UAC Hands Over MiG-31 Aircraft to Russian Aerospace Forces

The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has delivered the first batches of repaired and modernized MiG-31 aircraft to the Russian Ministry of Defense this year.

The aircraft, after a series of ground and flight tests, have been dispatched to their permanent bases. “The modernized MiG-31 aircraft have high combat characteristics and are capable of successfully solving tasks in modern conditions,” UAC said.

The Nizhny Novgorod aircraft plant "Sokol," a UAC subsidiary, carried out the modernization. The upgrades included enhancements to the weapons control system, onboard radar, data exchange systems, and cockpit indicator equipment. A new terminal for tactical information exchange was also installed.

The MiG-31BMs now feature the RP-31MA Zaslon-AM weapon control system and 8BM radar, with a new Baget-55-06 digital computer. This system detects targets up to 320 km away, tracks 24 targets, and engages six simultaneously. It can detect high-speed targets at 135 km and integrates R-37M ultra-long-range missiles, capable of intercepting targets up to 230 km away.

Measuring 22.69 meters in length, 13.46 meters in wingspan, and 6.15 meters in height, the MiG-31BM is an updated variant of the Soviet-era MiG-31 Foxhound interceptor. The modernization program aims to extend the aircraft's service life and enhance its operational capabilities.

The MiG-31BM incorporates advanced avionics, a new multi-mode radar system, and an upgraded weapons control system. The Zaslon-M radar can detect targets up to 400 km away and track 24 simultaneously. The cockpit features modern displays and digital data links, enabling various missions including air-to-air and air-to-ground combat, reconnaissance, and suppression of enemy air defenses.

The MiG-31BM can carry long-range air-to-air missiles such as R-33, R-37, and R-77, and anti-radiation and air-to-surface missiles like KH-31P, KH-58, and KH-59. It can also deploy the Kinzhal hypersonic missile, which reaches speeds of up to Mach 10 and targets up to 2,000 kilometers away. Powered by two Soloviev D-30F6 engines, the MiG-31BM has a maximum speed of 3,000 km/h and a service ceiling of 20,600 meters. Its range is extended with additional fuel tanks and mid-air refueling capabilities.

In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the MiG-31BM, equipped with R-37M missiles, has intercepted Ukrainian aircraft, including Su-25 and Su-24 models. Stationed in strategic locations such as Crimea and Belarus, these interceptors enhance Russia’s air defense and offensive reach.