Medium bomber Tu-22M

Tu-22M4 and Tu-22M5

... It is also reported on the modernization of long-range bomber Tu-22M3, which was also carried out on the 360-meter repair plant. The new version of the aircraft is named the Tu-22M5.It can carry four X-101 or 6-8 X-555 and X-65, but his main weapon will remain supersonic missiles, air-to-earth. " We are primarily talking about the upgraded X-22, various versions of which are in service since 1964, New X-32 rocket, developed by HPO "Rainbow" as the X-22 will be equipped with advanced engine and homing.

... Command of the Russian Air Force plans until 2005 to retire the Tu-95MS bombers, and possibly also the Tu-160, due to problems in its operation. Their tasks will take the 196 medium bombers Tu-22M3. These aircraft will be modernized under the program TU 245. Finally, in the long-term planning continues to be a bomber Sukhoi T-60S, which is a work hindered the constant lack of funds.

Tu 245 came in response to demands issued in 1983 to replace the Tu-22M3. This project was started in two directions, one of which must lead to a new version of the Tu-22M - Tu-22M4, and the second to the T-60C, which was developed to replace the Tu-22M and Su-24 - tactical attack aircraft medium-range missiles. A prototype of the Tu-22M4 was completed in 1990, but lack of funds has run it into production at the Tupolev factory in Kazan. Instead, in 1997, it was decided to conduct a thorough upgrading of currently Tu-22M3 in the version of Tu-22M5 , Tu untitled later 245.

New Bekfayr will be equipped with an automatic flight control at low altitude with the radar tracking of the terrain - something that was missing earlier drafts Bekfayra. This will significantly improve its capabilities. TU 245 will be equipped with new radar and navigation system and is armed with a new offensive missile, developed specifically for him. Modernization of the fuselage and the engines probably will not.

A key feature of the TU 245 will have a new weapon system. X-22, even though it is a very powerful weapon, is not popular because of its liquid rocket engine, not just to create problems.That can carry 245 CD X-55 and X-65, using their long distance run or use a flight at low altitude with rounding terrain to penetrate enemy airspace. In addition to the X-55 and X-65 has long been developing a new missile - the X-101. It will be an analogue of the American CD AGM-129 - discreet long-range cruise missile designed for incurring a nuclear or conventional warheads. Tu 245 can carry four X-101.

"Bekfayr ( Backfire). Breakthrough of the unknown.
 

V. Markovski, "AeroHobbi" 1993 № 1 (3).

This aircraft is well known not only in our country but throughout the world. Immediately after the appearance he has occupied a place on the front pages of foreign publications, was in the Guinness World Records, became the subject of diplomatic disputes. His popularity could not prevent even the veil of secrecy. Compete with him in the fame could perhaps that the MiG-25.However, until recently in the national press, at best, only a mention of its existence, and only now can we talk about the history and evolution of the famous "Bekfayra" - driving a supersonic bomber Tu-22M.
Editorial Board expresses its appreciation to the head of the Kiev Institute of the Air Force, Professor, Major General Aviation Gulyaev VV, his staff, and Major General Aviation Konstantinov VL for their assistance.
 

ORIGINS

Requirements to develop a new long-range supersonic bomber, the Air Force were issued in 1962, shortly after adopting a long-range aircraft (DA) Tu-22. Tupolev elegant machine that combines the latest advances in aerodynamics, technology and the most modern equipment, was created under the influence of postwar race for speed, which was considered a decisive factor in ensuring the high combat effectiveness. It is a supersonic speed aircraft, armed with nuclear bombs and long-range missiles, was to ensure that irresistible impact.
According to this concept in the design of the Tu-22 was all aimed at achieving high speed and altitude: a thin swept wing, a fuselage with a small midsection, executed by the rule of areas for reduction. resistance on the trans-and supersonic speed, placement of weapons in internal bomb bay. Then it seemed irrelevant that the suit had to sacrifice a large velocity range, handling and landing characteristics of aircraft. For basing the Tu-22 required airfields Class 1 with concrete runways at least 2700 m. The complexity of piloting the "volatile" aircraft, poor visibility from the cockpit and a large landing speed (up to 310 km / h) were the causes of high accident on landing.On the flight range and weapons (only one cruise missile Kh-22) Tu-22 was inferior even to his predecessor, Tu-16.
Design features of the Tu-22 led to its other disadvantages associated with maintenance.Operational suitability - one of the most important conditions for alerting the plane - was quite low. Dense arrangement of machinery and equipment made it difficult tehpersonalu access, and maintenance and replacement vysokoraspolozhennyh engines using bulky ladders required by technicians acrobatic dexterity. Large landing speed led to a rapid deterioration of rubber wheels.
Assigned resource Tu-22 in the development has been defined in the 7 years of operation, or 1000 crops, but the obsolescence of the aircraft faster than the physical. Shortcomings of the concept of a supersonic high-altitude bomber was so obvious that in some shelves YES, have new cars, was held "revooruzhenie" by Tu-16 with modified missile systems.
One of the main incentives for the development of aviation has always been the improvement of air defense systems. Large. Altitude Tu-22 only makes it easy to detect radar and the new anti-aircraft missiles could reach the enemy at all altitudes and speeds. Heavy bombers were especially vulnerable to air defense, and this caused the collapse works created in the KB Myasischev supersonic M-50 and later - and the failures announced in 1962, the competition for heavy long-range bomber is a new generation. Work begun in KB Tupolev, Yakovlev and Sukhoi, led to the aircraft, "100" (T-4), but "a long duration flight with a high supersonic speeds (as required by conditions of competition) is not satisfied with the changed conditions. Was noticeably influence market conditions. The development of missile technology, automation and electronics, development of nuclear weapons led to the adoption in the late 50's ballistic missiles.The widespread fascination with them, often bore the amateurish nature, has led to the fact that manned aircraft was deemed hopeless.
The doctrine of "nuclear and missile nature of modern warfare", involves nuclear strikes, even for tactical purposes, quickly found its weaknesses. In numerous armed conflicts 60 - 70 years of aviation has demonstrated its unquestionable advantages. A variety of tasks, accounted for the formation of military policy, required the balance of the armed forces. Under these conditions, medium bombers, with a broad range of capabilities - long range, powerful weaponry, the perfect electronic equipment - have confirmed their right to exist.
In Western Europe, they have however not taken root. In the European theater of operations they simply had nowhere to turn: the saturation of the area air defense made a successful application of large aircraft is unlikely, and the short distances and consequently low flight time of the defeat made it difficult to conclude airfield aeronautical engineering from the blow. Furthermore, the fact an important role in the rejection of a purely bombers have played a limited economic resources of West African States.
 

"Modernization" of the Tu-22

Low possibility of Tu-22 bomber as a long demanded a more sophisticated machine. With the completion in 1964, a short period of uncertainty in the development of manned aircraft, attached to the name and categorically judgments NS.Hruscheva, working on a new car turned into full force. Design aircraft preceded the implementation of a large amount of research involved in developing the concept of prospective bomber.
In accordance with the technical requirements of future aircraft was supposed to have range of at least 5000 km, up to M = 2 at high altitudes, the possibility to fly at low altitudes with a transonic speed at breakthrough of enemy air defense, combat load of 20 tons, which included long-range cruise missiles, conventional and nuclear bombs, as well as the possibility of basing on the field aerodromes. The latter requirement is particularly important - it is obvious that in case of military conflict, major air bases and tied them combat aircraft exposed to impact in the first place.Chances of survival in these conditions possessed a machine adapted for use with alternate aerodromes limited size.
Jobs put before the designers seemed to be incompatible. On the one hand, to achieve high speeds at the break defense and striking increase in the sweep, and provided specific
Slat Tu-22M in vypushennom position
The best solution was found using a variable sweep wing, has an optimal performance in a wide range of flight regimes. Although such a scheme, in addition to benefits, entailed a more complex structure, the increase in weight and value for long-range bomber wing sweep was "made-to-measure." In addition to providing a good landing characteristics, it gave an opportunity to increase payload and range at cruising. Reduced sensitivity of the aircraft to atmospheric turbulence with folded wings simplified piloting and reduces fatigue of crews during flights at low altitudes.
Positive role in the fate of the draft proposed by Tupolev, played a popular idea in the variable geometry wing, "the Office of the customer" - Air Force General Headquarters and the personal support of the Air Force Commander PS Kutahova. Belief in such a radical decision was so great that the modernization of the fleet of the country only a military transport aircraft has remained aloof from the "mainstream".
Support for the Air Force was instrumental in the development of aircraft (as we know, who pays - the piper calls the tune). The establishment and funding of new models of aircraft in the Soviet Union could be initiated only decision of the governing bodies of the Party and government, with suspicion by the news that are in production of Tu-22 obsolete by the time of adopting. More memorable were the echoes of the recent "raketizatsii and disputes about the withering away of manned aircraft. Therefore, between the Tupolev Design Bureau and the employer had agreed that work on a new bomber and funding of this theme will be carried out within the framework of modernization of the Tu-22 Tu-22M cipher.
Tupolev firm on the project has received the designation "AM", the lead designer on it was named DS Markov. The contours of the new aircraft determined at once. Brigade common species linked the conflicting interests of aerodynamics, prochnistov and designers. Rather quickly had to abandon attempts to circumvent the "little blood" - equipped with the usual wing Tu-22 rotary consoles. Considered such a scheme and a T-shaped assembly. Then there were designers on the Kuhlmann sketches aircraft with engines in the fuselage and the intakes on the wing (like the Tu-128). Ultimately, for layout reasons and recommendations TsAGI adopted the most advanced version of the lifting fuselage, low-wing and side air intakes.
When you create an "AM" much has been done before. Particular attention was paid to design the rotary wing - the basis of the entire project. The location of the hinge rotation consoles and the ratio of the areas of mobile and fixed-wing was chosen such as to change the sweep led to a shift in the center of pressure (and the alignment of the aircraft) is no more than 2%. In this case, the aircraft maintained a sufficient margin of stability at all flight regimes. A wide range of tasks and their corresponding aircraft configuration for the choice of four fixed values ​​of wing sweep: 20 ° - takeoff and landing, 30 ° - climb and long cruising flight at subsonic speed, 50 ° - a flight with a transonic speeds at low altitude, 60 ° - supersonic flight with the maximum velocity head.
Turn of the consoles by two hydraulic motors with screw transducers for increased reliability is powered by two independent hydraulic systems. Agreed deviation consoles to equal the angle which provides a relatively simple and reliable way: located in the center section motors are interconnected shaft synchronization with cardan joints envelope bomb bay. This mechanism is keep working even in case of failure of one of the hydraulic system. When you change the sweep from 60 ° to 20 ° relative thickness of the console increased from 6 to 12%, the area has increased by 22 square meters. m and almost tripled - elongation of the wing. This improves the load-bearing properties of the wing, favored the unseparated flow at high angles of attack and increased the effectiveness of the runway mechanization (two-slotted flaps and retractable slat on the consoles, as well as powerful flaps to the center section). Aileron wing did not have - roll control was carried out spoilers.
Variable geometry wing fit in constructive power circuit bomber. Loads of consoles perceived articulated nodes, built-in power center-frame and associated with strong frames and beams, okantovyvayuschimi bomb bay. Root triangle formed by the spars and center-side rib, was used to house the main landing gear in the retracted position, thus abandon the traditional scheme Tupolev harvesting them in wing nacelles. New design and kinematics of the landing gear were tested on the flying stand - Tu-22 pilot.
To be able to land on. unpaved airfields axle bogie main landing gear had a sliding middle pair of wheels. In the tail of the plane found a bulky container drag chute and landing hook, for use at aerodromes which dispersal was supposed to deploy arrester. For take-off from short runways on aircraft could be suspended starting rocket boosters.
Placing the engines in the fuselage simplifies their maintenance and replacement, but has caused many problems with the device of air channels, the envelope bomb bay and niches main landing gear. Channels along the length of the Tu-22M was a kind of record. Balances and blowdown in the wind tunnel of TsAGI showed that total pressure losses in these channels is considerable, and with the possibility of conversion in the future they were made in separate sections, which could be extracted from the fuselage for a replacement. To ensure sufficient air flow through the engine on the ground and low speeds on each side of the fuselage windows were provided additional air intake, closing doors in flight.
Setup and installation of engines and build the aircraft in general decreased effectiveness of the vertical stabilizer. Purge showed that at high angles of attack it is shaded and center-wide fuselage. To resolve this problem want to install a powerful forkilya, the internal volume of which were used for the placement of units and equipment. It should be noted that the Tupolev firm keel is usually called a detachable part of the vertical fin and the developers are proud of "small fin" of his creation.
In the design of the Tu-22M flight range to give priority to (Air Force requirements called for the creation of meaningful long-range bomber). Along with the tricks aerodynamics, weight improved airframe and installing efficient engines NK-22 (augmented power 22,000 kg), measures were taken to increase the supply of fuel on board. To accommodate all the reserves were used glider.Apart from the fuselage tanks, fuel poured into the caisson and the center-wing panel, connected by pipelines with leak-proof hinged joints, as well as tanks forkilya. Was provided and the ability to refuel aircraft in the air by means of "tube-cone-rod."
Thick design aircraft forced to refuse the usual device cab and put the crew in pairs (two pilots in the front cockpit, the navigator / navigator and the navigator / weapons systems operator at the rear), with access through individual hatches on top. Nevertheless, taking into account the wishes of the pilots (on the Tu-22, they complained about the trouble and inconvenience of jobs), cabins were performed reasonably spacious, and glazing provides an excellent overview. It is curious that the prototyping stage of glass area even had to reduce some - for the normal operation of the display screen demanded the effect of "dark room". To rescue the pilots during emergency ejection Tupolev developed ejection seats CT-1, providing ejection with zero height to a practical ceiling at a minimum speed of 130 km / h (system rescue Tu-22 was useless at altitudes below 250 m).
"Modernization of Tu-22 went so far as to design an aircraft used only the front landing gear and bomb bay doors predecessor.
 

DEBUT
 

By early 1969 the first prototype Tu-22M was built and delivered to the airfield FRI test. In the assembly shop was already the second plane, the third machine was designed for static testing.The first flight of the Tu-22M in the summer of 1969 in air prototypes raised distinguished test pilot Boris Veremey, V. Borisov, A. Bessonov. The novelty of the aircraft and a large amount of necessary test - finishing work led to the solution to their acceleration, in addition to two built aircraft, to bring to trial a series of combat tests of the 10 bombers (typically for large aircraft experienced a series of limited 5-th machine).
Simultaneously, the aircraft factory number 22 in Kazan (Tupolev long "fiefdom") unfolded preparation for serial production of a new bomber - "articles 45-02. In order to establish production in Kazan left a group of designers of OKB. Production aircraft had a number of differences from the prototypes. Forkil, which continually "led" at high speed flight, was divided along its length into three parts dl 'compensation strain. Fairings chassis attachment points have been reduced, and during production declined and the sliding pair of wheels. Removed the brake parachute container along with the hook, the practicality of a car which more than 100 tons after the test was considered questionable. Place the container in the base of the keel took the universal feed plant UCF-9K-502 with two guns GS-23, designed to protect aircraft from attack from behind. Drag chute moved into a special compartment of the rear fuselage. Modified bomber got into the series name of Tu-22M2.
With regard to the artillery defensive armament of bombers the Air Force General technical requirements have been intransigent, at the beginning of the seventies value in the fight against enemy fighters, it is no longer represented. Cannon fodder to be used to install jamming homing missiles and enemy HP. For this, they fitted out protivoinfrakrasnymi (PICS) and anti (PRLS) projectiles. In the conduct of fire out of four barrels aft installation nachinyavshaya PRLS "noodles" chaff (metallized fiber) and a mixture of thermite PICS scattered, forming a solid wall bomber decoys. Provision is also shelling and ground targets with strafing. Gun mount had electrical power drives and could be induced to aim manually or automatically using radar and television sights. Equipping its aircraft has led to an increase in weight of 660 kg.
Seriously was strengthened, and the offensive power of the bomber. In the complex K-22 weapons he could carry up to three cruise missiles (a variant of reloading): one in the semi-flush position in the bomb bay and two on the underwing suspension. In addition to the 12,000 kg of bombs in the fuselage of Tu-22M2 could carry a bomb on an external sling in four bomb racks mnogozamkovyh MBDZ-U9-68. Maximum weight of combat stress discharged in this case reaches 21000 kg in a variety of options (in particular, up to 69 FAB-250, 42 FAB-500 or 8 FAB-1500 plus 2 FAB-3000).
Combat tests of Tu-22M2 were carried out in 185-m Poltava Guards tyazhelobombardirovochnom Regiment 13th Guards TBAD. commanded PS Deynekin.
Impact force Tu-22M2 has been effectively demonstrated by showing a new technology top military and party leadership in June 1971 Only one bomber brought down to the range of 20 tons of bombs, turning it into a medley tanks and armored personnel carriers, depicting a tank regiment on the march. Of powerful explosions "pyatisotok" flew all the windows in the pavilion, built for high-ranking guests. Flown by Tu-22M2 BG Submission has been awarded a handshake Leonid Brezhnev, who especially liked the plane that dropped in front of him a car bomb. For success in the development of new techniques BG Submissions (as he was the first drill pilot has mastered the Tu-22M2) was soon awarded the Red Star.
Refinement of the plane and demanded the removal of defects in time. Adopted a Tu-22M2 was adopted in 1976, new bomber caused the admiration of crews finally feel the pilots of modern aircraft (some of the Tu-16 by this time almost surpassed the age of their pilots). Rapid machine kept stable in the air, quickly gaining altitude, easy to operate and had excellent acceleration capabilities. Was highly appreciated by the view from the cockpit, on-board automatic control system (ACS), a modern sighting and navigation system (PRNK). Moreover, "two" was simply beautiful: "Fighter" contours, the long sleek nose, big-eyed "windows and aerodynamically clean wing to create a sense of grace and power. Completed the impression of a light gray color of the aircraft, its outlines blurred in flight, with white lower surface (the white color was adopted in our Air Force as an "atomic" - he was supposed to protect the aircraft from the flash explosion of atomic bombs dropped).
To the extent that the Tu-22M2 in shelves YES went retrain crews. Training of pilots Tu-22M2 was conducted at the training Tu-134UBL who had thrust-weight ratio similar to the bomber, and takeoff and landing characteristics. Equipment, it was consistent with the combat vehicle cabin, and inside the training room were navigators. This approach will significantly reduce the cost of training while reducing the accident rate. To preserve the resource standing on alert Tu-22M2, usually in the regiments was a squadron of Tu-16 to maintain the skills of piloting. In addition to the standard flight tasks in the plans of combat training, new, respond to increased opportunities aircraft: long-distance flights on the route using PRNK, refueling in the air (during a test flight of Tu-22M2 was in the air for more than 10 hours), flying at low altitudes , including at transonic speeds, working out of the use of guided weapons.
In Naval Aviation Tu-22M2 has replaced the Tu-16 in a number of regiments of the Northern and Black Sea fleets. Long range, the ability to secretly sneak to the enemy at a low altitude and powerful weapons made him a formidable force in the fight against a potential enemy aircraft carrier connections, is considered the primary goal of the sea. In full compliance with U.S. views on the aircraft carrier groups, as the main striking force of the fleet (and without them we do) all the major weapons systems of the Soviet Navy and Marine aircraft were evaluated primarily in terms of possible damage "targets such as aircraft carrier, or at least Finally, a heavy cruiser.Military dispositions of naval aviation when you hit the surface ships (usually seven Tu-22M2) were formed specifically for the probability that the destruction of an aircraft carrier at least seven planes of this type. To enhance the combat efficiency, they struck a blow in conjunction with the aircraft - sighting and jammers. Tests showed that one missile hit the X-22 to board the ship the target forms a hole area of ​​more than 20 square meters. m, burning internal compartments of the cumulative jet at a depth of 12 m. Sea "two" could be held for the installation of mine fields in the ways of the enemy convoys.
 

IN THE RANKS
 

The appearance of the Tu-22M tried to conceal from satellite and aerial reconnaissance. For the sake of this aircraft, parked, were instructed to fold the wings for their resemblance to the Tu-22, and forgetful crews often received "on the cap" for neglect of these measures.
Nevertheless, U.S. intelligence assets have recorded the existence of a new bomber in autumn 1969 in July 1970 with reconnaissance satellite made its first pictures at the factory airfield in Kazan. The plane was clearly identified as a long-range bomber, which has variable geometry wing and two engines. He was given the name "Bekfayr" (Backfire), which translated means "backfire". It is not necessary to look at the word of some hidden meaning. In accordance with the classification of the NATO (and the pathological secrecy of the true name) Soviet planes were obtained in the West, code names, simplifying their identification, so for the bombers was to begin the name parameter in the letter - Bomber. The name "Bekfayr" and stuck with us - it was much easier and more euphonious than "Two-twenty-two-uh-two". Due to the lack of reliable information about the aircraft information about him and his image is included in foreign publications to the field of speculations and myths. Reported the appearance of "Bekfayrov on Cuban airfields to" Arctic bases, through the pages of magazines roamed the ugly pictures.structures resembling the trunk of kutsymi wings. Speculation on this topic continued to fall in 1976, when the "tourist" from Germany managed to photograph "Bekfayr" at Poltava airfield.Then he got in the Guinness Book of Records as the fastest bomber. "
A period of détente between the USSR and the United States even more fueled interest in "Bekfayru. The existence of such a powerful bomber could not be discussed in the negotiations on the SALT-2. The Americans insisted that "Bekfayr is a strategic bomber comparable to V-1, as the Soviets refer it to the medium-range weapons along with the Tu-16 and Tu-22 go beyond the treaty. U.S. Senate to hold special hearings on this issue, and the newspaper "Izvestia" in their publications shamefully called him "the plane, called the West" Bekfayr. E eventually agreed to consider strategic bombers have intercontinental range (6000 km), and in respect of Tu-22M2 compromise was reached - a limitation treaty, he got only partial: on all machines of this type were dismantled boom refueling, the issue of Bekfayrov "is limited to 30 cars a year, and the total number - 400 units. Nonetheless, all produced by" Bekfayry "continued properly completed refueling boom, which if necessary a few hours could be installed on an aircraft. It is fair to say that the fears of Americans have been exaggerated: the number of special tanker planes and ZMS2 ZMN2 in our Air Force did not exceed 50 and Tu-16 - and the fact smaller, which could not provide the massive use of the Tu-22M2 for strategic purposes.
The appearance of the Tu-22M2 "in public" was held in autumn 1980 in the course of large-scale exercises, "Brotherhood in Arms - 80". "Bekfayry, rising from Belarusian bases, blocked the Baltic straits mine productions and supported amphibious landings. Cover their MiG-23 could not keep up with the rushed to the attack bombers, which went with a full combat load.
However, achieving high alert Tu-22M2 prevented a number of deficiencies identified by combatant units. Design complexity, and not always competent operation led to what at one time the Tu-22M2 led the Air Force in the number of failures, earning a sharp tongue airmen nicknamed "all-weather defektonosets. Small engine life (the first cars did not exceed 50 hours) made to restrict the temperature of the turbine and hence thrust. There were vibrations and damage engines. Capricious proved oil and hydraulic systems, in which there were leaks, after which technicians had to scour the entire tail of the aircraft with rags.
The plane is not very fond of high-speed flight at low altitudes, while falling out rivets in air and appeared fatigue cracks in the structure. After a set of improvements and strengthening the airframe, many of these defects could eliminate.
"Bringing to mind" and had radio equipment, not always reliably works for an ill-EMC hardware (EMC) - problems and still understudied. When denial ACS airmen had to pull the plane back home "on his hands." Chairs crew were not very comfortable. Plumbing equipment enclosures, consisting of original medical devices like "duck" was not very practical, and long flights there have been instances of using the secret of navigation maps for other purposes. "
Unpleasant feature was ventral suspension rocket. To assistant commander can remove or landing gear, the navigator-operator in another cab (!) - I had to make sure that the rocket is cruising in the retracted position. When inconsistency of their actions happened that folds chassis crushes fender flares and had to send in for repair.

FURTHER IMPROVEMENT
 

To improve supersonic performance in a serial production of Tu-22M2 changed the profiles of the wing and stabilizer, bringing them to the supercritical - with a flattened top surface (lower for the stabilizer) and bent down (up) the back. Pitted sock wing improved the load-bearing properties and stability of the aircraft at high angles of attack.
Milestone in improving the aircraft was a proposal to build a new NK-25 with a thrust in afterburner 25,000 kgs, demanded in turn install shovels air intakes. Such an input device combined with compression can increase the volume passing through the engine air at lower input resistance and total pressure losses. Moved forward upper edge of the inlet creates extra lift and increases the inlet section during flight at high angles of attack, when the speed is low and the required air flow is great. The results of studies in TsAGI and CIAM tests confirmed a flying laboratory, built on the basis of the serial Ty-22M2. "Scoops" for a relatively simple design proved to be very effective and ensured stable operation of the engine.
Modernization of aircraft accompanied the struggle for relief designs. To this end, the Bureau had established an award for each kilogram of weight removed. Consistent "licking" succeeded in reducing the weight of the aircraft for a total of nearly three tons for this, for example, have removed one of the cannon fodder. In combination with more powerful engines, these measures helped to increase the bomb load of up to 24000 kg. To increase the maximum speed of the sweep of consoles have brought to 65 degrees. (At first to conceal the possibilities Never let an aircraft wing in this position on the ground). Nose, which establishes a new radar and radio equipment was rearranged for easier operation.
In 1983 a modified Tu-22M3 (product 45-03) was accepted for service. The first new type of car did the same 185-th Guards TBAP, which had the greatest experience of exploitation "Bekfayrov. "Troika", delivered from the "childhood diseases" predecessor, well established in parts of remote and naval aviation. Opportunities aircraft further expand its use improvement tactics: covert flight at extremely low altitudes (about 50 m) high-speed throws to the target, pointing to the Victim object with airborne early warning aircraft A-50, interaction with the airborne command post and recruited for support MiG-31 and Su-27.
Endurance troika confirmed an unusual incident happened in September 1986 have landing bomber suddenly cleared the flaps and slats. The plane immediately failed and literally fell to tridtsatimetrovoy height in the area near the drive, but it was piloted by BG Submission (by this time, Lieutenant Colonel) had to give afterburner engines, and the car, leaving the land of hundred-meter track, once again gone to heaven . After replacing crumpled on impact wing, half of the stabilizer and the landing gear machine back in operation.
During the proceedings in the design of the Tu-22M3 continued to change: there were not removed Effective spoilers on the central, streamlined aft gun mount, devoid of guidance on the horizon, two additional host external load on the wing, modified and navigation equipment. At one of the machines were installed standardized ejection seats K-36D, to compel an individual or rescue crew members at all speeds and altitudes. At their backs in what was supposed to build in massagers, reducing fatigue during long flights, the pilots, but the series continued bomber equipped with seating KT-1.
Undergone modernization and armament of the aircraft. By early 80's X-22 rocket, which were created more for the Tu-22, pretty outdated. They were heavy (weight 5800 kg), had insufficient accuracy of entry and could be applied only for large and well-marked radar-contrast targets.Filling missiles corrosive and toxic fuel and oxidizer did their operation difficult, time consuming and does not allow you to store rockets in running condition. There is a paradoxical situation: the Tu-1NT-26 with missiles DAC-5 had a large impact force than the Tu-22MZ, armed with the Kh-22.
Creation of new cruise missiles allowed to rectify the situation. In the modified bomb bay Tu-22MZ on the drum kit placed six missiles X-15, with supersonic speed and range to 300 km.Another four rockets at the aircraft can carry under-wing sites that are suitable for suspension mnogozamkovyh bomb racks (MBD).
Disadvantages of the REB continue to be a sore spot "Bekfayra. All attempts to install on board the station, "Ural" and "Bouquet" failed: the low level of domestic electronics, and the already mentioned problems of EMC invariably leads to failure of equipment. Output was to be the creation of a special jammer on the basis of the Tu-22MZ, intended for operation as part of battle groups. However, today's problems have forced confine the construction of a prototype of a promising car (before the same fate befell the Il-76PP, also destined for the conduct of electronic warfare. As a result Bekfayry "still go on the attack under the cover of the Tu-16P 1962" the year of birth. "
 

MILITARY APPLICATIONS

Tu-22M2 and Tu-22MZ used in combat operations in Afghanistan. The need for strong support from the air occurred during held in December 1987 - January 1988. surgery to unblock the Mujahideen surrounded by a host for suppressing the resistance of armed opposition groups in a completely controlled by their provincial forces tactical aircraft were not enough, and from Poltava to the airfield Mary (Turkmenistan) were quickly deployed two squadrons of Tu-22M2.They applied bombing bases, warehouses and strengthen the mujahideen.
"Bekfayram" had to bail out and surrounded by one of the gorges of the group of Soviet troops.For drawing a massive bombing attack was performed in one gulp, at a signal long-range navigation system, leaving the target a broad front across the canyon. In this case, the positions and firing points of the enemy at the same time hit by up to 200 tons of bombs. The accuracy of discharge fugasok while was about 100 meters (less than one percent of the flight altitude).
Re long-range bombers appeared over Afghanistan in October 1988 for the commencement of the withdrawal of Soviet troops, in addition to front-line aircraft and military aviation, and sixteen were involved Tu-22MZ. To prevent attacks on the outgoing column and eliminate even the possibility of preparing such attacks, the intensity and number of sorties dropped bombs reached an unprecedented level. "Troika" with full bomb load attacked in groups of 12-16 planes simultaneously. Bombings were not just areas of concentration and the base of Mujahideen, but the mountain passes and approaches to roads, which was the withdrawal of troops. Breaks powerful fugasok caused landslides in the mountains and made these areas impassable. In the early raids were used mainly "pyatisotki" and then it went heavy FAB-1500 FAB-3000. On impressions of eyewitnesses, after the raids YES mountains turned into the valley. "
Departures did not stop at night, not allowing enemy troops to focus and prepare for an attack, tearing approach convoys of weapons and communications. Night bombing was carried out at high altitudes on RSDN, and in a vulgar nature. They are not very accurate, and if one of these bombs had been almost completely destroyed the city of Herat. Recent bomb attacks Tu-22MZ completed in late January and the areas adjacent to the highway and tunnels in the southern Salang. For performing "tasks of the Party and government, many pilots and navigators were awarded orders and medals.
 

Today "BEKFAYRA"
 

In addition to the basic purpose "Bekfayry" have been used for research purposes and to develop new structural and aerodynamic solutions, equipment and weapons. One of the Tu-22MZ in 1991-92. used as a flying laboratory for joint experiments LII TsAGI for the Study of supersonic laminar flow, for which the wing mounted the samples airfoils.
Tu-22MZ used for testing systems and save the returned spacecraft. Solid overall and the weight mock satellite instrumentation and parachute system was required to throw off great heights at speeds up to M = 2, and Bekfayr "coped with this task well.
Recall the fate of some of the pilots, rises into the sky to "Bekfayre. PS Deynekin, one of the first to master a new car soon received appointment as commander of the Air Force, then yes, and finally became a Commander of the United Air Force. Division Commander 13th Guards TBAD L. Kozlov finished later Air Force Chief of Research and became widely known after the circumnavigation trip to "Ruslan" in 1990 on Tv-22M3 fly and current president of Chechnya, DM Dudayev.
There is an ongoing serial production of Tu-22MZ in Kazan, although the violation of economic ties since the Soviet collapse seriously hampers the rhythm of production. Tu-22M2 and M3 are the most massive machine YES (to the end of 1992, regiments in Russia, Belarus and Ukraine totaled 380 aircraft of this type).
Difficulties in the domestic aviation industry and the impact on readiness fleet of bombers. Among the major problems that put planes in the joke, PS called Deynekin production resource, short supply of spare parts and units, the weakening of ties with manufacturers. Ukraine, under whose jurisdiction has passed on its territory aircraft technician (Bekfayry "based in Poltava, Stryj, fun, and at aerodromes of the Republic of Crimea), in addition, due to lack of fuel forced to drastically reduce flights on aircraft of this type, and even consider the question of their conservation.
Perhaps, Tu-22MZ will be subject to export. In any case, Iran and China, preoccupied with modernizing its air force, recently expressed interest in acquiring "Bekfayrov.
According to the Russian Defense Minister P. Grachev, the priority in allocating funds for the defense will be to maintain combat readiness of the most sophisticated weapons, their modernization and future research. With changes in military policy, non-confrontation with the U.S. ballistic missile arsenal and reduce the role of aviation should further increase (which was confirmed by recent events in the Persian Gulf). Commissioning is planned to leave the 300 long-range bombers (the number of intercontinental Tu-95 and Tu-160 is negotiated separately, under the Treaty on Strategic Offensive Arms). The main ways of improving Tu-22M2/M3 were equipping them with modern sighting and navigation REO, means, electronic warfare and new weapons complexes, which include precision-guided weapons, and - responsive bombs and missiles autonomous guidance, which will located on duty Tu-22M2/M3 remain a powerful and effective weapon.

Literature
1. "The design of the aircraft, Moscow, Mashinostroenie, 1990.
2. E. Tsihosh "Supersonic Aircraft", Moscow, Mir, 1982.
3. «Jane's all the world's aircraft» 1976-77, 1990-91.
4. W. Kopenhagen «Sowjelskie Bombenflugrevqe», Berlin, Teanspress.
5. I. Krovlik, B. Puzicka «Vojenske rakety», Praha, Nase vojsko, 1986.
6. V. Nemecek «Vojenska letadla», Praha, Nase vojsko, 1983.
7. «Letectvi a kosmonautika», № 16, 1990.
8. «Air International» № 8, 1991.
9. "Wings of the Motherland» № November 1991, 5-6 1992.
10. "Aerospace» № August 1992.
11. Izvestia 26.06.1977, the
12. "Red Star" 09/20/1991, 12/22/1991, 10/04/1992, the
13. Proceedings of exhibitions and air shows:
- Zhukovsky Air Show-91, 18/08/1991, the
- Kubinka'92 11-12.04.92 city
- Mosaeroshou'92 11-16.08.92 city
- Farnboro'92 September 1992

 

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Tu-22MZ is an all-metal nizkoplan with variable sweep wing.
The wing consists of a fixed center section - the middle part of the wing (SCHK) and two rotating parts (NCHK) - consoles that have five fixed positions on the leading edge sweep angle: 20, 30, 50, 60 and 65 degrees. The angle of the cross "V" wing - 0 deg., Geometric angle of twist console - 4 deg. Sweep SCHK on the front edge - 56 deg. The central two-spar with a back wall and bearing skin panel. Swivel attached to the center-console with hinged nodes. Lift consists of a three-section slats and flaps dvuhshelevyh on consoles (the angle of release of 23 deg. - Takeoff and 40 degrees. - Planting) and rotating the flap on the center section. Provided lock release flap and slat angles swept more than 20 degrees. Console equipped with three-section spoilers for roll control (ailerons are absent). Turn of the consoles by hydraulic motors with ball screws converters interconnected shaft synchronization.
Semi-monocoque fuselage construction reinforced by longitudinal beams in the bomb bay area.Forward fuselage took radar and other electronic equipment, a niche nose landing gear and cockpit, the middle part - fuel tanks, niches main landing gear, air intake duct and the bomb bay, back - engine compartment and brake parachute.

Fuselage length 38.5 m.
Vertical tail consists of forkilya technologically weaning keel and rudder. Sweep of the keel on the front edge 57 grad.15 'area 32.98 square meters. m
Horizontal tail area of ​​61.7 square meters. m consists of two all-moving consoles with leading edge swept 59 degrees. 32 '. His scope of 11.26 meters console by steering transmission of RP-64.
Tricycle landing gear, the base chassis of 13.51 m, 7.30 m gauge nose strut with two wheels retracted back to the main landing-axle bogie - a wing and partly in the fuselage. Main landing wheels are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes and protivogazovym device.
The power plant consists of two turbojet engines with afterburner (turbofans) NC-25, developed and manufactured by EDO ND.Kuznetsova Samara Industrial Aviation "Trud". Maximum static thrust NC-25 - 14300 kg, max thrust in afterburner - 25000 kgs. In forkile placed auxiliary power unit TA-6, which provides start engines and power grids on Earth. Fuel (aviation kerosene TS-1, T-1 RT) is placed in the tanks of the fuselage, center consoles, and forkilya. It is possible to install in-flight refueling boom.
Equipment. Connectivity is provided by two commanding VHF P-832M, KB Radio P-846, by means of secret aeronautical communications (company and on-board intercom system STC-10. The composition of airborne PRNK consists of long-distance (RSDN) and near (RSBN), navigation, automatic direction finder ARC -15, radar sighting and navigation equipment (PNA). The aircraft is equipped with a landing system SP-50, two radio altimeter RV-18 and the station radar warning the enemy, "Sirena-3." crew report on deviations from normal flight conditions by verbal informant RI -65.
Weapons. Missile System K-22M, consisting of guided missiles X-22 and control system, designed to destroy large radar-contrast targets: ships, bridges, dams and others (in cases with a combined missile and autonomous guidance), and air defense radar (in the form passive homing).The aircraft can carry up to three Kh-22 (reloading version). Launch mass X-22 is 5800 kg, range up to 500 km, the maximum flight speed of up to M = 4. The missile can be equipped with HE fragmentation, cumulative or nuclear warhead.
Bomb weapons (nuclear and conventional bombs of different types) is placed in an internal bomb bay to the holders of CD-3-22P and CD-4-105A (bombs caliber up to 3000 kg) and external bomb racks mnogozamkovyh MBDZ-U9-68, each of which can carry 9 bombs caliber up to 500 kg. In the bomb bay of aircraft possible suspension of sea mines. Maximum weapons load of 24,000 kg in various ways, including mixed (bombs and missiles).
Upgraded weapons complex includes a multiply-ejection unit (ISU) drum of 6 cruise missiles X-15 in the bomb bay and four underwing suspension brackets missiles.
Defensive, weapons Tu-22MZ consists of a universal feed installation UK-9A-802 with dvuhstvolnoy GSh-23. Firing guns and 4000 rounds per minute. Guidance can be done remotely using a radar and TV sights.

Basic aircraft performance data of Tu-22M3.

Wingspan 23.30 m - 34.28 m
Aircraft length 42.16 m
Height of aircraft parking 11.05 m
Wing Area 175.78 sq ft - 183.58 sq ft 
Maximum takeoff weight of 124,000 kg
Maximum landing weight of 88,000 kg
Maximum speed 2300 km / h
Cruising speed 900 km / h
Take-off speed of 370 km / h
Landing speed 285 km / h
Run is 2100 m
Mileage 1300 m
Service ceiling 13,300 m
Combat radius with one X-22 2200 km