In NATO it is called "Black Jack", in the US - "Air terminator". And only Russians affectionately say "White Swan".
Behind the outward grace of the Tu-160, a supersonic strategic missile-carrying bomber, lies a tough character. Tu-160 is the main air defender of Russia. Its wingspan is half a football field, its height is almost the size of a three-story building, and its weight is 275 tons. The technical characteristics are also amazing. The Tu-160 is the fastest supersonic bomber in Russia, capable of carrying 45 tons of missiles and nuclear bombs. This is a world record.
The aircraft design is unique. The main feature is a wing with variable geometry, which allows for rapid takeoff due to the maximum wingspan. It only needs 2 kilometers to accelerate. And during the flight, the wings are already pressed against the fuselage, which reduces aerodynamic drag and allows for supersonic flight.
Collect "White Swans" in Kazan. Each Tu-160 has its own character and its own name: Ilya Muromets, Valery Chkalov, Vitaly Kopylov. On account of the "White Swan" 44 world records. The latter was delivered in June 2010. Two bombers spent 24 hours in the air. Tu-160 flew almost 20 thousand kilometers and for the first time in the history of Russian long-range aviation they refueled twice in the sky. This plane is said to be ahead of its time.
