What is the Tupolev Tu-160M?

About Tupolev Tu-160M

• The Tu-160M, a modernized version of a Cold War-era bomber that the former Soviet Union would have deployed in the event of nuclear war to deliver weapons at long distances.
• It is a Russian supersonic variable-sweep wing strategic missile-carrying bomber.
• It is called "White Swan” in Russia, and is code-named “Blackjacks” by NATO.
• Russia claims it is the world’s fastest-flying supersonic and heaviest payload-carrying bomber.
• It is designed to hit targets in remote areas with nuclear and conventional weapons.
• Features:
  • o The Tu-160M, which has a crew of four, is capable of carrying 12 cruise missiles or 12 short-range nuclear missiles.
  • o It can fly 12,000 km (7,500 miles) non-stop without refueling.
  • o It is powered by four afterburning turbofan engines.
  • o It has a maximum speed of 2,220 kilometers per hour and ascends to heights of 16,000 meters. 
  • o It showcases features like an innovative navigation system, an upgraded radar, and even a refueling probe for in-flight refuelling, which further extends its range. 

Q1) What are cruise missiles?

Cruise missiles are unmanned vehicles that are propelled by jet engines, much like an airplane. They can be launched from ground, air, or sea platforms. Cruise missiles remain within the atmosphere for the duration of their flight and can fly as low as a few meters off the ground. Flying low to the surface of the earth expends more fuel but makes a cruise missile very difficult to detect. 

Source: Putin Boards Russian Nuclear Bomber; Inspects Cockpit As Moscow Upgrades TU-160M Bombers | Watch