In a recent announcement, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) boasted about thwarting an alleged attempt to steal a Tu-22M3 strategic bomber by a pilot intending to defect to Ukraine.
Staged Operation?
According to Tech this claim, reported by various Russian media outlets, highlights the ongoing information warfare between Russia and Ukraine.
According to the FSB, the pilot was offered $2 million and the promise of Italian citizenship to fly the aircraft to the Zhytomyr region of Ukraine.
The pilot reportedly informed the FSB about the recruitment attempt by the opposing intelligence service. However, there is speculation that this could be a staged operation by the FSB for propaganda purposes, aimed at deterring other potential defectors.
Both Ukrainian and Russian intelligence agencies are known to actively operate in each other's territories, employing various tactics such as bribery, emotional manipulation, promises of a better life, or even blackmail to induce defections. High-ranking individuals with access to critical equipment or information are prime targets.
Hard to Neutralize
The Tu-22M3 bombers are a significant asset in Russia's military arsenal.
These upgraded aircraft can carry up to 24 tons of armament, including Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles, 18 FAB-500 guided bombs, or eight 1.5-ton FAB-1500 bombs, allowing for multiple target strikes in a single mission.
With a cruising speed approaching Mach 1.9 (approximately 1,441 mph) and an operational ceiling of around 13 km (8 miles), these bombers can engage targets in Ukraine from beyond the reach of most air defense systems, with exceptions like the Patriot and SAMP/T systems, which Ukraine possesses in limited quantities.
Despite their capabilities, the Tu-22M3 bombers are not invincible. Ukraine has successfully downed one using an old S-200 Vega system, though this was an isolated incident.
The bombers' operational range of about 7,000 km (4,350 miles) allows them to conduct strikes from deep within Russian territory, complicating efforts to neutralize them on the ground compared to tactical bombers like the Su-34, which need to be stationed closer to conflict zones.
