Tupolev Tu-22M: Soviet/Russian Swing-Wing Heavy Bomber

The Tu-22M is a Soviet-era supersonic bomber that was developed in the late 1960s to replace the Tu-22 Blinder. It was known as the Backfire in the West and was used in Cold War operations and hot wars, including the global war on terrorism. This book provides a detailed description of the Tu-22M's development, including its variants and operations, and includes fleet lists, design descriptions, and color profiles and line drawings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2022
Publisher: Schiffer Publishing Ltd

The Tu-22M, a remarkable Soviet supersonic bomber, holds a unique place in aviation history as the sole English-language book in print dedicated to this formidable aircraft. Developed in the late 1960s by the legendary Andrey Tupolev, the patriarch of Soviet aircraft design, the Tu-22M was intended to replace the aging Tu-22 Blinder with a more cost-effective and less capable alternative to the Sukhoi design bureau's proposed T-4 strategic bomber. Tupolev cleverly presented the Tu-22M as a significant upgrade of the Blinder, rather than an entirely new aircraft. This led to the birth of the Tu-22M, Tupolev's pioneering aircraft featuring variable swept wings and the capability to carry both bombs and supersonic cruise missiles.

In the West, the Tu-22M was affectionately known as the "Backfire." The aircraft made its maiden flight in 1969 and entered production in 1972. The most widely used version was the Tu-22M3, which remains in service with the Russian air force to this day. The Backfire has had an illustrious career spanning both Cold War operations and hot wars, from Afghanistan to Syria, where it has actively contributed to the global war on terrorism.

This book delves into the comprehensive development of the Tu-22M, encompassing its latest upgrades and operations during the Soviet and post-Soviet eras. Fleet lists, detailed design descriptions, and a plethora of color profiles and line drawings are provided to enhance the reader's understanding of this remarkable aircraft. Yefim Gordon, an accomplished aviation journalist and photographer, has dedicated more than 40 years to researching Soviet/Russian aviation history. He has authored and coauthored numerous books on the subject, contributing significantly to our understanding of the Tu-22M and other Soviet/Russian aircraft. Dmitriy Komissarov, another renowned aviation expert, has translated or authored/coauthored numerous books on Soviet/Russian aircraft and has also written numerous features for Russian and foreign aviation magazines.

The Tu-22M's legacy continues to be felt today, as it remains a symbol of Soviet aviation prowess and innovation. Its versatile capabilities and enduring presence in various conflicts have solidified its status as a legendary aircraft. This book serves as a valuable resource for enthusiasts, historians, and aviation professionals alike, offering a comprehensive and captivating account of the Tu-22M's development and operational history.

Weight: 1890g
Dimension: 227 x 287 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780764363542