Unmanned reconnaissance Tu-143 flight (8 photos)

In the mid-sixties Tupolev began to create new systems of unmanned reconnaissance tactical and operational purpose.
The complex tactical intelligence "Flight" was developed and tested as soon as possible. In December 1970, the first successful flight of the Tu-143 UAV.



Tu-143, "Flight" - reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Intended for conducting tactical reconnaissance on the front line at a depth of 60-70 km by photographing and television exploration area targets and individual routes, as well as monitoring the radiation situation along the route of flight. Is part of the complex of BP-3. QRS complex was perfected in the 4th Air Force Center for operational use.



The new complex was quickly mastered the troops and was praised as a safe, highly effective tactical intelligence. Designed and built by order of the Air Force, the complex became widespread in the Army, and was also used in other branches of the armed forces.



Serial production of Tu-143 continued until 1989. Total production of 950 aircraft. Is exported to Romania, Syria, Czechoslovakia (now there is a Chehiii, and Slovakia). In combat conditions used in Lebanon in the early 80s. Samples of the Tu-143 on display at the exhibition at the Central Airport in Moscow and in the Air Force Museum in Monino.