Ukrainian drones target Russian air base housing strategic bombers
4:30 PM EDT, March 20, 2024
Ukrainian drones have once again targeted the Engels air base, located about 373 miles from the Ukraine border, as reported by the Defense Romania portal. This site is known for housing Russian Tu-95 and Tu-160 bombers. Let's delve into the capabilities of these formidable aircraft.
On the morning of Wednesday, March 20, in the Saratov region of southwestern Russia, air defense forces reportedly intercepted Ukrainian drones aimed at the Engels air base. Preliminary statements from Russian authorities mention no casualties or damage within the city. It is likely the drones failed to hit their primary targets, the valuable Tu-95 and Tu-160 bombers. However, eyewitnesses have told the Unian agency that they heard between two to four explosions, causing "windows to tremble".
The arsenal at Engels air base
Not long ago, it was reported that Russia had deployed an additional five aircraft to this air base in the Saratov region, possibly indicating plans for extensive strikes into Ukraine. The presence of numerous aircraft at the Engels base makes it a significant target for Ukrainian drones, which were indeed directed there on the morning of Wednesday, March 20.
Although the attack didn't achieve its intended impact, the primary targets were likely the Tu-95MS and Tu-160 bombers. The former were designed in the 1980s to carry payloads up to 44,092 pounds, including Kh-55SM missiles with a range of 1,864 miles or Kh-102 missiles with a range exceeding 3,107 miles, which can be equipped with a thermonuclear warhead.
These aircraft are powered by four Kuznetsov NK 12 turboprop engines, each delivering 20,119 hp. This setup enables the Tu-95MS to reach speeds of 515 mph, with a range of over 6,214 miles without the need for in-flight refueling. The aircraft can reach altitudes of 44,291 feet.
Among the aircraft stationed at Engels are the "White Swans," or Tu-160 bombers. Their production started in the late 1980s, and by 2022, the Russian army operated nearly 40 of these bombers. They are propelled by upgraded Kuznetsov NK 32 turbojet engines.
A distinctive feature of the Tu-160 is its variable wing geometry, allowing the wings to be adjusted to various angles. This provides the Tu-160 with the ability to achieve high speeds while conserving fuel during flight. The bomber's takeoff weight reaches 605,271 pounds, allocating 61,729 pounds for armaments and 308,647 pounds for fuel. The Tu-160 can fly at a maximum speed of 1,365 mph, with a ceiling of 51,181 feet. The bomber's payload bay, measuring 36.7x6.2 feet, can house 12 Kh-55 missiles or 24 Kh-15 missiles.
