Russia will deploy a new-generation strategic bomber, based on stealth technology between 2025-2030, as part of the air force’s modernisation process.
Russian long-range aviation commander Major-General Anatoly Zhikharev said the research and design work to develop the new-generation strategic bomber had already begun, according to Itar-Tass news agency.
With superior combat and take-off capabilities, the new strategic bomber will replace the Tu-95MS, the Tu-160, and long-range Tu-22M3 strategic bombers, which are currently used by the air force.
As part of its modernisation process, the air force will also update 30% of its aircraft, part of strategic aviation, by 2015.
In the end of December 2009, the president of Russian aircraft manufacturer Alexander Bobryshev said that Russia will develop a new-generation Tu strategic bomber by 2017.