The Tupolev Tu-82 was a 1940s Soviet experimental swept-wing bomber. It was the first Soviet jet bomber with swept wings.^[1]

Design and development

Similar to the earlier Tupolev Tu-14, the Tu-82 was designed to investigate the use of swept wings. Powered by two Klimov VK-1 engines, the Tu-82 first flew in February 1949.^[1] It achieved a top speed of 934 km/h and a ceiling of 14,000 m.^[1] Tupolev planned a larger combat version as the Tu-86, but it was not built.^[1]

Specifications (Tu-82)

Data from ^[2]

General characteristics

• Crew: three
• Length: 17.57 m (57 ft 8 in)
• Wingspan: 17.81 m (58 ft 5 in)
• Wing area: 45 m² (484 sq ft)
• Empty weight: 9,526 kg (21,000 lb)
• Gross weight: 18,340 kg (40,430 lb)
• Powerplant: 2 × Klimov VK-1 , 26.5 kN (5,955 lbf) thrust each

Performance

• Maximum speed: 934 km/h (579 mph, 503 kn)
• Range: 2,395 km (1,493 mi, 1,297 nmi)
• Service ceiling: 11,400 m (37,392 ft)