High speed supersonic bomber and sea patrol aircraft. Development of the TU-22 began in 1955 in order to compete with the growing combat effectiveness of the Western air defence systems. The aim was to be capable of penetrating further into enemy air space at higher altitudes and higher speeds. The TU-22 had its first public showing in 1961. Service ceiling: 18.3 km (!), top speed: 1480 km/h.