Myasishchev M-4 and 3M: The First Soviet Strategic Jet Bomber

When the Myasishchev design bureau was reborn in 1951, it was immediately tasked with creating a high—speed strategic bomber to balance the threat posed by NATO’s heavy bombers, notably the B—52. Designated M—4 and code—named "Bison" by NATO, the new four—turbojet bomber was developed within an incredibly short time—just one year. It made use of many innovative features, including a bicycle landing gear, and was designed around the most powerful jet engine of the day. It became the progenit...