While it' a very interesting project, as previously mentioned - how it ever got beyond the " Just a thought " stage to real thing defies belief...
Speaking as a yachtie as well as aviation fan, I reckon nothing could spoil more peopl'e day quicker than seeing one of these things roaring towards you !
Not exactly a steathy thing to base anywhere the U.S. Carriers might go without them knowing about it - Gerry Anderson wouldn't have agreed to this one...
Presumably someone knew someone in Soviet air bureaux & 'govt', and another someone a bit lower just had to say " yes Sir ! " after spluttering into their Vokdka.