PAK DA: Putin’s High Flying Stealth Bomber Grounded?
While the introduction of a Russian stealth strategic bomber is probably inevitable, the PAK DA is likely not as menacing as the Kremlin would like us to believe
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by Maya Carlin, Warrior Contributor, Weapons
Putin clearly wants a new stealth bomber – well, Russia never has even had one stealth bomber – but likely will never get it. Here’s why:
The Kremlin is well known for spewing misinformation in the form of propaganda. Since Russian forces first invaded Ukraine last February, Moscow has consistently spread falsehoods and even misled its own citizens to support its war efforts.
For instance, many of Russia’s “top-of-the-line” fighter jets largely touted by the Kremlin to be formidable airframes have suffered humiliating blows throughout the conflict.
In addition to jets, the Kremlin has also marketed the alleged development and progress of its PAK DA long-range bomber.
Industry experts agree for the most part that the purported airframe is probably nothing more than a paper plane – at least for now.
Russia’s Process to Develop its Own Stealth Strategic Bomber
For decades, the U.S. military has dominated the airspace arena with cutting-edge stealth platforms across its services. The F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, Sr-71, and F-117 were groundbreaking airframes that continue to hold legendary status in the eyes of aviation buffs.
America’s monopoly on stealth bombers has also played an instrumental role in the country’s aerial dominance for decades.