The Tupolev Tu-160 is a supersonic,variable-geometry heavy bomber designed by the Soviet Union. The aircraft is similar to the B-1 Lancer but has a far greater speed, range and payload, and a lower service ceiling.
The Tu-160 supersonic strategic bomber was manufactured by the Tupolev Aircraft Research and Engineering Complex Joint Stock Company in Moscow and the Kazan based Gorbunov Aircraft Production Association in Tatarstan from 1980 to 1992.
First flown in 1982, the Tupolev Tu-160 'Blackjack' is a counterpart to the American B-1B. Both share a similar configuration, but the Soviet designed bomber is about 30 percent ... http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/world/russia/tu-160.
Ever wondered why Tupolev Tu 160 were called Tupolev Tu 160? If you read this article, you are sure to find out the answer. The new planes which are an upgraded version of the Tu 160 model are able to carry 12 X 55 cruiser missiles with a 3000 km range. A total of 40 tons of ammunition can be loaded in the aircraft...
topwatch.nl.eu.org/Tupolev-Tu-160