The MiG-31BM is the most advanced variant of the Soviet interceptor, with approximately 120 in service. Powered by two Soloviev D-30F6 turbofans enabling Mach 2.83 dash speed, it is designed for long-range air defence patrol at high altitude. The Zaslon-AM phased array radar (320 km detection range) enables intercept of cruise missiles, ballistic warheads, and aircraft. Primary weapons are the R-33S (120 km) and R-37M (300+ km) long-range AAMs. Some MiG-31K variants carry the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal air-launched ballistic missile, used against targets in Ukraine. The MiG-31BM is essential for Russia's vast territorial air defence with no replacement in development.
![Mikoyan (MiG) logo](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="200" height="60" viewBox="0 0 200 60"><rect width="200" height="60" fill="%23111"/><text x="100" y="38" font-family="Arial" font-weight="bold" font-size="16" fill="%23c8a84b" text-anchor="middle">MIKOYAN MiG</text></svg>)
- Mach 2.83 maximum speed — fastest operational fighter aircraft in the world
- Zaslon-AM PESA radar (320 km detection range) with simultaneous 10-target track
- R-37M long-range hypersonic AAM enables 300+ km beyond-visual-range engagement
- Kh-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic missile carrier — unique strategic strike role
- Arctic and extreme-range air defence intercept capability across Russian territory
- Large and heavy — poor dogfight capability; agility far below Su-27/35
- Very high fuel consumption limits patrol time without tanker support
- 1980s airframe technology despite BM avionics upgrades
- PESA radar — lacks simultaneous transmit/receive of modern AESA systems
- Production line closed — fleet ageing with no replacement in development
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