Tu-22M3 ‘Backfire’: Russia’s ‘Supersonic Bomber’ Ukraine Just Destroyed

Key Points – Russia’s Tu-22M3 “Backfire,” a supersonic, variable-sweep wing strategic bomber, has been a key platform for launching cruise missiles (like the Kh-22/Kh-32) against Ukraine.

-Originating from the 1970s Tu-22M program, the M3 variant boasts Mach 1.88 speed and a significant payload.

-Despite ongoing modernization efforts (Tu-22M3M with refueling probes), the fleet’s vulnerabilities were exposed during a June 1st Ukrainian drone attack on Russian airbases, where at least four Tu-22M3s were reportedly hit.

-While this specific damage constitutes less than 8% of the operational Tu-22M3 fleet, it underscores the new threats facing Russia’s strategic bombers.

Meet Russia’s Tu-22M3 Bomber

The Tupolev Tu-22M3 is the smallest strategic bomber currently in use by the Russian Federation. With its variable-sweep wing and high-performance engines, the Tu-22M3 is able to reach supersonic speeds of Mach 1.88.

The aircraft is one of the main bombers in Russia’s fleet alongside the Tu-95 “Bear.” During a recent Ukrainian drone raid against Russian air bases, the Tu-22M3 was targeted alongside several Tu-95 bombers with at least four frames confirmed hit as of now.

Getting Hit Where it Hurts

On June 1st, Ukraine launched a large-scale attack using asymmetric tactics targeting several Russian airbases throughout the country which house strategic bombers. This attack is by far one of the most sophisticated and well-coordinated attacks launched by Ukraine in the entire war so far. The operation reportedly took over 18 months to plan and set up and used multiple truck containers which were transformed into drone carriers.

The attack primarily targeted Russia’s strategic bombers which had taken part in missile attacks against Ukraine. Belaya Air Base, and Olenya Air Base in Russia were hit with attacks against other bases reportedly thwarted.

As a result of the attack, several Tu-95 bombers were hit with video and satellite footage showing a at least four Tu-22M3s hit as well. The attack is one of the largest blows to the Russian Airforce since WW2 and cost Russia around $7 billion in damages.

However, the damage to its Tu-22M3 fleet is relatively minor, accounting for less than 8% of operational aircraft. While the attack was undoubtedly a major success for Ukraine and a costly blow to Russia, unfortunately, it is unlikely to disrupt Russia’s strategic bombing campaign unless attacks like this are repeated.

Origins of the Tu-22M3

The origins of the Tu-22M3 trace back to the shortcomings of the earlier Tu-22, a 1960s-era bomber that failed to meet expectations due to its limited range, poor handling, and maintenance difficulties.

In response, the Tupolev Design Bureau initiated a new project that would eventually become the Tu-22M. The first prototype flew in 1969, and the aircraft entered service in the 1970s. The Tu-22M3 variant, introduced in the early 1980s, was a significant improvement over earlier versions. It featured redesigned air intakes, more powerful engines, and improved avionics, all of which enhanced its speed, range, and overall combat effectiveness.

The Tu-22M3 is a twin-engine bomber with variable-sweep wings, a design that allows it to optimize performance across different flight regimes. When the wings are swept back, the aircraft can achieve high speeds, while extended wings provide better lift during takeoff, landing, and low-speed flight. The aircraft measures approximately 42.5 meters in length and has a wingspan that varies from 23.3 to 34.3 meters depending on wing position.

It is powered by two Kuznetsov NK-25 afterburning turbofan engines, which enable it to reach speeds of up to Mach 1.88. Its combat radius is around 2,400 kilometers, and with aerial refueling, it can reach distances of up to 7,000 kilometers.

Modernization and Upgrade Projects

In terms of avionics, the Tu-22M3 is equipped with a radar system for navigation and targeting, electronic countermeasures for self-defense, and systems for detecting and evading enemy radar. Over the years, these systems have been upgraded to keep the bombers up to date with current technology.

The aircraft’s armament is one of its most formidable features. It can carry a wide range of weapons, including long-range cruise missiles like the Kh-22 and its modernized successor, the Kh-32. These missiles are designed to strike naval and land-based targets from standoff distances, making the Tu-22M3 a potent threat to enemy forces. Additionally, the aircraft can carry free-fall bombs, cluster munitions, and precision-guided weapons, with a total payload capacity of up to 24,000 kilograms.

To maintain the relevance of the Tu-22M3, Russia initiated several modernization programs. The most notable of these is the Tu-22M3M upgrade, which includes a digital cockpit, modern navigation and targeting systems, and compatibility with new weapons such as the Kh-32 missile.

One of the most significant changes is the reintroduction of an aerial refueling probe, which had been removed in earlier versions due to arms control agreements. This modification greatly extends the aircraft’s operational range and strategic flexibility.

The Tu-22’s Past Performance

The Tu-22M3 has played a significant role in both Soviet and Russian military operations. During the Cold War, it was primarily intended to target NATO naval forces, particularly aircraft carrier strike groups.

Its speed and missile capabilities made it a key component of Soviet maritime strategy. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Russia retained a large number of Tu-22M3s, while Ukraine, which inherited some of the aircraft, eventually dismantled them under disarmament agreements.

In combat, the Tu-22M3 has been used in several conflicts. It was deployed during the Chechen wars in the 1990s to bomb rebel positions. In the 2008 Russo-Georgian War, it conducted bombing missions, although one aircraft was reportedly shot down.

Since 2015, the Tu-22M3 has been actively used in Syria, where it has delivered conventional bombs against ISIS and other targets. More recently, during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the Tu-22M3 has been employed to launch cruise missile strikes and conduct conventional bombing missions.

These operations have demonstrated both the aircraft’s capabilities and its vulnerabilities which Ukraine most definitely exploited.

About the Author:

Isaac Seitz, a Defense Columnist, graduated from Patrick Henry College’s Strategic Intelligence and National Security program. He has also studied Russian at Middlebury Language Schools and has worked as an intelligence Analyst in the private sector.

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