Deep Modernization of the Tu-160 will be finished in 2019, said the Director of the design center of the Kazan aircraft plant. Gorbunova, where the upgrade of these aircraft, Boris Naishuller. "1st stage of modernization has been completed, the second phase associated with the replacement of the practice of the avionics on existing aircraft, it is expected to finish in 2019," said Nicholas news Agency. according to him, the process of modernization began with the replacement of the equipment installed on the aircraft in the Soviet era." on the aircraft equipment, which was manufactured in the former republics of the Soviet Union. Modernization is aimed at all the equipment, including navigation systems, communication equipment, replaced by a Russian, " explained Nicholas. At the end of April, Russian defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has set the task to study the question of the restoration of production of a supersonic strategic bombers Tu-160 at the Kazan aircraft plant. Gorbunova. Tu-160 is the largest and most powerful in the history of military aviation supersonic aircraft with variable geometry wings, as well as the most heavy combat aircraft in the world, having the largest Among the bombers maximum take-off weight. Among the pilots was nicknamed the " White Swan ". Was produced from 1984 to 1992, during this period of time was released 34 aircraft, and more than fifty percent of them - 19 cars - after the partition of the USSR remained in Ukraine. In Kiev told that this aircraft is not necessary, and proceeded to waste by getting a cut of each plane for a million dollars from North America. Eight of the planes turned out to save - they were transferred to Moscow after long conversations. Kiev has sought for Soviet aircraft or two transport Il-76 for the car or gas debt write-off. In the end still stayed on the 2nd version. Currently in service with the Russian air force are 16 bombers Tu-160.