Next-gen Russian subsonic stealth bomber, flying wing design, long-range cruise missile carrier, replacing Tu-95 and Tu-160.
The Tupolev PAK DA (Perspective Aviation Complex for Long-Range Aviation) is a fifth-generation subsonic stealth strategic bomber developed by Tupolev, part of Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation. It is designed as a flying wing with no vertical stabilizers to minimize radar cross-section. The aircraft is intended to replace the Tu-95MS Bear and Tu-160 Blackjack. It will carry nuclear and conventional payloads, including cruise missiles and precision-guided munitions. Powered by two new NK-32-02 derivative engines, the PAK DA will achieve a combat range over 9,300 miles (15,000 km). The bomber emphasizes low observability, stand-off strike capability, and network-centric warfare compatibility. Its internal payload bay supports up to 30 tonnes of weapons. Initial flight was projected for 2025–2026, with serial production expected around 2030–2032. It will complement or replace existing platforms in Russia’s Long-Range Aviation Command.
History of the development of the Tupolev PAK DA
The concept for the PAK DA emerged in the context of the post-Soviet modernization stagnation experienced by the Russian military aviation sector. By the late 2000s, Russia’s fleet of strategic bombers—Tu-95MS and Tu-160—was aging and increasingly obsolete in the face of evolving global strike and defense capabilities. Although both aircraft were undergoing modernization programs (Tu-95MSM and Tu-160M), Russian military leadership recognized the necessity of developing a clean-sheet strategic bomber suited to the 21st-century battlefield.
In 2007, the Russian Ministry of Defence authorized feasibility studies for a new bomber under the codename PAK DA (Perspektivnyi Aviatsionnyi Kompleks Dalney Aviatsii), meaning “Perspective Aviation Complex for Long-Range Aviation.” The Air Force requirement was formally issued in 2008, setting the stage for the development of a subsonic, low-observable strategic aircraft with improved electronic warfare capabilities, internal payload bays, and next-generation avionics. The decision to develop a stealthy flying wing design followed Western trends, especially influenced by the operational success of the Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit in the United States.
The contract for the design phase was awarded to Tupolev Design Bureau in 2013, which proposed a non-supersonic, radar-evading aircraft with long endurance and high payload capacity. Unlike the Tu-160, which prioritized speed, the PAK DA emphasized survivability and sensor fusion. The program gained strong political support, especially from President Vladimir Putin and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, and was identified as a key element in Russia’s long-term strategic deterrence posture.
By 2014, construction of the first prototype had reportedly begun at the Kazan Aircraft Production Association (KAPO) facility. The first flight was initially expected in 2019, later delayed due to funding reallocations and changes in engine development schedules. As of 2023, the projected maiden flight was moved to 2025 or 2026, with serial production likely to begin by 2030–2032.
The aircraft received the NATO reporting name “Flatback”, referencing its flat flying-wing shape. Though official specifications were kept classified, leaks and patents confirmed a wingspan estimated at over 170 feet (52 meters) and stealth shaping optimized for low-frequency radar absorption.
Throughout its development, the PAK DA has incorporated systems derived from other fifth-generation platforms such as the Sukhoi Su-57 fighter, particularly in the domains of avionics, composite materials, and electronic warfare. It is also expected to be compatible with Russia’s Hypersonic Kh-95 ALCM, further reinforcing its strategic value. The PAK DA was never conceived as a direct successor to just one aircraft but rather a multirole platform combining the strategic deterrent role of the Tu-95 with the speed and payload flexibility of the Tu-160, offering a modern approach to nuclear and conventional strike operations.
Design of the Tupolev PAK DA
The Tupolev PAK DA adopts a flying wing configuration with a blended fuselage and no vertical tail surfaces, optimized for stealth and aerodynamic efficiency. The airframe incorporates extensive radar-absorbent materials (RAM), especially in panel joints, engine inlets, and edges. The wing has a moderate sweep angle and likely integrates active leading and trailing edge control surfaces to manage stability in the absence of vertical stabilizers.
The structure is predominantly made of composite materials, reducing weight and radar reflection. Internal systems are shielded by multi-layered armor and electromagnetic protection, supporting operations in nuclear and electronic warfare environments.
Dimensions remain classified, but estimates suggest a wingspan of 170 feet (52 meters) and an overall length of approximately 145 feet (44 meters). The aircraft’s empty weight is projected to be around 115,000 pounds (52,000 kg) with a maximum takeoff weight near 320,000 pounds (145,000 kg).
The internal weapons bay is designed to carry up to 30 tonnes (66,000 pounds) of armament, allowing for nuclear bombs, air-launched cruise missiles (ALCMs), hypersonic glide vehicles, and precision-guided munitions. The use of internal bays reduces the aircraft’s radar signature, eliminating external pylons.
The aircraft will be powered by two Kuznetsov NK-32-02-derived engines, similar to those on the upgraded Tu-160M2 but modified for better fuel efficiency and lower infrared signature. Each engine delivers around 55,000 pounds-force (245 kN) of thrust. Engine inlets are S-duct shaped and embedded in the wing root to shield the compressor face from radar detection.
The PAK DA integrates next-generation avionics built on Su-57 architecture, including phased-array radars, infrared search and track (IRST), electronic warfare suites, and data fusion systems. It features a glass cockpit with advanced flight management and navigation systems, satellite communications, and AI-based mission planning tools.
A fully fly-by-wire system manages flight control, critical for stability in a tailless design. Cooling systems and heat dispersion are engineered to reduce the infrared signature, further increasing survivability against infrared-guided missiles.
Although not supersonic, the design focuses on range, low observability, and payload versatility. Drawbacks include lower evasion through speed, and potential vulnerability in transit if detected. However, stealth shaping and passive sensors offset these risks, allowing it to approach defended targets with minimal detection risk. The lack of vertical surfaces reduces radar reflection, but complicates yaw stability and demands complex flight control algorithms.
The PAK DA is also expected to support unmanned systems coordination and may serve as a mothership for UAV swarms, integrating seamlessly into networked combat operations. Its modular architecture allows future updates in avionics, EW systems, and weapons.
Performance of the Tupolev PAK DA
The Tupolev PAK DA is powered by two upgraded NK-32-02 turbofan engines, each generating 55,000 lbf (245 kN) of thrust. These engines are low-bypass, optimized for fuel efficiency and reduced thermal and radar signatures. They are equipped with serrated nozzles, infrared shielding, and composite nacelles to reduce observability.
The estimated maximum speed is 620 mph (1,000 km/h) at cruising altitude, maintaining subsonic flight to maximize stealth and fuel economy. The cruise speed is expected to be around 560 mph (900 km/h). Operational ceiling is projected at 49,200 feet (15,000 meters).
The aircraft’s range without refueling is estimated at 9,300 miles (15,000 km), allowing intercontinental operations without reliance on tankers. Combat radius is projected at 3,100 miles (5,000 km) with a full payload. These figures position it on par with or beyond the B-2 Spirit, which has a range of 6,900 miles (11,100 km).
Takeoff distance is estimated at 9,800 feet (3,000 meters) on a paved runway. Runway requirements reflect the aircraft’s heavy weight but are manageable by Russian strategic airbases.
The aircraft will carry an internal payload of up to 30 tonnes, including Kh-102 nuclear cruise missiles, Kh-55/101/555 series, Kh-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, and conventional JDAM-type bombs. The bomber is designed to support hypersonic ALCMs, specifically the Kh-95, currently under development.
The PAK DA includes low-probability-of-intercept (LPI) radar, IRST, and passive sensors, enabling detection and targeting without revealing its position. The avionics suite also allows automated terrain-following flight, reducing the likelihood of radar detection during penetration missions.
Compared to Western platforms, the PAK DA sacrifices supersonic dash speed, which the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider also avoids. Its design follows similar priorities: long-range, low-RCS, internal payload, and survivability. However, the B-21 is expected to use more advanced sensor fusion and materials, while the PAK DA focuses on missile platform efficiency and payload diversity.
In comparison, China’s H-20 bomber is also in the stealth flying-wing category but is expected to have a shorter range (~8,100 miles or 13,000 km) and a lower payload capacity (~20 tonnes). Thus, the PAK DA ranks favorably in global performance benchmarks for strategic bombers.
Variants of the Tupolev PAK DA
As of 2025, only a single base variant of the Tupolev PAK DA is confirmed under development. However, projected future variants are expected, mirroring strategies seen with the Tu-160 and Tu-95 programs.
- PAK DA Base Variant (Prototype / Strategic Strike Configuration)
The current model under development is a strategic stealth platform with long-range nuclear and conventional strike capabilities. It is designed for crew of four, supports an internal payload up to 30 tonnes, and integrates both nuclear cruise missiles and precision-guided bombs. - PAK DA-ECM (Electronic Combat Variant)
A future electronic warfare variant is proposed. It would replace a portion of payload capacity with jamming pods, electronic countermeasures, and decoy dispensers, acting in a support role for strike groups or as an autonomous electronic warfare platform. - PAK DA-C (Command & Control Variant)
A modular configuration for airborne command and control is under consideration. It would act as a network node in a combat cloud, managing UAVs, hypersonic weapons, or long-range ISR assets. - Unmanned PAK DA (Future concept)
A long-term possibility includes a UAV or optionally piloted version for high-risk missions. No timeline or specifications have been disclosed.
No export variants are currently authorized. The platform remains strictly for Russian Aerospace Forces, unlike the Su-57 which has been offered abroad.
Military missions of the Tupolev PAK DA
The Tupolev PAK DA is conceived as a multirole strategic bomber optimized for nuclear deterrence, conventional precision strike, stand-off missile delivery, and penetration of integrated air defense networks. Its design focuses on survivability through stealth, range, and stand-off capability rather than speed or maneuverability.
The aircraft’s primary armament includes the Kh-102 nuclear cruise missile, offering a range of over 3,100 miles (5,000 km). Conventional equivalents include the Kh-101, carrying a high-explosive or submunitions warhead. The PAK DA is also compatible with the Kh-55SM, an older but still potent long-range air-launched missile. Internal payload will also include gravity nuclear bombs, satellite-guided bombs, and air-to-surface missiles. The upcoming Kh-95 hypersonic missile, with a projected speed above Mach 5 and range over 1,800 miles (3,000 km), is being developed specifically for the PAK DA.
In conventional warfare, the aircraft can strike high-value infrastructure, C4ISR nodes, and deep logistical targets with precision munitions while remaining outside most modern SAM ranges. Stealth enables deep penetration strikes against hardened targets with minimal detection, especially useful against nations with dense radar coverage and mobile missile defense systems.
During a nuclear conflict, the PAK DA would serve as the airborne leg of the Russian nuclear triad. Its range allows it to reach North America, Europe, or Asia without aerial refueling. In a launch-on-warning scenario, the PAK DA can carry out preemptive or retaliatory strikes, either via sub-strategic nuclear bombs or ALCMs, giving strategic depth and redundancy to ground and sea-based assets.
Other projected missions include:
- Hypersonic missile delivery (Kh-47M2 Kinzhal and Kh-95 types).
- Suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) using future air-launched anti-radiation weapons.
- Electronic warfare, in coordination with UAVs or future EW-optimized PAK DA variants.
- UAV mothership missions, where the bomber could deploy and command loyal wingmen drones for decoy, reconnaissance, or strike purposes.
- ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) via modular payloads or reconnaissance pods.
Unlike its predecessors (Tu-95 and Tu-160), which use speed or altitude as defensive mechanisms, the PAK DA emphasizes signature reduction, passive sensors, and terrain-following profiles to approach defended targets.
Key competitors include:
- Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider (USA): Expected to enter service in the late 2020s. Similar mission profile, but with more emphasis on multi-domain integration and AI-based operations.
- Xian H-20 (China): Still under development, targeting similar range and payload characteristics, with expected deployment around 2035.
As of 2025, the PAK DA has not been exported and is exclusive to the Russian Aerospace Forces. Its initial operating capability (IOC) is projected for 2030, with full fleet replacement of Tu-95MS and partial replacement of Tu-160M by 2035. The aircraft will remain in service for at least three decades, based on modernization cycles and projected threat evolution.
The PAK DA is also designed to operate with future Russian ISR satellites, data links, and hypersonic missile platforms, ensuring long-term interoperability across multiple platforms. It plays a central role in the Russian Long-Range Aviation Command’s strategic planning through 2050.
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