Mig 31bm technical. MiG-31

The MiG-31 supersonic interceptor is known for its high flight performance, and also differs from other types of aviation equipment in terms of high performance in terms of combat use. Not so long ago, the list of records for this aircraft was replenished with a new entry. The pilots of one of the combat units made the longest non-stop flight in the history of the MiG-31 aircraft.

The record was set during a recent joint aviation and air defense Central Military District, held at the end of March. As reported on March 26 by the command of the Central Military District, six MiG-31BM interceptors flew from the Kansk airbase (Krasnoyarsk Territory) to the Ashuluk base (Astrakhan region). The entire route was covered in one flight, without additional landings. To solve this problem, in view of the existing restrictions, tanker aircraft had to be involved, which helped the interceptors reach the required range.

According to the military department, during the record flight, six aircraft covered a distance of about 8 thousand kilometers, which took them 7 hours and 4 minutes. The route ran over three federal districts in the airspace of several subjects of the federation. At the same time, as follows from the published data, the planes did not fly according to the shortest way to the destination airfield, but moved along a more difficult route. Since the length of the route exceeded the flight range of the MiG-31BM interceptors, Il-78 tankers were involved in the operation. So, during a flight over the Novosibirsk region and Perm region three refueling procedures were performed.

It is reported that at the final stage of the flight, the crews of six aircraft were engaged in the search and destruction of training targets. Despite the long duration of the previous flight, the pilots successfully coped with the assigned tasks and destroyed the existing targets located in the airspace of the training ground in the Astrakhan region.

More than seven hours after taking off from the Kansk airfield, all six interceptors arrived at the Ashuluk base, where they landed. After arriving at the airfield in the Astrakhan region, the aircraft crews began to prepare for the implementation of new combat training tasks. As reported in early April, MiG-31BM aircraft were involved in the interception of training targets in different time days and successfully solved similar problems.

The command of the Central Military District notes that on this moment only the crews of the 14th Army of the Air Force and Air Defense of the Central Military District have practical experience of long-range flights on MiG-31BM aircraft with three refuelings. According to the latest data, record-breaking pilots are presented for state awards.

The recent exercise with a record-breaking flight is a clear demonstration of the capabilities of the upgraded MiG-31BM interceptor. Currently, a program is being implemented to repair and upgrade combatant MiG-31s ​​of all available modifications to the state of "BM". In the course of such work, aircraft receive new electronic equipment, which significantly improves their performance. In addition, the range of weapons available for use by aircraft was noticeably expanded.

The main innovation of the MiG-31BM project is the Zaslon-M radar with enhanced performance. When using such a radar maximum range detection of relatively large air targets reaches 320 km. Objects with EPR at the level of 20 sq.m, according to some data, can be detected from a distance of 400 km. The Zaslon-M station is capable of detecting and tracking 24 air targets, as well as providing simultaneous shelling of 8 of them.

As part of the modernization project, new equipment for the cockpits of the pilot and navigator-operator was created. A characteristic drawback of previous modifications of the MiG-31 was the limitation of information displayed on the crew's dashboards. During the modernization, the aircraft receive updated cockpit equipment that solves this problem. Now the pilot can not only control the aircraft, but also monitor the tactical situation in the air, and the instruments at the navigator's workplace have been similarly modified.

The main armament of the MiG-31BM remains long-range air-to-air missiles R-33S, according to some reports, capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 300 km. It also became possible to carry and use guided air-to-surface missiles. various types designed to destroy ground targets, radar stations, ships, etc. Guided bombs may be included in a guided weapon system for destroying ground targets. Thus, after the modernization of the MiG-31BM, it ceases to be only an interceptor and gains the ability to perform combat missions of a different kind.

A few years ago, a decision was made regarding further fate interceptors of the MiG-31 family. It was proposed to carry out the repair and modernization of a part of such equipment for various projects. In particular, it was planned to bring 60 aircraft to the state of the MiG-31BM. Some other cars had only to undergo repairs, and some others, whose condition left much to be desired, were planned to be written off. Reports on the modernization of the MiG-31 under the BM project appeared in 2012-13. Soon the necessary work started, which, according to some reports, is nearing completion. According to various sources, by now the armed forces have received up to 40-50 updated MiG-31BMs.

The successful implementation of the planned modernization of military equipment allows you to return all the required interceptors to service, as well as to involve them in various exercises. For example, at the end of March, several aircraft from the Kansk air base took part in joint air defense and aviation maneuvers of the Central Military District. During this event, the crews of six MiG-31BM interceptors set a new record for the flight range of such aircraft. In addition, they performed search and destruction of training targets. Thus, the service of the updated technology continues and is accompanied by new achievements.

The MiG-31BM is one of the most versatile fighter-interceptors in the world today. In the international codification, it was called Foxhound, which means "fox hound". It is safe to say that the MiG-31 is the best in all respects. It is designed to detect and destroy the enemy at extreme heights under any conditions.

History of appearance

The MiG-31BM project received approval only in the early 1970s. Prior to this, for several years, the best military engineers of the Soviet Union were engaged in the creation of the MiG-31 attack fighter, under the leadership. Since 1975, the project was headed by K. Vasilchenko. On his shoulders lay not only the development of the concept of a supersonic aircraft, but also its testing.

Initially, the MiG-31BM fighter-interceptor could hit targets during daylight hours. Gradually, navigation equipment improved. In the spring of 1976, it was decided to introduce new electronic tracking equipment into the aircraft's software package. As a result, expanded combat capabilities fighter. So, on board was a radar with a phased antenna.

The aircraft was built according to the "tandem" scheme, that is, the crew had to accommodate only two people. The pilot was assigned the functions of piloting, and the navigator - the processing of operational data. The first successful tests of the aircraft took place at the end of 1978, and a year and a half later, the project was completed by a decree of the USSR government.

Characteristic differences of the series

The MiG-31BM has a number of important distinguishing features from the original MiG-31. First of all, this concerns the onboard radar complex. Thanks to this equipment, the crew is able to detect up to 24 targets in a matter of seconds. In addition, a third of them can be attacked at a time. The MiG-31BM also has technical characteristics regarding the anti-radar protection system. It includes such rocket launchers as Kh-25MPU, Kh-29T, Kh-31P and others. In addition, in distinctive features series can include an upgraded laser guidance system.

For the comfort of the crew, a special layout of the cabins was developed. Now the pilot has the opportunity to timely receive data on the previously commander could not know what his navigator was doing. To monitor the situation, the cockpit is equipped with a multifunctional indicator with a diagonal of 10 inches. The navigator, in turn, was able to display radar information on the screen.

Fighter design

The 31BM airframe model was developed on the basis of the MiG-25. When designing Special attention was given to a hull that is capable of handling 25% more lifting load than previous versions. The shell is made up of 50% steel, 33% high-strength aluminum alloy and 13% titanium. rocket launcher half fixed in the body. The MiG-31BM aircraft has engine specifications similar to those of the Tu-134 prototypes. It's about which was developed back in 1979. These are powerful modular engines with a nozzle and an afterburner. When launching a fighter, the "fire track" method is used. Vibro-combustion is automatically eliminated by the combined collector. The engines themselves are made of titanium, iron and nickel.

Radar characteristics

MiG-31BM is a new generation multifunctional fighter. Its main advantage over the enemy is the universal radar, which includes two modernized systems at once.

The first was called "Barrier". It was put into service in 1981. The system is capable of detecting a ground target with an error probability of 0.5% at a distance of up to 200 km. The visibility range in the air is 35 km. "Barrier" makes it possible to simultaneously attack 8 channels. The fighter is capable of hitting targets in the "dead loop" mode.

The additional Barrier-M radar entered service in 2008. It makes it possible to detect flying targets up to 320 km and defeat up to 290 km. At the moment, no fighter in the world has such characteristics. In addition, the Zaslon-M has a built-in 8TP heat direction finder capable of detecting live targets up to 56 km even in difficult climatic conditions.

The kit also includes a digital noise protection system from the MiG-31.

Description: performance characteristics

The length of the fighter version 31BM is 21.6 m with a wingspan of 13.5 m. The mass of the supersonic vehicle is 21.8 tons. Maximum weight with a full load - up to 47 tons. The total volume of tanks is 17 thousand liters of fuel.

The total thrust of the engines in the afterburner is 31,000 kgf. At the same time, the maximum operating overload threshold is 5G. No wonder the MiG-31BM is considered the most "hardy" fighter in the world.

The technical characteristics of the onboard equipment allow the supersonic interceptor to reach a speed barrier of 3000 km/h. In this case, cruising acceleration is 2500 km / h. Without refueling, the fighter is capable of flying over a distance of up to 3,000 km. Height ceiling - 20.5 km. The average flight duration without refueling is 3.3 hours.

Weapon characteristics

The MiG-31BM is equipped with a 23-millimeter multi-round gun of the GSh-6-23M series, as well as R-33, R-40T, R-60 and R-60M guided missiles. It is worth noting the rate of fire of the GSh-6-23M. It is up to 10,000 rounds per minute.

Missile systems are located on 6 pendants. Plus an additional two points for PTB. Suspensions are fixed evenly on the hull and wings. include 4 large missiles and medium range defeat. The upgraded models have a R-77 UR system with 4 rounds.

The armament of the fighter enables the crew to hit targets with high accuracy both on the ground and in the air. The bombardment is carried out by means of laser navigation. The maximum mass of the total combat load is 9 tons.

Demanded modifications

Since the implementation of the MiG-31 project, a huge number of different aircraft variations have been born. The most popular of them was the MiG-31BM. This multifunctional supersonic interceptor is capable of not only attacking targets on long distances, but also to carry out reconnaissance thanks to the integrated radar of a new generation. A simplified analogue of the version is the MiG-31B.

Models of the letter "D" and "I" are designed to launch small satellite vehicles. MiG-31LL is an air laboratory. The 31M fighter has enhanced armament and is often used as a bomber. Models "FE" and "E" are export options.

Fighter application

Aircraft of the MiG-31 generation were designed to replace the outdated versions of the Tu-128 and Su-15. In the fall of 1984, the fighters arrived at the location of the USSR Air Force on Sakhalin Island. After 10 years, about three hundred interceptors were on the balance sheet of Russia. It was these winged vehicles that controlled the air during the second Chechen war.

In 2014, the country's government decided to modernize all the MiG-31s ​​in service. It is expected that in 5-6 years all outdated models of the series will be upgraded to the MiG-31BM.

To date, fighters are used in reconnaissance.

Base and export

The technical characteristics of the MiG-31BM aircraft are literally amazing. That is why these fighters are so in demand in other countries. However, most of the devices are located at the location of the Russian Air Force.

At the moment, the 31BM model is based on 6 military airfields. Most of them are located in Yelizovo - about 30 units. Following are the bases of Khotilovo (24 units) and Central Corner (14 units).

The leading country in terms of maintenance of export MiG-31s ​​is Kazakhstan. There are 33 fighters at the Karaganda airfield as part of the 610th base.

The maximum speed of the MIG-31BM is 3.2 thousand km/h (for comparison, the maximum speed of the American F-22 is 2.1 thousand km/h). The target detection range of the MIG-31BM reaches 320 km. The aircraft is capable of simultaneously hitting 6 air targets.

The pilots were given the task of refueling at an altitude of several thousand meters. This most complicated maneuver requires pinpoint accuracy and forces even experienced specialists to be extremely attentive.

The flight crew and ground services are preparing for a responsible task. A trio of state-of-the-art MiG-31BM interceptor fighters will work out the most difficult aviation maneuver - at an altitude of 4,000 meters at a speed of 500 kilometers per hour, the fighters must refuel - fill the fuel tanks from the Il-78 air tanker.

The rendezvous point has been set in the sky over Lipetsk, 363 kilometers from the Nizhny Novgorod air base in Savasleyka, from where the MiGs fly. The fuel hose from a tanker aircraft is under enormous pressure, its density is so great that it is like a metal pipe in the air.

After several control approaches, the maneuver was successfully completed. The cone-skirt of the hose falls on the fuel receiver antenna. This is the very aerobatics. Refueling requires extreme concentration, the pilot is always under enormous stress, Anatoly Ishmaev admits after the flight.

You come to the starting position of 5-7 meters with a decrease of 1-1.5 meters, after that you make contact. You need to refuel 10 tons. The pilot is tense, stands in close formation for about 7-8 minutes. This is a tense moment. And the less he is in these parameters, the better, - says the commander of the detachment Anatoly Ishmaev.

Military aviation

Developed by RSK MiG. two-seat supersonic all-weather fighter-interceptor long range MiG-31BM is equipped with modern system management. The fighter is capable of simultaneously hitting six air targets and tracking up to ten targets (you can also find information that the MiG-31BM can simultaneously detect up to 24 air targets, eight of which can be simultaneously fired by R-33S missiles). The range of destruction is 280 km, the target detection range reaches 320 km. The onboard equipment of the MiG-31BM aircraft provides the possibility of effective interaction with anti-aircraft missile systems air defense.

The MiG-31 is a two-seat long-range supersonic all-weather fighter-interceptor - the first fourth-generation Soviet combat aircraft. Developed in the 70s of the last century. Has many modifications. And, if the serial modification of the MiG-31B, equipped with an air refueling system, entered service in 1990, then MiG-31BM first went on public display in early 1999. This is an aircraft with significantly increased combat capabilities. Due to the modernization of avionics and weapons, the efficiency of the MiG-31BM (compared to the MiG-31) has increased by 2.6 times. Previously, machines of this family were classified as long-range interceptor fighters, and modernized The MiG has become a multi-purpose aircraft equipped with precision weapons to destroy both air and ground targets.

MiG-25 and MiG-31 fighters included in the list of the fastest aircraft in history

The fastest of Soviet aircraft the publication considers the MiG-25 a third-generation supersonic fighter-interceptor developed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Bureau

Some of the aircraft in the ranking are no longer in use, but their design and technical characteristics have big influence on the development of engineering and design thought in aviation.

The publication considers the MiG-25 (Foxbat, Foxbat in NATO codification) to be the fastest of the Soviet aircraft, a third-generation supersonic fighter-interceptor developed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Bureau. His maximum speed without missiles on board, it can reach more than 3400 km / h, but in operation the speed of the aircraft is limited to 3000 km / h.

The United States has acknowledged that the MiG-25 is a highly maneuverable fighter whose increased air mobility is largely due to the size of its wings, BI notes.

Another figurant on the list of the American edition - the MiG-31 (Foxhound) - a fourth-generation supersonic long-range interceptor fighter - can reach speeds of up to 2600 km / h without missiles. Introduced into service in 1981, the Soviet MiG-31, according to analysts of the publication, is still one of the fastest fighters in history and continues to be in service with the Russian and Kazakh armies. According to BI, Russia plans to use the aircraft until 2030.

And the fastest aircraft in history, the publication called the American experimental rocket-plane X-15, equipped with rocket engines. On October 3, 1967, pilot Joe Walker on the X-15 set an unofficial altitude record (107.96 km) and a maximum speed of 7274 km / h.

The ranking also includes the American strategic bomber XB-70 Valkyrie (3300 km/h), McDonnell-Douglas F-4 Phantom II interceptor (2369 km/h), single-seat, single-engine interceptor Convair F-106 Delta Dart (2454 km/h) , experimental Bell X-2 (3000 km/h) and Lockheed ST-71 Blackbird (3540 km/h).

Test pilot: MiG-41 must reach speeds up to Mach 4.3

The speed of the latest Russian fighter-interceptor MiG-41, developed on the basis of the MiG-31, should exceed Mach 4.

Such modernization should have taken place 20 years ago. However, this did not happen then, so now the requirements are increasing. They consist, among other things, in (increasing) the speed of the interceptor to Mach 4-4.3.

For comparison: the US Air Force's Lockheed SR-71 strategic supersonic reconnaissance aircraft can reach speeds of up to Mach 3.2. The MiG-31 interceptor fighter was developed in the USSR in the first half of the 1970s. The aircraft is capable of speeds up to 3,000 km/h, and its combat radius is 720 km.

The aircraft is armed with a six-barreled 23 mm cannon with 260 rounds of ammunition, and is also equipped with six hardpoints for air-to-air missiles. different types. A group of four MiG-31s, depending on the version, can control air space length along the front 900-1200 km. The upgraded MiG-31BMs are capable of detecting targets at a distance of up to 320 km and hitting them when approaching 280 km.

The total number of MiG-31s ​​of different versions in service with the Russian Air Force is about 190 units. The production of interceptor fighters was discontinued in 1994, but the modernization of these aircraft to the MiG-31BM version has recently begun.

Sources: www.tver-portal.ru, www.youtube.com, pro-samolet.ru, www.arms-expo.ru, vpk.name

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The MiG-31 is a combat aircraft, the main task of which is the destruction of an air enemy at long distances. It is capable of shooting down enemy aircraft with a wide range of altitudes, from low to, practically, the stratosphere. Performs combat missions in any weather.

The MiG-31 aircraft is an unsurpassed product of the 70s of the XX century by the famous Design Bureau named after. Mikoyan. But until now, the machine is in combat formation on the protection of the air borders of Russia and is not going to give way to later developments of military military equipment.

From the very beginning, this fighter was equipped with technical and military capabilities that were far ahead of their time. Suffice it to say that immediately after its creation, the aircraft became the champion of numerous world records in flight altitude, speed and rate of climb. A photo of the MiG-31 is presented below.

The main technical characteristics of the aircraft

The interceptor is made according to the scheme of a monoplane with a high wing. It has two vertical fins and two horizontal engines in the tail section. Wing in the form of a trapezoid. The engine air intakes are located on the sides of the fuselage, just behind the cockpit. The cabin of the MiG-31 is designed for two crew members.

In the manufacture of the MiG-31 design, mainly high-strength and high-temperature steel was used, the remaining elements are titanium and aluminum alloys. For the first time in the domestic aircraft industry fighting machine was equipped with a phased array antenna locator. AT power plant aircraft used turbojet engines with two circuits and a high compression ratio.

The aircraft is capable of flying at speeds several times faster than the speed of sound and can withstand g-forces up to 5 g. On later modifications of the aircraft, equipment for refueling in the air was installed.

The main technical characteristics of the MiG-31:

Some performance characteristics of the MiG-31 are superior to those of modern aircraft.

Timeline of creation

The beginning of the creation of the MiG-31 should be considered 1968. The prototype MiG-31 made its first flight in 1975. Tests of the aircraft at the state level were completed in 1980. By 1981, all the necessary documentation, working drawings were prepared, factory equipment was made and technologies were tested. series production. This made it possible to start manufacturing serial machines in the same year (St. Nizhny Novgorod). First combat duty fighter took place in 1983. The production of 31 MiGs was discontinued in 1994, after more modern aircraft models entered service.

MiG-31 in 1975

In total, more than 500 copies of the MiG-31 and its variants were manufactured.

Armament

MiG-31 armament: the main armament element is high-precision missiles, which are capable of hitting the enemy both in the airspace and on the ground, at various distances. The aircraft can also be armed with missiles to destroy offshore targets. Some of the missiles that are part of the MiG-31 armament operate on the “fire and forget” principle, which does not require the participation of the pilot in their final aiming at the target.

On-board guidance means for such missiles allow you to do it yourself. To protect the aircraft from enemy strikes, it is equipped with a radar warning system, onboard electronic means countermeasures and interference, thermal missiles. For the destruction of ground objects, controlled by laser beam planning bombs. For firing at short-range targets, a gun is installed in the MiG-31 hull, designed for a set of 260 shells. Total weight military weapons aircraft can reach 3 tons.

The aircraft is capable of shooting down targets at a distance of more than 100 km and at altitudes from low-flying targets enveloping the earth's terrain to targets at an altitude of about 30 km. This is one of the few fighters that can shoot down low-orbit spacecraft. Issues of evaluating the possibility of using the aircraft to launch small satellites were worked out.

Onboard equipment

The MiG-31 radio-electronic onboard equipment is a powerful complex for detecting the enemy and aiming at him damaging means aircraft. The central element of this complex is a radar with a phased antenna. This locator differs from parabolic-type airborne locators in that it is able to track more than one target, but simultaneously monitor more than 20 targets and point the aircraft’s weapons at 8 targets.

The MiG-31 is capable of detecting an air enemy at a distance of more than 300 km, and a ground enemy at a distance of up to 200 km. The MiG-31 on-board electronic equipment allows several aircraft to exchange information. Such a grouping, composed of several 31 vehicles, is capable of protecting air borders with a width of about one thousand kilometers. The nature of the information exchange in such a grouping allows one of the machines to take on the role of a gunner and help the rest of the fighters to aim at the target.

The onboard equipment of the 31st Migov includes a thermal direction finder capable of tracking the enemy at a distance of about 50 km.

HEADLIGHTS and refueling receiver MiG-31B

Power point

The MiG-31 power plant includes two turbojet forced aircraft engines with two compression circuits, with a normal thrust of about 9 tons each and with an increased thrust of about 16 tons. This aircraft engine was created by designers and engineers of the design bureau from Perm. Main engine parameters:

The MiG-31 engine has in its design several low- and high pressure, which compress the air with great force before being fed into the combustion chamber. There, in the combustion chamber, fuel is injected. The resulting air-fuel mixture burns at a temperature of about 1400 degrees. The gases escaping from the engine nozzle are capable of pushing the aircraft with a force of about 10 tons.

The total thrust of the dual Mig-31 installation can reach from 20 to 30 tons. The amount of air entering the engine with the help of special devices is regulated depending on the altitude and speed of the flight. This ensures stable operation of the engine at all altitudes. The diameter of the outlet section of the supersonic nozzle of the engine can be adjusted. What increases or decreases the speed of gases leaving the engine nozzle and, thus, regulates its thrust.

The MiG-31 engine has a high degree of reliability, which is ensured by special protection against uncontrolled unwinding of engine parts, limiting its heating, as well as timely detection of defects and damage to its mechanisms and individual parts. Increased reliability is also achieved by duplicating individual motor systems.

The design of the MiG-31 aircraft engine has a high degree maintainability, which is largely due to the modular design of the engine.

Flight altitude

The flight altitude of an aircraft largely depends on its speed. As the altitude increases, the density of the air decreases, and, consequently, the support of the aircraft wing on the air also decreases. Then, the only way to achieve a greater height is the acceleration of the aircraft. The maximum flight altitude of the MiG-31 is about 30 km, while its speed is three times higher than the sound speed.

Airspeed

The flight speed of an aircraft is determined by numerous factors, the main ones include: engine power, fuel characteristics, aerodynamics of the hull and wing contours, payload mass. Taking into account all these parameters, the maximum speed of the MiG-31 can reach over 3 m. At a low altitude, it can reach up to 1.5 m.

For quite a long time, the MiG-31 can fly at a speed less than the sound of 950 km / h and at a speed exceeding the speed of sound of 2500 km / h. When landing, the speed of the aircraft is reduced to 300 km / h.

The exceptional properties of the MiG-31 include its ability to reach the sound barrier in level flight and while climbing. The aircraft is able to reach the transition of the sound barrier without additional inclusion of afterburner. The aircraft is capable of flying for a long time at a speed greater than the speed of sound. Most analogue aircraft manage to maintain such a flight for no more than a few tens of minutes.

Range of flight

The flight range of the MiG-31 largely depends on the amount of fuel on board, the weight of the payload and the flight speed of the aircraft. At subsonic speed without missiles, the flight range can be about 2500 km. The duration of the flight will be 2.5 hours.

With four missiles and their launch at the middle of the distance, the range will be 2400 km, with four missiles and their launch at the end of the distance, the range will be 2240 km.

With two external tanks and their dumping after fuel consumption, the plane will be able to fly 3000 km. The MiG-31 will reach the same flight range with a single in-flight fuel replenishment from a special tanker aircraft. The aircraft's maximum flight range of 8,000 km was obtained with a three-fold replenishment of fuel from a tanker aircraft. The duration of the flight took about 7 hours.

The range of the MiG-31 during combat work is over 700 km.

Modifications

It has been repeatedly modified to improve parameters and to perform new tasks. Consider the most striking examples of machine improvements.

Design versions of 31 machines:

MiG-31B- improved control equipment, added in-flight refueling device, updated information exchange methods, improved vehicle navigation, including the use of satellite signals. This version of the vehicle is equipped with new missiles for hitting targets at short and long distances. All these innovations made it possible to increase the combat power of the fighter.

MiG-31M- a serious modernization of the basic version of the aircraft. An improved airborne radar system was installed, with a detection range of up to 320 km and 24 objects in target tracking mode. A modified more powerful aircraft engine was installed. Increased volume of fuel tanks. Added active jamming equipment. An increase in the diameter of the locator antenna required a change in the design of the head fairing, it had to be slightly tilted down.

MiG-31BM– added anti-radar and anti-ship missiles. The radio electronics was improved in such a way that the aircraft was able to coordinate its actions with ground anti-aircraft systems, and also be used as an air command post for coordination with other aircraft.

MiG-31D- an option for the destruction of low-flying satellites.

MiG-33LL- used for research purposes.

MiG-31E- export version of the machine.

MiG-31FE- front-line fighter with a wide range of tasks. Added a laser targeting system to destroy objects on the ground. The combat load reached 9 tons. The aircraft can simultaneously use both weapons to destroy targets in the airspace and on the ground. It became possible to install equipment made abroad on the aircraft.

In the latest versions of 31 vehicles, for the convenience and operational awareness of the crew, light information has been added to windshield cabins.

Operation and combat use

The first 31st moments began to arrive in the air defense forces since 1980. They were sent to aviation regiments based in Pravdinsk (Kaliningrad region) and to the Air Defense Center in Savasleyka ( Nizhny Novgorod Region). In the future, they had to defend the borders of the USSR on Far East. A dangerous situation developed there, in connection with the provocative flights of American reconnaissance aircraft near the borders of the USSR. These planes had a speed that exceeded the speed of fighters of that time. After the MiG-31 fighters appeared in the sky of the Far East, the provocative flights stopped.

Currently in service with the army and navy There are 247 MiG-31 aircraft of various modifications in Russia. The geography of their deployment is concentrated in the center of Russia (Tver and Vladimir region), in the North (Monchegosk), in the Ural Region (Perm), Eastern Siberia(Krasnoyarsk Territory), in the Far East (Vladivostok, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky). The Republic of Kazakhstan is armed with 32 MiG-31s.

In 1999-2000, the 31st MiGs took part in the second Chechen war, controlling the airspace over the republic.

: In November 2016, the MiG-31 was assigned the responsibility of covering the Khmeimim base, the main base for basing the Russian aerospace forces in Syria.

aircraft perspective

Given the unique flight performance and combat capabilities of the MiG-31, work continues on its further modernization. This is mainly due to the improvement of on-board equipment and electronics, as well as engine capabilities. The aerodynamics of the aircraft, combined with the materials from which the aircraft is made, have proven their worth. undeniable advantage even ahead of later fighter aircraft designs. Some characteristics of the MiG-31 remain unsurpassed to this day. In the near future, it is planned to upgrade 60 fighters of the 31st MiG to the level of BM, and plans are being considered in government circles and in the State Duma of Russia to resume production of the MiG-31.

In contact with

The first-born of the fourth generation of Soviet aircraft was the MiG-31 supersonic two-seat fighter-interceptor. The aircraft, which was born more than a quarter of a century ago, still retains the palm both in speed and in flight altitude.

The main distinguishing feature of this combat vehicle is that until the end of the nineties it remained the only fighter on which an airborne radio relay station with a phased antenna array (PAR) was installed. Moreover, the ability to use long-range air-to-air missiles, which this Russian aircraft is characterized by, is available only for the American F-14 carrier-based fighter.

Specifications MiG-31 1980

• Years of production: 1975-1994
• Total manufactured: about 500 pcs.
• Combat use: military conflicts of the late XX - early XXI centuries.
• Crew - 2 people.
• Takeoff weight - 46.75 tons.
• Dimensions: length - 21.6 m, height 6.5 m, wingspan - 13.4 m.
• Armament: 23-mm cannon, 260 rounds of ammunition, six suspension points on which air-to-air missiles are attached.
• Turbojet engine.
• The maximum speed is 3000 km/h.
• Practical ceiling - 20.6 km.
• Flight range - 5400 km.

Photo MiG-31

Modifications of the MiG-31 aircraft

The prototype of the aircraft, which appeared in 1975, was marked E-155MP. Repeatedly carried out modernization of the MiG-31 led to the fact that the following modifications were born:

• MiG-31B, equipped with a system that allowed refueling in the air;
• MiG-31BM, which is a multi-role fighter designed to combat radar;
• MiG-31D experimental version capable of launching an anti-satellite missile;
• MiG-31M with enhanced armament, avionics, radar.

This aircraft had other modifications that were design and research, as well as modifications intended for export.

Combat use of the aircraft

The MiG-31 aircraft is a further development of the MiG-25P, which was also an interceptor fighter. The characteristics that the MiG-31 and its engine have allow it to be used at any time of the day or night, under any weather conditions, and even in conditions of intense electronic warfare:

• perform long-term patrol tasks;
• fight aerodynamic targets of all classes, including:
  • small cruise missiles;
  • helicopters;
  • high-speed high-speed aircraft;
  • bombers.

The MiG-31 interceptor fighter is the only aircraft whose characteristics give it the ability to intercept and destroy cruise missiles flying at extremely low altitude.

A bit of history

When creating an aircraft, the drawings of which began to be developed in design office named after Mikoyan since 1972, the following characteristics were identified as the goal:

• maximum interception range - 700 km;
• cruising speed - 2,500 km / h, which is 2.35 times the speed of sound;
• subsonic speed - 1,200 km / h.

The prototype aircraft was built in 1975, and on September 16 of the same year, its first tests were carried out. After the release of the pilot batch, some technical improvements were carried out, and in 1979 the serial production of the machine began under its final name MiG-31.

Technical features of the fighter-interceptor

Unlike the MiG-25P, which was the original for new car, the cabin of the MiG-31 was designed for a crew of two, since the complexity of the installed radio equipment required an additional person - the navigator-operator, who was assigned the following main tasks:

• airspace control;
• development of tactics to ensure the interception of group targets.

The armament of the aircraft was reinforced by the use of the Zaslon radio sight, which was an important part of the avionics equipment.

First combat use PAR (phased antenna array), which was a novelty in the field of radio electronics, took place in 1978, when during the flight detection was performed and simultaneous tracking of 10 flying targets was carried out at once.

In 1998, the Russian MiG-31BM was demonstrated to specialists, the armament and equipment of which makes it possible to fight against radars.

So far, no analogues of the MiG-31 aircraft have been created abroad.

Design characteristics of the MiG-31

The design of the aircraft, the drawings of which largely coincide with the MiG-25, is characterized by the following features:

• scheme - normal aerodynamic;
• wing - trapezoidal high;
• stabilizer - all-moving;
• plumage - two-keel.

The technical characteristics of the MiG-31 are largely determined by the materials used to make its airframe. In particular, half of the case is made of stainless steel, 33% of aluminum alloys, 16% of titanium. Aluminum alloys are interesting because their operating temperature can reach 150°. In the same places that are subject to high kinetic heating caused by supersonic speed, stainless steel and titanium parts are installed. Such a successful selection of materials made it possible to minimize the mass of the aircraft glider.

An important advantage that this Russian fighter-interceptor has is its ability to take off from ice and unpaved airfields, which is of particular importance when it is operated in underdeveloped Siberian regions.

aircraft engine

The D-30F6 engine installed on the combat vehicle is a bypass engine in which the flows of the internal and external circuits are mixed behind the turbine. The engine is equipped with an afterburner and an all-mode adjustable nozzle having a folding design. In total, the aircraft has two engines, each of which is characterized by the following main parameters:

• maximum thrust without afterburner - 9,270 kgf;
• maximum afterburner thrust - 15,510 kgf;
• dry weight - 2,420 kg.

Each engine has rectangular side air intakes, adjustable with horizontal sliding panels.

The stock of fuel placed on board the aircraft is 1,630 kg. It is distributed between 7 fuselage, 5 wing and 2 keel tanks. On the underwing units, 2 additional tanks of 2,500 liters each can also be suspended. Refueling of all containers is carried out centrally.

The MiG-31 fighter-interceptor is also interesting in the presence of an in-flight refueling system. This operation is carried out with the help of Su-24T and Il-78 tanker aircraft, the hose from which is connected to a retractable L-shaped fuel receiver bar.

MiG-31 equipment

The equipment that the aircraft has on board allows it to be used:

• offline;
• as part of a group consisting of aircraft of the same type;
• as a leader to ensure control of fighters with less advanced avionics.

The radar station installed on the aircraft has the following main characteristics:

• maximum target detection range - 200 km;
• target tracking range - 120 km.

Thanks to the capabilities of the radar, the armament of the aircraft can hit targets both in the upper hemisphere and against the background of the earth. Up to 10 targets can be on automatic tracking at the same time. The Argon-K calculator located on board selects the 4 most significant ones from among them, on which 4 R-33 missiles are simultaneously aimed.

The MiG-31 also has an 8TP heat direction finder on board, the maximum detection range of which reaches 50 km. The presence of this device ensures the detection of targets even in conditions of electronic interference of high intensity.

Maximum combat effectiveness is guaranteed by the interaction of four MiG-31s ​​combined through ACS into a single combat system. The information exchange capabilities provided by the aircraft's equipment make it possible to use it for long-range target detection and for targeting such combat vehicles as the MiG-29 and Su-27.

The operator's cabin is equipped with a large-format indicator of the tactical situation and navigation equipment, consisting of radio navigation systems "Route" and "Tropic". There is a PPI-70V color indicator on the windshield of the pilot's cabin, which provides the pilot with comprehensive information in the form of colored inscriptions, benchmarks, indices and scales. There are no analogues of such an indicator abroad so far.

Aircraft armament

The armament of the fighter-interceptor and includes:

• long-range guided missiles R-33;
• guided missiles R-40T medium range;
• short-range guided missiles R-73, R-60M or R-60;
• six-barreled gun GSh-23-6 caliber 23 mm.

When characterizing the missiles installed on board the aircraft, it is necessary to clarify their following parameters:

• R-33, having a launch range of 120 km, mounted on an external sling under the fuselage;
• P-40T, which have an infrared guidance system, are placed on underwing suspensions;
• R-73, R-60M and R-60 are also suspended on underwing nodes.

The ammunition load of the gun is 260 cartridges weighing 200 g each, its rate of fire is 8,000 rounds per minute.

Since the MiG-31 fighter-interceptor is still the best representative of its class in the world, it continues to be in service. Russian army, where there are now more than 400 such combat vehicles. In total, more than half a thousand such aircraft have been manufactured over the past years.

Fighter video

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