The plot is based on a story-interview about the testing of the new strategic missile carrier Tu-22K and Tu-22M2/M3 and the tragic events associated with them, given to journalist Odintsov by test pilot Borovsky. Testing of a new jet aircraft, the psychology of human life, the problems and joys of life of pilots - all this is closely intertwined in the film. The heroes of the film - friends test pilots Dolotov and Sanin - have walked together all their lives. But it so happened that one of them, Dolotov, was once unfairly suspended from flying, while Sanin failed to protect and support his friend.