MiG 31K Fighter Jet

Full Specifications

MiG 31K Kinzhal Strike Interceptor

The MiG 31K is a specialized strike variant of the MiG 31 interceptor, adapted to deliver Russia’s Kh 47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic missile. Built for speed and altitude rather than air combat agility, the aircraft plays a niche but strategic role. Its mission is to launch long range precision or nuclear strikes while remaining outside most enemy air defense coverage.

Manufacturer and Origin

The aircraft is produced by the Mikoyan Design Bureau of Russia. The MiG 31K is a conversion of existing MiG 31 airframes, primarily upgraded from the MiG 31BM standard. Russia introduced the MiG 31K into operational service in the late 2010s to support its air launched hypersonic strike doctrine.

Speed and Range

Speed is the MiG 31K’s defining strength. Powered by two D 30F6 turbofan engines, it can reach speeds close to Mach 2.8 at high altitude. This allows the aircraft to rapidly deploy across vast distances and provide the Kinzhal missile with additional launch energy. Ferry range is roughly 3000 km, while combat radius varies by load and profile but exceeds most modern fighters.

Role and Capabilities

Unlike multirole fighters, the MiG 31K is optimized for a single task. It typically carries one Kinzhal missile on a reinforced centerline hardpoint. The aircraft uses the Zaslon AM radar and updated navigation systems to support long range missions. It is assessed to be nuclear capable, giving it strategic deterrence value.

Cost and Program

Since the MiG 31K is a modified aircraft rather than a new build, precise unit cost figures are unclear. Western estimates suggest conversion and upgrade costs in the range of 35 to 50 million USD per aircraft, excluding missile costs.