Long-range bombers retain reconnaissance duties alongside their strike roles. The Badger also becomes an important electronic-warfare aircraft within Soviet naval aviation. At some points, its ability to interfere with fleet radars can make it a greater concern than newer bombers carrying weapons. That interference can conceal the aircraft approaching to make the actual attack. A supporting bomber therefore remains part of the threat even when it carries no strike weapon of its own.
Notable Point · 1:25:22-1:26:27
Why an unarmed Badger could still threaten a fleet
Badger reconnaissance and electronic-warfare aircraft can help other attackers penetrate naval defences by interfering with radar detection.