The Russian Aerospace Forces’ PAK DA bomber, a promising long-range aviation complex, may present challenges for NATO.
The strategic stealth bomber PAK DA is critical to Russia’s nuclear deterrent, which, along with strategic submarines and land-based launchers, forms a strong deterrent trinity.
According to publicly available information, Russia’s new generation of stealth bombers would have two primary characteristics: exceptional stealth and a large payload.
Furthermore, PAK DA can carry cruise missiles to attack targets effectively. If refueled in the air, this flying machine will go long distances to carry out transoceanic attacks.
There is consensus among military analysts that Russia’s stealth aircraft will be utilized in global battles and regional confrontations armed with conventional bombs.
In terms of design, this plane is unparalleled, and it exemplifies the unrivaled strength of the Russian Aerospace Forces.
The Tupolev PAK DA will serve alongside the older Tupolev Tu-95 until finally taking its place.
By February 2026, state tests are scheduled to commence, while the 2020 Izvestia article claims that three PAK DA prototypes will be ready for early testing by April 2023.
It is anticipated that the serial production of the plane will begin in the year 2027.
The Russian Defense Ministry is only expected to buy a limited number of PAK DA bombers at first due to the continuing modernization of Russia’s current bomber fleet and the significant acquisitions of improved Tu-160M2s.
The PAK DA had the technical specifications of being subsonic, having an operational range of 12,000 kilometers, and staying aloft for up to 30 hours while toting conventional and nuclear payloads of up to 30 tonnes.
Researchers anticipate a total team size of 4. PAK DA follows the “flying wing” scheme to minimize its radar cross-section. It will likely have artificial intelligence and long-range hypersonic missiles.
The most cutting-edge electronic warfare systems will be installed aboard Russia’s long-range bombers, giving them an edge against any foe. While the PAK DA is often regarded as superior to the B-2 Spirit, its tactical effectiveness has been called into question, along with many other Russian weapons of the latest generation.
Russian “superweapon” programs like the Su-57 Felon stealth aircraft and T-14 Armata main battle tank are moving slowly. PAK DA may not escape this.
