If I remember correctly the Russians actually put them in scheduled service inside the USSR for a while. They were retired because they burned too much fuel -- took a full 30 min of afterburner at full reheat to get up to altitude and speed, and that shortened the range too much (along with the usual Russian airplane maintenance, etc).
The TU is pretty snaz for 1968 -- variable pitch turbofan with duct burning reheat, and I believe variable pitch compressor first stage, too. If the Ruskies could every keep their aircraft stuck together and used rational tactics, they'd beat the pants off of us. Good thing is that's not likely to change! The Georgians shot down at least one Backfire bomber and a couple top of the line fighters last week. Peter _______________________________________ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
