Barry, 04.04.2013 12:52 This aircraft was somewhat of a revolution in interceptor terms if not in overall aeroplane terms. The Russians were increasingly concerned about defending their northern and eastern boundaries and needed a plane that could cover the vast exposed areas from suspected attacks by the USAF. This incredibly large plane was developed with a greater range than any previous or subsequent interceptor. The problems lay in the piloting of such a craft. The PVO Obrana (Fighter Defense of the Homeland) selected pilots from their existing cadre of MiG 17 and 19 pilots who had been used to flying a very much lighter craft which used a stick rather than a wheel. Coupled to this was getting this very large and fast aeroplane off the ground required skills not usually assocciated with interceptor fighters. To the original group of selected pilots it seemed indefensible that no trainer had been built. Eventually after encountering many problems the powers that be arranged for the construction of four Tu128 UTI trainers and the conversion of a further six aircraft to the trainer role. It was originaly intended to have 25 air regiments equipped with the Tu128 but in the event only some six were so equipped. Each regiment consiting of three squadrons of 9 to 12 aircraft each. The aeroplane was gradually withdrawn from use in the 1970's and 1980's and all bar two were cut up and scrapped throughout the 1990's.

paul scott, e-mail, 12.07.2012 22:15 Still the largest interceptor aircraft ever built.

guozhong, 20.06.2011 13:11 Progressively withdrawn from the Voyska PVO home defence fighter force through the 'eighties, the Tu-128 was finally succeeded by the MiG-31 in late 1990.

, e-mail, 20.06.2011 13:11 Tupolev Tu-28 / Tu-128 1961

leo rudnicki, e-mail, 12.04.2009 07:02 Bisnovat R-4 missiles, Nato designation A-A 5 Ash ,were carried by the big Tupolev and no other. Missiles too, were long range. The range of this fighter may never be equalled.

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