[8] Technical parameters of the PAK DA include subsonic speed, 12,000-kilometre (7,500 mi) operational range and a capability to continuously remain in the air for up to 30 hours while carrying both conventional and nuclear payloads up to 30 tons.
In December 2007, the Russian Air Force handed to Tupolev Design Bureau the first set of technical and tactical requirements for a new strategic bomber and financing of the programme began in 2008.
[11] In June 2012, then-Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin questioned the need for a new long-range bomber, pointing out the progress in aerial and anti-missile defence technology, saying "these aircraft will not get anywhere.
[citation needed] In March 2013, it was reported that the selected PAK DA design would be a subsonic flying wing with emphasis on stealth technology rather than supersonic speeds.
[23] In July 2015, representatives from the United Instrument Manufacturing Corporation (UIMC), now part of Roselectronics, announced the company is developing "one-of-a-kind communications system" for the bomber.
[26][27] The engine is to provide the PAK DA with a capability to perform 30 hours nonstop flight while being resistant to temperatures from minus 60°C to plus 50°C and even effects of a nuclear explosion.
[34] On 24 December 2020, according to a TASS source in the Russian military-industrial complex, it was reported that there were now several PAK DA being assembled at the same time at the Kazan aircraft plant.
[36] On 22 July 2021, the general director of NPP Zvezda announced at the 2021 MAKS air show that the ejection seats for the PAK DA were under development and should be handed over to Tupolev in 2023.
[38] On 2 August 2021, it was announced that a new long-range nuclear-capable hypersonic cruise missile, the Kh-95,[39] was under development, to be fitted inside the PAK DA's weapon bay.
[40] On 25 November 2021, it was reported that the first PAK DA prototype was in final stage of assembly and would start ground tests in 2022, with the first flight scheduled for late 2024 or early 2025.
[44] Similarly, on 10 August 2023, the eve of the "Army-2023" International Military-Technical Forum, Vladimir Artyakov, First Deputy General Director of Rostec claimed that "work on the PAK DA project is carried out in the mode established by the approved schedule," meaning that the first prototype should thenceforth be rolled-out in 2023.