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Russian strategic bombers take part for first time in Aviadarts contest closing ceremony

Those are Tupolev Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 long-range bombers

© Russian Defense Ministry Press Service/TASS

DYAGILEVO AIRFIELD /Ryazan Region/, August 11. /TASS/. Russian Tupolev Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 long-range bombers took part for the first time in the closing ceremony of the Aviadarts international Air Force contest.

An air show with the participation of the Russian Aerospace Force’s aerobatic groups also took place near Ryazan in central Russia to wrap up the Aviadarts contest, the contest’s press office said.

"The fly-over of long-range aircraft was not indicated in the program of festive events. Two strategic Tu-95 missile-carrying bombers suddenly appeared on the horizon and flew at a low altitude over the aerodrome. They were followed by long-range Tu-22M3 bombers that flew in a wedge in a dense formation," the contest’s press office said.

The Aviadarts competition of the International Army Games involving pilots from four countries began near Ryazan on July 29. Overall, more than 60 aircraft and helicopters participated in it, including over 30 crews from China, Belarus and Kazakhstan.

The competition’s main trophy, the Aviadarts Cup, went to Russian military pilots who won the contest in five out of seven categories. The second place was secured by pilots from China by the number of points scored. The team of military pilots from Kazakhstan finished the contest in the third place.

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