Mikoyan MiG-31

Mikoyan

Industry	Aerospace, defense
Founded	1939
Headquarters	Moscow , Russia

Overview

The Mikoyan MiG-31 (Russian: Микоян МиГ-31), known by its NATO reporting name Foxhound, is a supersonic interceptor aircraft engineered by the Mikoyan design bureau for the Soviet Air Forces. It was designed to succeed the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 "Foxbat," sharing several design characteristics with its predecessor.

Regarded as the fastest operational combat aircraft globally, the MiG-31 reaches speeds close to 3,000 km/h (1,600 knots). Following the Cold War and the Soviet Union’s dissolution in 1991, it has remained in active service with the Russian Aerospace Forces. The Kazakh Air Defence Forces, which previously operated the type, phased it out in 2023. According to statements from the Russian Defence Ministry, the MiG-31 is expected to remain operational until at least 2030. This projection was reaffirmed in 2020 when it was announced that the service life of existing airframes would be extended from 2,500 to 3,500 flight hours. The MiG-31K variant is equipped to carry the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missile, which can be armed with either conventional or nuclear warheads.

Background

The MiG-25, a single-seat aircraft, was capable of impressive speed, altitude, and climb rates; however, it showed limited agility during interceptions and proved challenging to operate at lower altitudes. Its speed was generally capped at Mach 2.83, although it could push beyond to at least Mach 3.2, risking potential engine damage in doing so.

File:Russian Air Force Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31BM Pichugin-1.jpg

A Russian Air Force MiG-31BM taking off from Chelyabinsk Shagol Airport, 2012

The development of the MiG-25's successor commenced with the Ye-155MP (Russian: Е-155МП) prototype, which had its maiden flight on 16 September 1975. While it shared some visual similarities with the MiG-25, the new model featured a lengthened fuselage to house a radar operator's cockpit and incorporated numerous novel design elements. A key advancement was the MiG-31’s sophisticated radar system, capable of look-up and look-down/shoot-down functions along with simultaneous tracking of multiple targets. This capability enabled the Soviet Union to counter typical Western threats such as low-flying cruise missiles and bombers from extended distances. The MiG-31 succeeded the Tu-128 as the Soviet Union’s primary long-range interceptor, offering significantly enhanced sensors and weaponry, along with nearly twice the operational range compared to its predecessor.

Similar to the MiG-25’s introduction, early information regarding the MiG-31 was clouded by speculation and misinformation about its features and performance. Western awareness of this new interceptor arose after Lieutenant Viktor Belenko defected to Japan in 1976 with his MiG-25P. Belenko mentioned an upcoming "Super Foxbat" featuring two seats and designed to intercept cruise missiles. He also claimed that the new aircraft would have air intakes resembling those on the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23, a characteristic not present on production versions of the MiG-31.

Production

The MiG-31 entered serial production in 1979. The initial series, manufactured at the Sokol facility between 1976 and 1988, comprised 519 units, including 349 standard variants. Subsequently, from 1989 to 1991, a second batch of 101 MiG-31DZ models was produced. The last series consisted of 69 MiG-31B aircraft built between 1990 and 1994. Following the Soviet Union's collapse, Kazakhstan retained 50 aircraft from this final batch. Additionally, 40 airframes from the original standard models were upgraded to the MiG-31BS configuration.

Upgrades and replacement

Several modernization initiatives have been implemented within the MiG-31 fleet, most notably the MiG-31BM multirole variant. This upgraded model features advanced avionics, a new multimode radar system, HOTAS (hands-on-throttle-and-stick) controls, color multifunction liquid crystal displays (LCD MFDs), compatibility with R-77 air-to-air missiles, and various Russian air-to-ground missile options such as the Kh-31 anti-radiation missile. Enhancements also include a more powerful onboard computer and digital data link capabilities. The Russian program to upgrade its MiG-31 fleet to the BM standard commenced in 2010, aiming to modernize approximately 100 aircraft by 2020. According to Colonel Yuri Balyko of the Russian Defence Ministry, this upgrade significantly amplifies the combat capabilities of the aircraft. In 2014 alone, 18 MiG-31BM units were delivered. By April 2015, Deputy Defence Minister Yuri Borisov reported that over 130 upgraded MiG-31BMs were slated for delivery, with the first 24 already integrated into service.

Plans were set for Russia to initiate development of a MiG-31 successor by 2019 under the designation PAK-DP (Перспективный авиационный комплекс дальнего перехвата), translating to Prospective Air Complex for Long-Range Interception. The project for this next-generation interceptor, known as the MiG-41, began in April 2013 and is preferred over resuming production of the original MiG-31. In March 2014, test pilot Anatoly Kvochur confirmed that work had started on a Mach 4-capable MiG-41 derivative based on the MiG-31 platform. Subsequent reports indicated development was expected to commence in 2017, with initial deliveries projected for 2020 and operational deployment by 2025; however, these milestones have not yet been achieved.

Design

File:Russian Air Force MiG-31 inflight Pichugin.jpg

Russian Air Force MiG-31B in 2011

The MiG-31, similar to the MiG-25, is a sizable twin-engine aircraft featuring air intake ramps positioned on the sides, a shoulder-mounted wing with an aspect ratio of 2.94, and dual vertical stabilizers. However, unlike the MiG-25, it accommodates two crew members, with the rear seat occupied by a dedicated weapon systems officer.

The primary mission roles intended for the MiG-31 include:

• Rapid interception of cruise missiles and their launch platforms by minimizing time to missile engagement range after leaving patrol zones
• Detection and neutralization of low-altitude cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and helicopters
• Extended-range escort for strategic bomber aircraft
• Strategic air defense coverage in regions beyond the reach of ground-based air defense networks

When operating at supersonic velocities, the MiG-31 is restricted to a maximum load factor of five g. Under combat weight conditions, its wing loading is only moderate, and it benefits from a favorable thrust-to-weight ratio. The aircraft is not engineered for close-range dogfighting or agile maneuvering.

Compared to the MiG-25, the MiG-31’s wings and fuselage are reinforced to enable supersonic flight at low altitudes. Its flight control surfaces are primarily constructed from nickel-steel alloy, which allows it to withstand aerodynamic heating at speeds approaching Mach 3. The airframe composition consists of approximately 49% arc-welded nickel steel, 33% lightweight metal alloys, 16% titanium, and 2% composite materials. Powered by two Aviadvigatel D30-F6 engines each delivering 152 kN of thrust, the MiG-31 can reach a maximum speed of Mach 1.23 at low altitude. While its thrust-to-drag ratio supports speeds above Mach 3 at high altitude, operational limits restrict it to Mach 2.83 due to temperature-related constraints that could compromise engine and airframe longevity.

Electronics suite

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MiG-31BM equipped with Zaslon phased-array radar

The MiG-31 was among the pioneering aircraft to integrate a phased-array radar system. This radar can detect fighter-sized targets up to approximately 200 km away and track as many as ten targets simultaneously while engaging up to four using Vympel R-33 missiles. Complementing this radar is an infrared search and track (IRST) system housed in a retractable under-nose pod.

Its avionics include digital secure datalinks RK-RLDN and APD-518. The RK-RLDN link facilitates communication with ground control stations, whereas the APD-518 enables four MiG-31s flying within 200 km of each other to automatically exchange radar data. This system also allows aircraft with less advanced avionics—such as MiG-23s, MiG-25s, MiG-29s, Su-15s, and Su-27s—to be guided toward targets detected by the MiG-31 (with up to four long-range targets designated per interceptor). Additionally, coordination between the Beriev A-50 airborne early warning platform and MiG-31s allows automatic sharing of airborne and ground radar target information as well as air defense coordination. The interceptor is also equipped with electronic countermeasures covering both radar and infrared spectra.

The navigation suite comprises an automatic control system SAU-155МP along with the KN-25 sighting-navigation complex featuring dual inertial navigation systems and an IP-1-72A digital computer. Long-range electronic navigation is provided via Radical NP (312) or A-331 systems, supplemented by the A-723 electronic navigation system. For distant radio navigation, it employs two systems: Chayka (analogous to LORAN) and Route (similar to Omega).Template:Fix/category

Much like the S-300 missile system, groups of aircraft equipped with APD-518 can share multi-directional radar data—both active and passive emissions—and consolidate target information. Targets may be detected passively through emissions such as jamming or radar use or actively through coordinated scanning from multiple platforms (including the MiG-31’s own radar). All aircraft within this network maintain consistent situational awareness even if not directly engaged in search operations.

• Integration with ground-based automated digital control systems like ACS «Rubezh», which operates within a radius of approximately 2000 km and can manage multiple aircraft groups remotely; supports semi-autonomous targeting coordination as well as directing missiles launched from other assets.
• A digital immune communication system enables automatic tactical data exchange among four interceptors spaced up to 200 km apart; these interceptors can also guide fighters with less capable avionics by acting as command nodes or repeaters.

A squadron of four MiG-31 interceptors can effectively monitor an airspace corridor extending between 800 and 900 km in length, utilizing radars capable of detecting targets at ranges up to 200 km with a typical frontal detection width near 225 km.

Radars

File:MIG-31Datalink.jpg

Illustration depicting how a quartet of MiG-31 aircraft can monitor an area extending up to 1,000 km (620 mi), with the lead aircraft relaying data to allied fighters.

Introduced in 1981, the RP-31 N007 Backstop (Russian: Zaslon) radar system offers the following capabilities:

• Detection range for aerial targets with Zaslon-A reaches approximately 200 km (120 mi) when encountering a radar cross-section (RCS) of 19 m² at a collision angle, with a 50% probability
• Targets featuring an RCS of 3 m² (32 sq ft) can be identified from behind within about 35 km (22 mi), also with a 50% detection chance
• The radar can track up to 24 targets simultaneously, an increase from the initial capacity of 10
• It can engage up to 6 targets concurrently, improved from the original capability of 4
• Automatic tracking extends to roughly 120 kilometres (75 mi)
• Infrared signature detection is effective within 56 kilometres (35 mi)
• The system performs well in identifying cruise missiles and other threats amidst ground clutter interference
• Up until the year 2000, it held the distinction of being the only operational fighter equipped with a phased array radar, a status maintained until the Mitsubishi F-2 entered service featuring the J/APG-1 active phased array radar
• It possesses the ability to intercept and neutralize cruise missiles flying at very low altitudes

Variant differences

Key distinctions between the MiG-31BM and other versions include the following:

• The MiG-31BM's onboard radar system is capable of simultaneously tracking 24 aerial targets, with the capacity to engage up to six of them at once using R-33 missiles.
• Updated aircraft models can carry a variety of weapons, including up to six anti-radiation missiles such as Kh-31, Kh-25MR, or MPU, as well as six anti-ship Kh-31A missiles. Additionally, they can be armed with air-to-surface missiles like Kh-29 and Kh-59 (up to three units), or two Kh-59M missiles, alongside precision-guided bombs—either up to six KAB-1500 or eight KAB-500 equipped with television or laser guidance. The maximum payload weight reaches 9,000 kilograms (20,000 lb).Template:Fix/category
• The standard MiG-31M, MiG-31D, and MiG-31BM models feature an enhanced Zaslon-M radar system, which includes a larger antenna offering an extended detection range—reportedly up to 400 kilometres (250 mi) against targets comparable in size to AWACS aircraft—and the capability to simultaneously engage multiple air and ground targets. The Zaslon-M antenna measures 1.4 m (4.6 ft) in diameter, delivering performance improvements between 50% and 100% over the original Zaslon radar. In April 1994, it successfully guided an R-37 missile to a target at a distance of 300 kilometres (190 mi). This radar can search for targets with a radar cross-section of approximately 19–20 m² (200–220 sq ft) at ranges up to 400 km (250 mi), tracking 24 targets simultaneously and engaging six of them, or detect smaller 5 m² (54 sq ft) targets at around 282 km (175 mi). The system's relative velocity detection has been enhanced from Mach 5 to Mach 6, increasing effectiveness against high-speed threats. Among Soviet aircraft, the MiG-31BM stands out as one of the few capable of intercepting and neutralizing cruise missiles flying at extremely low altitudes.

Cockpit

File:Cockpit of Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31 (2).jpg

Front seat cockpit of an older MiG-31 variant

The MiG-31 features a tandem two-seat arrangement, with the radar systems managed by the rear occupant. While both cockpits have duplicated controls, operationally the aircraft is typically piloted from the front seat only. The pilot manipulates the aircraft using a centre stick and left-hand throttle controls. The rear cockpit is equipped with just two small side canopy windows for visibility. Having a dedicated Weapon Systems Operator (WSO) in the rear cockpit enhances combat effectiveness by allowing that crew member to focus exclusively on radar management and weapons control, thereby reducing the pilot's workload and improving overall mission efficiency. Both seats are equipped with zero-zero ejection seats, enabling safe ejection at any altitude or speed.

Armament

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A Russian Air Force MiG-31BM armed with R-33 missiles.

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A Russian Aerospace Forces MiG-31BM equipped with a Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missile.

The primary weapon system of the MiG-31 consists of four R-33 air-to-air missiles (NATO reporting name AA-9 'Amos') mounted beneath the fuselage.

• A single GSh-6-23 23 mm (0.91 in) rotary cannon is installed, carrying 260 rounds. (Notably, its predecessor, the MiG-25, lacked an onboard cannon.)
• The aircraft’s fuselage contains bays designed to house four R-33 (AA-9 'Amos') or, in the MiG-31BM variant, four R-37 (AA-13 'Arrow') missiles.
• There are four underwing pylons supporting up to six hardpoints for additional ordnance or fuel tanks; two of these can be used to mount removable fuel tanks.
  • Six long-range R-37 air-to-air missiles capable of ranges up to approximately 280 kilometres (170 mi).
  • Four R-33 long-range missiles with an effective range near 300 kilometres (190 mi).
  • Kh-31 (AS-17 'Krypton') air-to-ground missiles designed for high-speed targets capable of maneuvering up to 8 g, with a range around 200 kilometres (120 mi).
  • Variants of the R-33 missile include the original 1981 model with a range of about 120 kilometres (75 mi), and the improved R-33S introduced in 1999 extending range to approximately 160 kilometres (99 mi).
  • Two to four medium-range R-40TD1 (AA-6 'Acrid') missiles can be carried; these have engagement ranges between 50 kilometres (31 mi) and 80 kilometres (50 mi) and were originally used on the MiG-25P since 1970. They are effective at altitudes from roughly 0.5–3 kilometres (0.31–1.86 mi) and can handle target maneuvers up to 4 g.
  • Four short-range R-60 (AA-8 'Aphid') missiles.
    • Four R-73 (AA-11 'Archer') short-range infrared-guided missiles.
    • Four medium-range R-77 (AA-12 'Adder') missiles capable of engaging agile targets maneuvering at up to 12 g, with a range near 100 kilometres (62 mi).
• Select aircraft are configured for Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) missions and can deploy Kh-31P (AS-17 'Krypton') and Kh-58 (AS-11 'Kilter') anti-radiation missiles. Additionally, they can carry anti-ship Kh-31A missiles (up to six), air-to-surface Kh-59 or Kh-29T missiles (up to three), or X-59M variants (up to two units). For ground attack roles, they can also be equipped with up to six KAB-1500 bombs or eight KAB-500 bombs featuring television or laser guidance systems. The maximum combat payload capacity reaches approximately 9,000 kilograms (20,000 lb).
• The MiG-31K variant is uniquely outfitted to carry one Kh-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic ballistic missile, which boasts an operational range near 2,000 km (1,200 mi) including launch distance from the carrier aircraft and achieves speeds around Mach 10. This missile can be armed with either conventional or nuclear warheads. This capability provides the MiG-31 with extended strike functionality beyond its principal interceptor mission.

Operational history

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Side perspective of a MiG-31 belonging to the 790th Fighter Order of Kutuzov Aviation Regiment, positioned on the runway at Khotilovo airbase, Tver region.

File:Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound formation - Zhukovsky 2012 (8710851439).jpg

In-flight formation featuring a MiG-31B on the left and a MiG-31BM on the right.

The MiG-31 entered serial production in 1979 and was officially inducted into service with the Soviet Air Defence Forces (PVO) by 1981.

Throughout the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, MiG-31 aircraft reportedly engaged and downed multiple Ukrainian planes, predominantly utilizing the extended-range R-37 air-to-air missile. By maintaining operations at elevated speeds and altitudes, MiG-31s have been able to conduct missions with minimal opposition, as Ukrainian fighters lack the necessary speed, altitude capability, and range to effectively challenge them.

As of 8 September 2024, visual confirmations indicate the loss of three MiG-31BMs. Two of these were destroyed during Ukrainian missile strikes on Belbek airfield in Russian-occupied Crimea on 15 May 2024. The third was lost in a takeoff accident at the same location on 1 October 2022; satellite imagery reveals clear wreckage after the aircraft ran off the runway, fell off a cliff, and detonated.

Since October 2022, the R-37M missile has emerged as the primary threat to the Ukrainian Air Force. Ukrainian pilots have faced significant limitations due to a shortage of fire-and-forget missile systems, relying instead on semi-active radar homing missiles such as the R-27ER and R-27ET, with the R-27ER’s range around 60 mi (97 km). These require continuous radar illumination by the pilot to guide them to their targets. In contrast, Russian pilots equipped with active-radar fire-and-forget R-77 missiles can launch and then maneuver away immediately. Consequently, Ukrainian pilots have had to utilize tactics like exploiting terrain masking and ground clutter to get within firing range before being detected. Early in the conflict both sides experienced aircraft losses; Ukraine compensated by refurbishing older airframes for combat use. The Russian Aerospace Forces’ deployment of MiG-31s armed with R-37M missiles—boasting ranges up to 200 mi (320 km) combined with advanced radar systems—has resulted in increased Ukrainian aircraft attrition. Reports from the Royal United Services Institute noted that during October, approximately six R-37Ms were launched daily against Ukrainian forces. Additionally, four MiG-31s were stationed in Crimea. To counter this threat, Ukraine has attempted to neutralize MiG-31s while grounded through strikes such as those targeting Belbek airbase and an attempted drone attack in August.

On 4 May 2023, Ukrainian Air Force commander General Mykola Oleschuk reported that a Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missile launched from a MiG-31K within Russian territory was intercepted by Ukraine’s Patriot air defense system protecting Kyiv. This interception was confirmed by Ukraine using US-supplied Patriot batteries defending the Kyiv region.

On 15 May 2024, officials installed by Russia in Crimea reported missile strikes causing explosions and fires near Belbek airfield. Some missiles—likely ATACMS—delivered cluster munitions onto the site. Photographic and satellite evidence confirmed destruction of at least two Russian ground-based air defense units and probable loss of two MiG-31s, alongside damage to a fuel depot and one Su-27 fighter.

The morning of 16 May 2023 saw six Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles launched toward Kyiv from six MiG-31Ks according to Ukrainian sources. While Ukraine asserts all missiles were intercepted, US officials suggest one may have inflicted damage on a Patriot launcher battery; however, conclusive evidence remains limited.

On 19 September 2025, after Finnish fighters intercepted three MiG-31s over the Gulf of Finland, these aircraft proceeded into Estonian airspace without filing flight plans or responding to radio communications; their transponders were also switched off. Remaining inside Estonian territory for about twelve minutes, they were eventually escorted back to Russia by Italian F-35 jets. Estonia responded by invoking NATO’s Article 4 consultations regarding this violation.

Export

In 1992, Russia proposed the MiG-31 to Finland, which was conducting a selection process for a new fighter aircraft, although this model was not formally entered into the competition. Instead, Russia submitted the MiG-29 for consideration. Finland ultimately declined the MiG-31 offer and proceeded with selecting their new fighter through the established program.

In 2007, Syria placed an order for eight MiG-31E jets intended for the Syrian Air Force. However, this contract was halted in May 2009, reportedly due either to Israeli diplomatic pressure or financial constraints within Syria.

Variants

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MiG-31M showcased at the 1995 MAKS air show, Ramenskoye airport

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Underside view of a MiG-31BM

Ye-155MP (MiG-25MP)

This early prototype version of the MiG-31 first took flight on 16 September 1975.

MiG-31

The initial production model with a total of 349 units manufactured.

MiG-31M

An advanced iteration whose development started in 1984 and first flew in 1985. The collapse of the Soviet Union prevented it from entering mass production. Features included a one-piece curved windshield, smaller side windows in the rear cockpit, and an enlarged dorsal spine. It incorporated digital flight controls, multifunction CRT displays in the cockpit, and a multi-mode phased array radar. This variant omitted a gun, relocated the refueling probe to the starboard side, and expanded fuselage weapon stations from four to six by adding two centerline pylons. Maximum takeoff weight increased to 52,000 kg (115,000 lb) with upgraded D-30F6M engines replacing the earlier D-30F6 powerplants. One prototype and six pre-production aircraft were completed.

MiG-31D

Two units designated Type 31D served as specialized anti-satellite platforms. They featured ballast in place of radars in the nose, a flat underside without recessed weapon bays, and large winglets above and below the wingtips. These were armed with Vympel ASAT missiles. Two prototypes were constructed.

MiG-31LL

A unique flying testbed variant used specifically for evaluating ejection seat performance during flight.

MiG-31 01DZ

A two-seat interceptor capable of all-weather and all-altitude operations. When equipped with an air-to-air refueling probe, it is referred to as MiG-31 01DZ. Approximately one hundred units of this DZ variant were produced.

MiG-31B

The second production series introduced in 1990 featured upgraded avionics and an aerial refueling probe. This upgrade was prompted by Soviet concerns following engineer Adolf Tolkachev’s espionage involving advanced radar technology sold to Western entities. Enhancements included improved electronic countermeasures (ECM), electronic warfare (EW) systems, integration with upgraded R-33S missiles, and compatibility with long-range navigation systems such as Loran/Omega and Chaka ground stations. This model superseded the 01DZ variant by late 1990.

MiG-31E

An export-oriented variant derived from the MiG-31B featuring simplified avionics but never entering serial production.

MiG-31BS

The designation given to MiG-31 01DZ aircraft converted to meet MiG-31B specifications.

MiG-31BM

Following successful state trials in 2008, this extensively modernized version of the MiG-31B was authorized for service within Russia’s air force. Under a 2011 contract, fifty aircraft were upgraded to the MiG-31BM (Bolshaya Modernizatsiya or Big Modernization) standard. The modernization improved operational effectiveness by a factor of approximately 2.6 compared to the baseline model. The upgraded radar’s maximum detection range extended to 320 km (200 mi), capable of automatically tracking up to ten targets simultaneously, with newer units tracking as many as twenty-four and engaging up to eight targets at once. The original Argon-K computer was replaced by the Baget 55-06 system, which prioritizes four high-threat targets for simultaneous engagement using long-range R-33S air-to-air missiles. Additionally, a new hypersonic missile R-37 (missile) capable of Mach 6 speeds and ranges up to 400 km (250 mi) was developed alongside this upgrade. The MiG-31BM possesses multi-role capabilities including deployment of anti-radar, anti-shipping, and air-to-ground munitions. Some avionics are shared with the MiG-29SMT platform. It retains an aerial refueling probe. This variant also set a sustained flight endurance record by remaining airborne for seven hours and four minutes while covering 8,000 km (5,000 mi).

MiG-31BSM

A further modernization of the BS model contracted in 2014 for sixty aircraft upgrades. It shares many similarities with the BM standard but incorporates an air refueling probe absent on BS models. Improvements include enhanced canopy glass with greater heat resistance allowing sustained cruise speeds of 3,000 km/h (1,900 mph) over extended distances without damage. The aircraft features a faster Baget-55-06 central computer along with multiple multifunctional displays—one dedicated to the pilot and three assigned to the weapons operator/navigator—and updated navigation systems. Its multi-role capabilities encompass use of anti-radar, anti-shipping, and air-to-ground missiles. A distinctive external feature is a rear-view periscope mounted above the front cockpit canopy.

MiG-31K

A specialized modification of the MiG-31BM designed to carry the hypersonic Kh-47M2 Kinzhal ALBM. By May 2018, ten aircraft had been converted for this role. With removal of its auxiliary power unit previously used for air-to-air missile operations, this variant functions exclusively as an attack platform.

MiG-31F

A proposed fighter-bomber variant equipped with TV, radar, and laser-guided anti-ship missile systems that never progressed beyond planning stages.

MiG-31FE

Intended as an export version of the MiG-31F that was never produced.

MiG-31I (Ishim)

A conceptual modification aimed at launching small spacecraft into orbit via air launch capability carrying payloads between 160 kilograms (350 lb) to 300 kilometres (190 mi) altitude or up to 120 kilograms (260 lb) payloads reaching orbits near 600 kilometres (370 mi) altitude.

MiG-31 (Izdeliye 08)

A conversion of MiG-31 aircraft into launch platforms for the Izdeliye 293 Burevestnik anti-satellite missile. At least two such prototypes have been modified with testing commencing in September 2018.

MiG-31I

The latest iteration reportedly includes enhancements such as in-flight refueling capability along with updated engines, avionics suites, missile systems, fly-by-wire controls, and an electronic remote control system enabling Kinzhal missile launches at predetermined moments. It is anticipated that all existing MiG-31K units will be upgraded to this configuration. Flight testing concluded in April 2024.

Operators

Template:RUS

• Russian Aerospace Forces
  • 4th Centre for Combat Application and Crew Training located in Savasleyka
  • 22nd Fighter Aviation Regiment based at Tsentralnaya Uglovaya
  • 98th Independent Composite Aviation Regiment stationed in Monchegorsk
  • 764th Fighter Aviation Regiment operating from Perm/Bolshoye Savino
  • 712th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment positioned at Kansk
  • 790th Fighter Aviation Regiment located at Khotilovo/Borisovskiy
  • 929th V.P. Chkalova State Flight Test Centre situated in Akhtubinsk
    • Between 85 and 131 MiG-31BM aircraft were recorded in the fleet as of 2020. The delivery of upgraded units, refurbished from older airframes, is ongoing as of 2024. Ten of these aircraft have been converted to the MiG-31K variant, equipped with the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missile since May 2018. This modification, which involved removal of the auxiliary power unit for air-to-air missiles, redefined the aircraft’s role exclusively as an attack platform.
• Russian Naval Aviation
  • 7060th Naval Aviation Air Base located at Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy/Yelizovo
    • Inventory as of 2020 includes 10 MiG-31B/BS and 22 MiG-31BM aircraft.

Previous Operators

Template:USSR

• Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, aircraft formerly operated by the Soviet Air Forces were transferred to the Russian and Kazakh Air Forces.
• Soviet Air Defence Forces

Template:KAZ

• Kazakh Air Defense Forces
  • 610th Air Base (Sary-Arka Airport)
    • By 2022, the fleet consisted of 31 aircraft. The model was phased out in 2023 and subsequently offered for auction. Reports indicate that these aircraft were sold to the United States in April 2024. However, the identity of the purchaser remains uncertain, as Kazakh authorities maintain that only domestic companies were permitted to participate in the bidding process.

Significant Incidents

On 4 April 1984, a MiG-31 crashed during a test flight, resulting in the deaths of Mikoyan's lead test pilot, Aleksandr Vasilyevich Fedotov, and his navigator V. Zaitsev.

On 26 April 2017, a MiG-31 was downed by "friendly fire" amid a training exercise near the Telemba proving ground located in the Russian Far East. Both crew members successfully ejected. While official Russian media did not provide details, independent investigators uncovered leaked government documents revealing that the aircraft had been struck by an R-33 missile launched from another MiG-31. The incident was attributed to pilot error on both sides and highlighted potential malfunctions in the Zaslon-AM radar and Baget-55 fire control systems, which may elevate the risk of accidental shootdowns.

On 16 April 2020, a MiG-31 belonging to the Kazakh Air Force crashed within Kazakhstan’s Karaganda region; both pilots ejected safely.

On 8 April 2022, a MiG-31 operated by the Russian Aerospace Forces crashed in the Leningrad region.

On 2 December 2022, during a training flight over Primorsky Krai in Russia’s Far East, a MiG-31 of the Russian Aerospace Forces crashed; the crew successfully ejected.

On 26 April 2023, a Russian Aerospace Forces MiG-31 crashed during training in northern Murmansk Oblast; reports confirm that the pilots ejected and survived.

On 4 July 2023, another MiG-31 from the Russian Aerospace Forces went down during a training mission over Avacha Bay.

Specifications (MiG-31)

File:Mikoyan MiG-31 3-view.svg

Three-view illustration of the MiG-31

File:Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31E landing at Sormovo (2007).jpg

MiG-31E during landing, brake chute deployed

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MiG-31BM taking off with afterburner engaged

See also

Bibliography

• Template:Fix/category