Russia Resumes Strategic Bomber Flights

After 15 years Russia has resumed its strategic long range bomber flights. The last time Russia conducted these flights was in 1992, when a decision was then made to unilaterally end the flights.

"In 1992, Russia unilaterally ended flights by its strategic aircraft to distant military patrol areas. Unfortunately, our example was not followed by everyone. "Today, August 17 at 00:00 hours, 14 strategic bombers took to the air from seven airfields across the country, along with support and refueling aircraft," Putin said. A number of strategic bombers including Tu-160, Tu-95MS, and possibly Tu-22M3 bombers supported by Il-78 refueling aircraft conducted the patrol. The bases were the bombers took off from were Anadyr, Monchegorsk, Olen'ya, Vorkuta, Tiksi, Elgels and Shaikovka.

With the collapse of the Soviet Union, financial constraints caused the cancellation of the flights. Things however have changed a lot since 1992. Putin very strategically made the announcement at the end of the Peace Mission-2007 military maneuvers conducted by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

At this stage, the patrols do not appear to be carrying nuclear weapons, indicating the flights are more political in nature. Putin has cemented his image as the person who restored Russia to its glory days. In announcing the flights he has also sent a clear message that Russia intends to forward project its military strength in the coming years.



Brief on Russian Defence, Trade, Security and Energy