Russia takes delivery of Ukrainian bombers and cruise missiles

Published: 1/13/2000

Russia has taken delivery from Ukraine of eight strategic Tu-160 bombers, three Tu-95 MS bombers, nearly 600 Kh-22 cruise missiles, which are used for long-range aviation, and land equipment for aircraft. Two strategic bombers (Tu-160 and Tu-95 MS) were transferred to Russia on 5th November and two Tu-95 MS bombers were transferred on 30th December 1999. On 10th January 2000, seven strategic bombers were brought from the Ukrainian airfield at Priluk, in the Chernigov region, to an airbase at Engels in the Saratov Region. In return, Ukraine will clear $285m in debt to Russia for gas supplied. Ukraine's overall debt to Russia for gas supplied is $1billion. Ivan Aboimov, the Russian Ambassador based in Kiev, said that Russia is impressed with the quality and high operational capability of the bombers. Associated articles: www.concise.org 9th August 1999;11th August 1999;20th September 1999;3rd November 1999

Article ID: 1311