The book explores the development and operational history of the M-4 "Bison," a high-speed strategic bomber created by the Myasishchev design bureau in response to NATO threats. Notable for its innovative design features, including a bicycle landing gear and powerful jet engines, the Bison served as a crucial nuclear deterrent for 40 years. The narrative also covers the evolution of its variants, particularly the 3M, which was adapted for space transport as the VM-T Atlant. The text highlights both the challenges faced and the bomber's significant impact during its service.
This unique book provides an in-depth look at an active-duty Russian supersonic bomber, offering insights that are not available in any other English-language publication. It explores the aircraft's design, capabilities, and operational history, making it an essential resource for aviation enthusiasts and military history buffs. The detailed analysis sheds light on the strategic significance of this powerful bomber within modern warfare.
By the turn of the century, China had established itself as a leading military power, focusing on fleet renewal. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and Naval Aviation are now emphasizing indigenously developed aircraft and helicopters over local derivatives of Russian or Western designs. This volume examines the current PLAAF/PLANAF order of battle, detailing advanced aircraft in service or set to enter service. Among those featured are the Chengdu J-10, a single-engine fourth-generation fighter operational since 2003, and fifth-generation fighters like the twin-engine Chengdu J-20 and the lighter Shenyang J-31. The Xian H-6K missile carriers, a Chinese version of the Tupolev Tu-16 bomber, continue to be delivered, with the H-6N, which has in-flight refueling capabilities, entering service in 2019. The book also covers transport aviation and the development of an aircraft carrier fleet, including the Shenyang J-15 Flying Shark, derived from the Sukhoi Su-33. Additionally, the Harbin Z-20 medium utility helicopter, resembling the Sikorsky S-70 Black Hawk, and operational numbers of the CAIC Z-10 and Harbin Z-19 attack helicopters are highlighted. Unmanned aerial vehicles are also included in this comprehensive survey.
Profiles of iconic types including the Yakovlev Yak-25RV 'Mandrake' and the
MiG-25R 'Foxbat'. Summary of design histories and careers Colour reference for
paint schemes Critical review of available kits Over 180 colour and black and
white illustrations, including 20 full colour side-views and a range of
various 3-view line-drawings.
The narrative details the evolution of the Sukhoi Design Bureau after its 1949 closure, focusing on its development of fast interceptors in response to NATO threats. Key aircraft include the Su-9, Su-11, and the more advanced Su-15, which played a significant role in Soviet air defense despite its controversial history involving the downing of South Korean airliners. The book thoroughly covers all known variants and their operational details, complemented by rare and unpublished photographs, providing an in-depth look at this pivotal chapter in aviation history.
Focusing on the Tupolev Tu-154, this comprehensive volume explores its significance as a key medium-haul aircraft for Aeroflot and its success in the commercial market. It details the aircraft's development, operational history, and various versions, including unrealized projects. The book features a thorough production list, country-specific operator information, accident details, and is richly illustrated with color photos and line drawings, providing an in-depth resource for aviation enthusiasts and historians alike.
Focusing on the Antonov design bureau's innovations, the book details the evolution of its heavy transport aircraft, starting with the An-22, which debuted in the 1960s as the heaviest transport plane. It highlights the An-124, renowned for its impressive payload capacity and versatility in military and humanitarian missions. The unique An-225 "Mriya," initially designed for the Buran space shuttle, also plays a key role in the narrative, showcasing its adaptability in cargo transport. The book features numerous photographs, color illustrations, and line drawings.
The narrative explores the development of Myasishchev's M-50 and M-52 prototypes, highlighting their significance as supersonic strategic bombers in the late 1950s. It delves into the engineering challenges, design innovations, and the geopolitical context that influenced their creation. The book provides insights into the technological advancements of the era and the impact these aircraft had on military aviation and strategy during the Cold War.
