Russia Starts Developing Long-Range Interceptor to Replace MiG-31 Jets

Russia’s state-owned Rostec has announced the development of a new long-range interceptor designated MiG-41 (PAK DP) to replace MiG-31 jets.

MiG-31 fighters first entered service in 1981. It is the first Soviet aircraft of fourth generation.

As per older reports, MiG-41 will be a supersonic, heavy, stealthy interceptor aircraft. Russian defense analyst Vasily Kashin has previously said that the MiG-41 would be considered as a 5++ or 6th generation project. The design of the MiG-41 was reportedly finalized by the end of 2019.

Izvestia has reported earlier that the MiG-41 is envisioned to become an interceptor of hypersonic missiles by carrying a multifunctional long-range interceptor missile system (MPKR DP) that will dispense several sub-missiles in order to increase the chance of intercepting hypersonic weapons. The PAK DP is also intended to carry anti-satellite missiles.

In an interview for Russia Today, the Director General of RSK MiG, Ilya Tarasenko, said the jet would be armed with an anti-missile laser, would be capable of operating at very high altitudes and even in near space. He also stated that it could be transformed into an unmanned version later.

Russian media have speculated that the MiG-41 could be built on the basis of Su-57 with a different configuration and a modified airframe in order to be able to reach a maximum speed of over Mach 4.9 and cruising speed of Mach 2-2.4. The PAK DP is likely to use Izdeliye 30 engines that powers the Su-57.

MiG-31BM Jet

Currently, the MiG-31 jets are being upgraded to the BM version. The entire MiG-31 fleet will be modernized by 2023.