B1b Lancer Vs Tu-160 Blackjack – Which Is Better
In this video, we will particularly discuss the comparison between the two supersonic Bomber B-1 vs Tu-160. Stay tuned!
First of all, let’s have a look at the history of both aircraft!
B-1 Lancer
The B-1 Lancer is a strategic bomber that was developed by Rockwell International for the United States Air Force. The aircraft was first conceived in the 1970s as a replacement for the aging fleet of B-52 Stratofortress that had been in service since the 1950s.
The B-1 underwent several changes during its development. The original design called for a supersonic bomber that would be able to fly at Mach 2.2, but this was later scaled back to a subsonic design due to budget constraints and concerns about the aircraft’s fuel efficiency. The B-1 also faced several setbacks and delays during its development, including the cancellation of the program by President Jimmy Carter in 1977 and its subsequent revival by President Ronald Reagan in 1981.
The B-1 finally entered service with the US Air Force in 1986. It has been used in several conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm in 1991, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. A total of 100 B-1 bombers were built, and the aircraft remains in service today, although it is slated to be retired in the coming years and replaced by the B-21 Raider.
Tu-160
The Tupolev Tu-160, also known as Blackjack, is a supersonic, variable-sweep wing heavy strategic bomber that was developed by the Tupolev Design Bureau in the Soviet Union. It was intended to be a replacement for the Tupolev Tu-95, which had been in service since the 1950s.
The Tu-160 made its first flight in 1981 and entered service with the Soviet military in 1987. It is currently in service with the Russian Air Force. A total of 35 Tu-160 bombers have been built, making it one of the largest fleets of strategic bombers in the world. The Tu-160 has undergone several modernizations and upgrades over the years to improve its capabilities.
The Tu-160 has seen service in several conflicts, including the Russian military intervention in the Syrian Civil War. It has also been used for long-range patrols and training missions, and has set several aviation records, including a record for the longest supersonic flight. The Tu-160 is expected to remain in service with the Russian military for the foreseeable future.
Credit to : Military TV
