Resurrected Russian Bomber Makes Headway On Flight Testing

The Tupolev "strategic missile carrier" version of its supersonic, variable-wing Tu-160 has taken flight from the Kazan Aviation Plant for initial checks of its stability and control systems. The flight is a landmark for the resurrected aircraft following work on bringing a modernized, updated variant back into production. The Tupolev has been the focus of efforts to create a modernized, updated aircraft of the 40-year old design. United Aircraft Corporation CEO Yuri Slyusar said the project was essentially the manufacture of a brand-new Tu-160 from the ground up, telling reporters the Tu-160 is “completely rebuilt from scratch. It’s systems and equipment have been up

Fleet Grounded As ROCAF Seeks Answers

Taiwan's newly converted F-16V's are grounded, following an accident that saw the complete loss of an aircraft during a routine training mission from its base in southwest Taiwan. The ROCAF said the jet appeared to have plunged into the ocean with no signs the pilot ejected before impact. The national rescue center reported wreckage had been found during the nocturnal search of the surrounding area. The incident has led to a fleet-wide grounding order for the type as officials look to find the cause. Last spring, a similar order was issued when two of the fighters collided in what was then the 3rd fatal crash in half a year, a dangerous attrition rate for fighters that the country cannot easily replace.

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