Russian Air Force Receives First Modernized MiG-31BMs in 2024
The Russian Air Force (VVS), a branch of the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS), has marked a significant milestone with the delivery of its first batch of upgraded Mikoyan MiG-31BM supersonic interceptor aircraft in 2024. This development, announced on July 15 by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), represents a substantial enhancement to Russia’s air defense capabilities.
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Delivery and Testing
According to the UAC press release, the aircraft were delivered in fulfillment of state defense order obligations. Before deployment, the MiG-31BMs underwent a series of rigorous ground and flight tests to confirm their compliance with set requirements. Following successful evaluations, the aircraft were dispatched to their permanent bases.
Strategic Deployment in Crimea
Towards the end of the previous year, Moscow made a strategic decision to station MiG-31s in Crimea for the first time. This move aligns with President Putin’s vision of maintaining near-constant patrols over the Black Sea, posing a significant threat to Ukraine with Kinzhal (Dagger) missiles.
MiG-31 Configurations and Roles
The MiG-31 comes in two primary configurations: The MiG-31K serves as the Russian Kinzhal carrier, while the MiG-31BM is an interceptor model armed with R-37M air-to-air missiles. The MiG-31BM’s capability to target aerial threats up to 300 kilometers away makes it a versatile asset for both offensive operations against Ukraine and defense of Russian military assets from Ukrainian missiles like Neptune, Storm Shadow/SCALP, and ATACMS.
Psychological Warfare Aspect
According to Telegram channels monitoring the situation in Ukraine, each MiG-31 flight triggers an air alert across Ukraine. This tactic serves to escalate tensions, keeping Ukrainians in a perpetual state of alert over the threat posed by the Kinzhal missile.
Dimensions and Power
The MiG-31BM has a length of approximately 22.69 meters (74.5 feet), a wingspan of 13.46 meters (44.1 feet), and a height of 6.15 meters (20.2 feet). It is powered by two Soloviev D-30F6 afterburning turbofan engines.
The aircraft is equipped with the Zaslon-M phased array radar, capable of detecting and tracking multiple targets simultaneously. It also features modernized navigation and communication systems.
Performance
The MiG-31BM can reach a maximum flight altitude of around 20,600 meters (67,600 feet) and achieve a maximum cruise speed of approximately Mach 2.83 (3,000 kilometers per hour or 1,864 miles per hour).
The MiG-31BM is equipped with a variety of long-range air-to-air missiles, including the R-33, R-37 (with a range of up to 400 kilometers or 248 miles), and R-77.
The delivery of the modernized MiG-31BMs represents a significant upgrade to the Russian Air Force’s capabilities. With its advanced avionics, impressive speed, and long-range weaponry, the MiG-31BM enhances Russia’s ability to intercept and neutralize aerial threats, while also serving as a potential platform for offensive operations. As these aircraft are deployed, they are likely to play a crucial role in Russia’s military strategy, particularly in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
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