Russia ramps up modernization of strategic bomber fleet

According to the UNITED24 Media portal, Russia has undertaken intensive efforts to update its strategic bomber fleet. As reported by the Dallas company on May 20, the country is investing considerable resources in upgrading the Tu-22M3M, Tu-160, and Tu-95MS models. Documents reveal details about the factories involved in this work and the costs associated with modernization. These documents indicate that six out of 18 operational Tu-160s are currently undergoing repairs or upgrades. One of them, with tail number 705, is already at the flight testing stage, suggesting it is nearing completion.

The modernization of Russian strategic bombers will have a significant impact on the operational capabilities of the Russian military and its nuclear deterrence potential. Upgrading these aircraft — including new navigation systems, avionics, engines, and the capacity to carry modern cruise missiles — will enhance their range, precision, and ability to operate in heavily defended environments. For the Russian armed forces, this also means greater flexibility in achieving strategic objectives, including those beyond the country's borders. The modernized bombers will be able to fly longer missions, strike from greater distances, and avoid detection thanks to improved electronic warfare systems.

In March 2025, two major Russian aviation plants, the 360th Aircraft Repair Plant in Ryazan and the Taganrog Scientific and Technical Complex, received contracts for the comprehensive overhaul of Tu-95MS bombers. The cost of modernizing three aircraft in Ryazan was approximately $131.66 million, while in Taganrog, it was $184.76 million.

The total cost of restoring six Tu-95MS bombers to service is $316.42 million. However, it remains unclear when the work will be completed. Meanwhile, the aviation plant in Kazan is working on seven Tu-160 bombers, two of which are new constructions using remaining Soviet-era parts.

The Kazan plant is also modernizing Tu-22M3M bombers, with one aircraft currently in the flight testing stage. It is noteworthy that the next-generation stealth bomber project, PAK DA, known as "Product 80," continues to face delays.

Investments within the context of the strategic triangle strengthen the air component of Russia's nuclear arsenal and signal Russia’s commitment to maintaining its status as a global military player. Russia approved the preliminary PAK DA project in 2021, although work has been underway since 2009, and there is no clear timetable for completion. Due to the high cost of these modernizations, economic pressures, and sanctions, the actual scale and pace of implementation may be limited. It is worth noting that earlier, Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber, highlighting that modernizing the fleet is a priority for Russia.