Preserved Tu-95 Bear question

[hahnej]

Growing up in the 1980's I remember frequent TV footage of U.S. fighters intercepting or escorting Soviet Bears near our borders or over our fleets. It was one of the most common events of that period of the cold war.

I wonder if there is any way the NMUSAF could get a Bear for display after they add the next hangar? I know it is a monster aircraft, but I think it would be fitting to represent the post-Vietnam to Desert Storm era.

I know, absolutely crazy, but like that I still think one of the retired shuttles should be displayed with the boosters and tank, no matter how big the building would have to be....(from earlier post).

[hpulleyiv]

We're still turning back Bears up here with the CF-18s! Are there any Tu-95 craft of service yet? From most reports it sounds like they'll be flying for many years to come.

[mustangdriver]

At one time the NMUSAF was offered one, and I believe they accepted the offer, however that was before they started flying them again.

[Old SAR pilot]

Demise of a BEAR at:
http://englishrussia.com/index.php/2010 ... more-11914

[k5083]

Usually in these situations a swap works well. What would the US offer in trade? Maybe a U-2?

August

[airnutz]

What would the US offer in trade? Maybe a U-2?

Given their situation, maybe a freighter full of wheat?

Sure would like to see a Bear visit the airshow circuit...quite a sight and sound!

[Old SAR pilot]

Couple of BEARs did visit the US in 1992 (well, Barksdale AFB, LA anyway). seen here:

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:B-52_&_Tu-95.jpg

[Pogmusic]

An easy swap of a B-52 for Tu-95.

[T J Johansen]

Usually in these situations a swap works well. What would the US offer in trade? Maybe a U-2?

August

Don't they already have one...

T J

[wendovertom]

It sure is interesting to see the difference in size between the B-52 and the Bear!

Tom P.

[robkamm]

i think there is one on ebay right now. there was a older post about it.