Myasishchev M-4 Molot

The Myasishchev M‑4 Molot, also known as the 'Bison', was the Soviet Union’s first strategic bomber capable of delivering a nuclear payload across intercontinental distances. Developed by the Myasishchev Design Bureau in the early 1950s, the aircraft made its maiden flight on 31 March 1953 and entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1955. Powered by four Dobrynin RD-7 turbo‑jets, each producing roughly 11 500 kgf of thrust, the M‑4 could cruise at 950 km/h and reach a maximum range of about 10 500 km with a full bomb load. Its distinctive swept‑wing layout, twin tail fins and pressurised crew compartments allowed high‑altitude operations up to 13 000 m. The bomber carried up to 24 000 kg of conventional or nuclear weapons, and later variants were equipped with a defensive radar‑guided tail gun and electronic counter‑measure suites. Although initially hampered by reliability problems and limited payload capacity compared with later designs, the M‑4 established the USSR’s strategic air‑power and formed the backbone of its long‑range bomber fleet throughout the Cold War. The aircraft’s development paved the way for more advanced platforms such as the Tupolev Tu‑95 and the modern Myasishchev M‑55, underscoring its lasting impact on aviation history.

Myasishchev Design Bureau

Myasishchev M-4 Molot

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Design & Classification