B-1B Lancer vs Tu-22M3 Backfire: how to tell them apart

Two combat aircraft that are easy to mix up at a glance. Here is what tells them apart.

B-1B Lancer

Combat aircraft, USA. In service since 1986

What gives it away

Swing-wing bomber with a smoothly blended body, four engines in two pairs under the fuselage and a tall fin.

Used by

USA

Tu-22M3 Backfire

Combat aircraft, Soviet Union. In service since 1983

What gives it away

Swing-wing bomber with two engines buried in the rear fuselage, huge rectangular intakes beside the cockpit and a tall fin.

Used by

Russia

B-1B Lancer · Tu-22M3 Backfire · All guides