Buckle Up: Top 14Expensive Military Rides on the Planet

2. Russia's Tu-95 "Bear" bomber

Manufacturer: Joint Stock Company Tupolev

Main Users: Russian Air Forces

Program Expense: $103,000,000

Cost per Unit: $34.33 million

The Joint Stock Company Tupolev, founded by the renowned aircraft designer Andrei Tupolev, has been instrumental in developing some of the Soviet Union's most iconic aircraft. Notably, many designs from Tupolev's design office were influenced by pre-existing models from U.S. manufacturers. A prime example of this is the Tupolev Tu-95, which draws inspiration from the Boeing Superfortress B-29.

The Tu-95 is a heavy strategic bomber distinguished by its turboprop engines and four-engine configuration. This aircraft is designed for long-range missions and is capable of carrying a substantial payload, making it a critical component of Russia's strategic bombing capabilities.

With a program expense of $103 million and a cost per unit of approximately $34.33 million, the Tu-95 represents a significant investment in military aviation technology.

In conclusion, the Tupolev Tu-95 stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of Soviet aviation, blending influences from Western designs with unique engineering solutions. Its enduring service with the Russian Air Forces underscores its importance in the realm of strategic bombers and highlights the legacy of Andrei Tupolev's contributions to military aviation.

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Tu-95 "Bear" Bomber (Russia) Commencing in the 1950s, the Tu-95 is anticipated to remain a mainstay of the Russian Aerospace Forces until 2040, if not beyond. The bomber's maritime patrol variant is called the Tu-142. The Tu-114 is the Tu-95's variant, designed for passenger airlines. With more than 500 units produced, the Tu-95 is exceptional among swept-wing, propeller-driven aircraft. There are various variations of the Bear, such as the Tu-114 airliner version. The Tu-142 is a maritime recon and anti-submarine variant, and the Tu-116 is a Tu-95 with multiple passenger cabins installed. There have been further alterations, but either Western intelligence overlooked them or the Soviet Union eliminated them before they could be put into use.