Russian Aerospace Forces Expand Long-Range Aviation Fleet Amid Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine

Russia has delivered two modernized Tu-160M strategic bombers to the Russian Aerospace Forces, according to Defense Minister Andrei Belousov. The delivery is part of a larger effort to replenish and upgrade Russia’s long-range aviation fleet, which has been used extensively in cruise missile strikes during the war in Ukraine. AeroTime reports that the modernization includes new avionics, a digital cockpit, and updated engines. The move may help Moscow maintain its ability to launch cruise missiles at Ukraine from well outside the reach of most Ukrainian air defenses.