Ukraine's air defence system has for the first time destroyed a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber carrying Kh-22 cruise missiles

The Ukrainian Air Force has for the first time destroyed a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber.

Here's What We Know

The information was shared by the Air Force Command. The operation was carried out jointly with the Main Directorate of Intelligence of Ukraine. The aircraft was destroyed by an anti-aircraft missile unit. By the way, according to the Air Force, Tu-22M3 is a carrier of cruise missiles Kh-22. Ukrainian air defence system also destroyed two missiles of this type for the first time. In addition, during the night from 18 to 19 April it managed to shoot down two Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles, 14 Shahed-131/136 strike UAVs, as well as 11 Kh-59/X-69 guided missiles.

Flashback

The Tu-22M3 is a Russian long-range supersonic bomber, which is a modification of the Tu-22M2. The aircraft was developed at the Tupolev Design Bureau and was produced from 1978 to 1993. Its length is 41.46 metres and its wingspan varies from 23.3 to 34.28 metres. The maximum takeoff weight is 126,000kg. The powerplant includes two NK-25 engines. The maximum speed is 2,300 km/h. The Tu-22M3 can carry nuclear weapons and has a combat radius of 2410 km.

Source: Air Force Command of UA Armed Forces / Air Force Command of UA Armed Forces