Russian press reports that two Tu-160 bombers flew from their permanent base in Engels to Ukrainka in the Far East. The bombers will take part in the "Krylo-2007" ("Wing-2007") exercise of the rear service. It is not clear if the Tu-95MS bombers based in Ukrainka are taking part in the exercise.
The book
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Pavel:
Any follow-up information on new Tu-160 construction? I’ve speculated that any “new” Blackjack bombers to be delivered to the 37th Air Army are only pre-existing test aircraft and such that have been rebuilt for operational use. I continue to doubt any new “nuts & bolt” construction for the Tu-160 but respect any contrary opinions.
By the way, did you catch Hans Kristensen article on the removal of US B-61 nuclear bombs from Germany? As we discussed last year, I think the day of American nuclear weapons in Europe is coming to an end. I wouldn’t expect a big policy announcement out of Washington or Brussels, just these weapons slowly fading away to surplus. I suspect this decision has been long made.
Frank Shuler
USA
No, I haven't heard anything about new Tu-160.