✈️ Aircraft Specifications
| Designation | MiG-31BM |
| Manufacturer | Mikoyan |
| Country of Origin | Russia/Soviet Union |
| First Flight | 1975 |
| Length | 22.69 m (74.4 ft) |
| Max Speed (Mach) | 2.83 |
| Max Speed (km/h) | 3,000 km/h |
| Service Ceiling | 20,600 m (67,589 ft) |
| Range | 1,450 km (900 mi) |
| Engine | 2× Aviadvigatel D-30F6 turbofans |
| Crew | 2 |
| Status | Active |
Overview
The MiG-31 Foxhound is the world’s fastest combat aircraft currently in active service, capable of sustained Mach 2.83 flight. Developed as a replacement for the MiG-25, it features a vastly improved Zaslon phased array radar—the first PESA radar fitted to any fighter in the world.
Design & Development
While externally similar to the MiG-25, the MiG-31 is largely a new aircraft with D-30F6 turbofan engines (vs turbojets), a two-seat crew, and the groundbreaking Zaslon radar capable of tracking 10 targets and engaging 4 simultaneously at ranges up to 200 km. Four MiG-31s can control an 800 km-wide front.
Operational History
The MiG-31 has been modernized multiple times, with the latest MiG-31BM/BSM variants receiving new avionics and weapons. It serves as the launch platform for the Kinzhal hypersonic missile. Russia maintains approximately 130 MiG-31s in service and plans to operate them until at least 2030.
Armament
- 1× GSh-6-23M 23mm cannon (260 rounds)
- 4× R-33 (AA-9 Amos) long-range missiles (120 km)
- 2× R-60 short-range missiles
- R-37M ultra-long-range (300 km!)
- Kinzhal hypersonic missile (Mach 10, 2000 km range)
The MiG-31 is the launch platform for Russia’s Kinzhal hypersonic weapon.
Video
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the MiG-31 Foxhound?
The MiG-31 has a top speed of Mach 2.83 (1,865 mph). It is the fastest combat aircraft currently in operational service.
What is the MiG-31’s Zaslon radar?
The Zaslon was the world’s first fighter-mounted phased array radar. It tracks 10 targets and engages 4 simultaneously at up to 200 km range.
How many MiG-31s were built?
Over 500 MiG-31s were built.
Is the MiG-31 still in service?
Yes. Upgraded MiG-31BM variants are in active Russian service and carry Kinzhal hypersonic missiles.