Myasishchev 3M "Bison"
Myasishchev / Khrunichev · Soviet Union · first flew 1956 · bomber
The Myasishchev 3M (NATO codename Bison-B/C) was a Soviet four-engine swept-wing strategic bomber developed as a competitor to the Tu-95, intended to deliver nuclear weapons intercontinentally.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 4 × turbojet, embedded-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 51.7 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Soviet Cold War strategic jet bomber (NATO: Bison)
- Four engines buried in wing roots in pairs
- High-mounted swept wings with distinctive bicycle undercarriage
Large swept-wing jet bomber with four engines buried in wing roots (two per side), a tall conventional tail, bicycle main undercarriage with outrigger wingtip wheels, and a distinctive long glazed nose.
Specifications
- The Myasishchev 3M Bison has a length of 51.7 m (170 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 53.1 m (174 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 1000 km/h (621 mph).
- Typical crew: 8.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The M-4/3M programme began in 1951 under Vladimir Myasishchev; the aircraft first flew in 1953 (M-4) with the refined 3M following in 1956. Though initially alarming to Western intelligence, range limitations prevented true intercontinental capability without refuelling. Most were later converted to tanker and maritime reconnaissance roles.
Variants
M-4 Bison-A initial bomber; 3M Bison-B with more powerful engines; 3MD Bison-C maritime reconnaissance; 3MS tanker variant.
Where you'll see it
Served Soviet Long Range Aviation from 1956; converted to tankers supported Tu-22M and other aircraft; all retired by the early 1990s.
Related aircraft
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