The first 24 modernized MiG-31BM long range interceptor jets have been delivered to the Russian Armed Forces.
The upgradation impart multi-role capability to the MiG-31, which can now engage both aerial and ground targets.
The avionics upgrade has improved the efficiency of the MiG-31BM by 2.6 times than the MiG-31.
Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said the upgrade will cover 130 jets and is being carried out on 12-13 jets per year.
The upgraded fighters is equipped with the new Zaslon-M radar, developed by KRET’s V. Tikhomirov Scientific Research Institute of Instrument Design (NIIP).
The NIIP Zaslon-M differs from the original Zaslon radar by its extended antenna, up to 1.4 m in diameter. The radar's aerial target detection range has increased to 320 km, and the firing range to 280 km. It can simultaneously track up to ten air targets and engage six of the high priority threats using onboard missiles, and direct the remaining to be engaged by ground based anti-aircraft systems.
The MiG-31 can break the sound barrier while flying level or ascending, whereas the majority of supersonic aircraft break the speed of sound in a shallow dive. Moreover, the MiG-31 can go supersonic at medium and high altitudes without turning on afterburners.
Mass production of the MiG-31 began in 1979. In early 1992, air defense forces of CIS countries had more than 200 MiG-31 fighter jet-interceptors.
The two seat, supersonic, all-weather, long-range fighter jet-interceptor is designed to intercept and destroy cruise missiles, low-flying satellites, stealth aircraft, and other aerial targets of all types at all possible altitudes, during day or night, and in adverse weather conditions.
A group of four of these aircraft can control the air space of a front line 800-900 km in length.
The fighter is unmatched in performance by all the current western fighters.
