Russia's 'Steel Monster' Equipped with New Strategic Missiles

May 10, Russian newspaperIzvestia posted:The Tu-95MS long-range strategic bomber (NATO name Bear or Steel Monster) of the Russian Air Force has been upgraded to be equipped with the X-101 long-range strategic cruise missile.

Although there was information about the upgrade package, actual images of the upgraded Tu-95MS aircraft were directly observed by reporters and military experts during the parade celebrating the 71st anniversary of the victory over fascism on Red Square on May 9.

“Foreign military attaches attending the parade could easily recognize the X-101 missiles hanging under the wings of the Tu-95MS. This long-range bomber is designed to carry up to 16 strategic missiles,” the Izvestia newspaper reported.

Tu-95MS bomber.

X-101 cruise missile.

“Today (May 9), we had the opportunity to witness the upgraded version of the Tu-95MS aircraft firsthand. The combat capabilities of the upgraded bomber have been raised to a new level,” said Russian Air Force leader Pior Deinekin. According to him, the upgraded Tu-95MS has three major differences compared to the standard version, but did not disclose details.

According to public information, the X-101 missile is larger and heavier than the standard missile equipped on the Tu-95MS aircraft. To carry the new missile, the Tu-95MS will have to modify the missile compartment in the body, as well as the missile's positioning and guidance systems. The X-101 missile weighs about 2.6 tons; has a range of 4,500 km and a cruise speed of 1,000 km/h. The Russian Air Force has used this modern missile in airstrikes against positions of the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) in Syria.

Currently, the X-101 missile is standard equipment on the Tu-160 long-range bomber.

According to qdnd.vn/TASS