TU-126 Codename: Moss

The Tu-126 was the USSR's answer to the EC-121 Warning Star AEWC aircraft. These aircraft were modifed by the Tupolev from thier Tu-114 long range civilian airliner. These aircraft served with the Soviet Air Force and the Soviet Air Defense Command from their introduction in the early 60's until thier retirement in 1984. This aircraft was replaced by the A-50 Mainstay in 1985. The Tu-126 was considered a poor comparision to both the EC-121's and the E-3 Sentry.