In view of the aggressive stance of Pakistan and China, India has made several arms deals with Russia. One of these deals is also about the Tu-160M bomber.
India-Russia Defence: In view of the aggressive stance of Pakistan and China on the border, India is engaged in strengthening its defence system. For this, India had made a deal with Russia for the most dangerous Tu-160M bomber. However, their delivery is getting delayed.
India had made a deal with Russia to lease the Tu-160M bomber ‘White Swan’. Along with this, there was also an agreement to equip it with the Indian Brahmos missile. However, due to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, its delivery is getting delayed. As soon as this bomber joins the Indian fleet, there will be increased tension on the border of Pakistan and China because this bomber is very dangerous and neither Pakistan nor China has a bomber that can match it.
Speed 2200 KM/Hour and Range 12000 KM
If we talk about its speed, the speed of Tu-160M is 2,200 km /h . Its range is 12,000 km, that too without refueling . Its payload capacity is 40 tonnes. It is used by the Russian army
The most important feature of this deal was the plan to integrate India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile with the Tu -160M . This would have given India the unique capability to launch the world’s fastest cruise missile from a state-of-the-art supersonic aircraft. The deal would also strengthen technology transfer , mission readiness and strategic self-reliance, which was in line with Prime Minister Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat defense strategy.
But why is the deal stuck now?
Russia now needs Tu-160Ms to maintain its strategic capabilities. The Kazan Aviation Plant, where these planes are manufactured, is now under tremendous pressure due to wartime demands and Western sanctions. Shortages of high-tech components and electronics have slowed production . Recent Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian airbases have shown that the Tu-160M has now become a core asset of Russian national security . In such a situation, Russia is now hesitant to give these aircraft even to a close partner like India.
Balance between America and Russia
India’s global outlook today is based on strategic balance . India maintains decades-old defence ties with Russia, but is also deeply connected with countries such as the US, France , Israel and Japan. In such a situation, acquiring a high- profile weapon like the Tu-160M from Russia could increase diplomatic tensions with Western countries. Especially at a time when Russia is struggling with Western pressure and sanctions.
Does the Air Force need long-range bombers ?
The Indian Air Force currently relies primarily on fighter aircraft (such as Su-30MKI, Rafale ) which are suitable for medium-range strike missions. However, the lack of long-range air strike capability is a flaw in the strategic balance. Aircraft like the TU-160M can strike deep into another country, without crossing its borders . Countries like the US, Russia and China already have long-term strategic bomber fleets .
