* In the early 1950s, the Soviet Union was determined to keep up with the West, and major efforts were placed on development of advanced aircraft. Development of effective bombers was a high priority, leading to the introduction of a formidable, swept-wing, twinjet bomber, the "Tupolev Tu-16 Badger", in the mid-1950s. It was an excellent aircraft that would prove useful in a wide range of roles, and it would have a long service life -- indeed, the Chinese are still manufacturing it. This document provides a history and description of the Tu-16.
