Tupolev Tu-95 facts for kids
The Tupolev Tu-95, also known by its code name Bear, is a very large and powerful airplane. It was first used as a bomber during the Cold War, a time of tension between different countries. This plane was built by a company called Tupolev. It could carry strong nuclear bombs. Later, it was also used to gather information as a spy plane and even as a bomber that could fly without a pilot, like a large drone.
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The First Flight and Its Role
The Tu-95 airplane first flew in 1952 and started being used in 1956. It was very important during the Cold War because it could fly for very long distances. This plane could travel faster than 500 miles per hour and had a range of 9,000 miles! This means it could go almost halfway around the world without stopping.
How It Flies So Fast
The Tu-95 is powered by special engines called turboprop engines. These engines use propellers, but they are driven by a jet engine inside. This makes the plane very fast. The shape of the plane's wings also helps it fly quickly. They are swept back, which means they are angled backward, making the plane more aerodynamic and sleek.
Unique Features and Current Use
Unlike many newer bomber planes, the Tu-95 has a special gun area called a turret in its tail. This was for defense. Today, the Tu-95 is still used by the Russian Air Force in Russia. There is also another version of the plane, called the Tu-142, which is used by the Russian Navy for different missions, like finding submarines. The Tu-95 is expected to be used by militaries until the year 2040.
Images for kids
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A Tu-95MS flying.
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A Tu-95MS practicing aerial refueling with another plane during a parade in Moscow in 2008.
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A Tu-116, a version of the Tu-95, at the Ulyanovsk Aircraft Museum.
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A Tu-95 being watched by a RAF Eurofighter Typhoon jet.
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A Tu-95MS at Engels Air Force Base in 2006.
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A Tu-95K22 Bear-G with a large dome for its special electronic equipment, used to guide missiles.
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A Tu-95RTs Bear D from the Soviet Naval Aviation flying in 1983.
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Many Tu-95MS planes lined up at Engels Air Force Base in 2005.
See also
In Spanish: Túpolev Tu-95 para niños
