Putin dusts off military image, flies in bomber
President Vladimir Putin flew in Russia's most potent bomber on Tuesday and took part in the launch of cruise missiles in the Arctic, dusting off a military image he cultivated when he first came to power.
The TU-160, or Blackjack, took Putin to major naval exercises in Russia's frigid north just days after the country's second most senior admiral accused the navy of bungling the rescue of seven submariners.
Itar-Tass news agency said Putin's plane was accompanied by two TU-160s during the flight. Interfax said there were three Blackjacks altogether on the mission....
Smiling Putin, dressed in full pilot's gear, said in televised comments after landing he enjoyed the flight....
--Reuters
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UPDATE: Even more of resemblance than I realized:
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