Designed from the earlier swept-wing Tu-22 bomber, the Tu-22M was built with variable-geometry wings, revised engine air intakes similar to those found on fighter aircraft, and was first flown in 1975 as the Tu-22M-2.
The Tu-22M-3 which is still in production can carry up to six Kh-15 missiles housed on a rotary launcher in the weapons bay, two Kh-22 missiles beneath the fuselage, as well two Kh-22 or four Kh-15 missiles mounted underwing.
Approximately 280 of the type are in service, with most in operation with the Russian navy as maritime patrol aircraft.

Prime contractor: Tupolev Design Bureau
Nation of origin: Soviet Union

Function: Bomber
Crew: 4
Year: 1970
In-service year: 1975

Engine: Two Kuznetsov NK-25 afterburning turbofans, 55,115 lb thrust each

Dimensions
Wing span:
Fully spread - 34.28 m / 112 ft 6 in
Fully swept - 23.3 m / 76 ft 6 in
Length: 42.46 m / 139 ft 4 in
Height: 11.05 m / 36 ft 3 in

Weight: 119,048 lb empty / 278,660 lb max. take off
Ceiling: 43,635 ft
Speed:

@ high altitude: 2,000 km/h / 1,242 mph

@ low altitude: 1,050 km/h / 652 mph
Range: 12,000 km / 7,456 miles

Armament: One GSh-23 23mm twin-barrel cannon, plus 52,910 lb including Kh-15P SRAMs, Kh-22/27 ASMs, bombs, and sea mines

Current available pictures:

(1024x453 - 85K)

(700x355 - 46K)

(800x367 - 36K)

(1024x365 - 76K)

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