Tupolev Tu-22
| Tu-22 | |
|---|---|
| Tu-22PD | |
| General information | |
| Type | Medium bomber |
| National origin | Soviet Union |
| Manufacturer | Tupolev |
| Status | Retired |
| Primary users | Soviet Air Force |
| Number built | 311 |
| History | |
| Manufactured | 1960–1969 |
| Introduction date | 1962 |
| First flight | 7 September 1959 |
| Retired | Early 2000s (Libya) |
| Developed into | Tu-22M |
The Tupolev Tu-22 (Air Standardization Coordinating Committee name: Blinder) was the first supersonic bomber to enter production in the Soviet Union. Manufactured by Tupolev, the Tu-22 entered service with Long-Range Aviation and Soviet Naval Aviation in the 1960s.
The aircraft was a disappointment, lacking both the speed and range that had been expected. It was also a difficult design to fly and maintain. It was produced in small numbers, especially compared to the Tupolev Tu-16 it was designed to replace. The aircraft was later adapted for other roles, notably as the Tu-22R reconnaissance aircraft and as a carrier for the long-range Kh-22 antiship missile.
Tu-22s were sold to other nations, including Libya and Iraq: Libyan Tu-22s were used against Tanzania and Chad, and Iraqi Tu-22s were used during the Iran–Iraq War.