Famous Russian Aircraft: Mikoyan MiG-31

As early as 1965, when the MiG-25 interceptor was in the midst of its test programme, the Mikoyan Design Bureau started work on an even more capable two-seat interceptor meant to provide adequate protection for the huge expanses of Siberia and the Soviet Far East. Though superficially resembling a MiG-25 with tandem cockpits, the aircraft was soon designated the MiG-31. Initially dubbed Super Foxbat in the West but soon renamed Foxhound, the MiG-31 first flew on 16 September 1975 and, after a five-year trials programme, achieved initial operational capability in 1980. Full-scale deliveries began in 1982 to units covering the Moscow Air Defence Zone, the Arctic and the Far East. One of the effects was that the SR-71s now stayed away from the Soviet borders. Efforts to improve the Foxhound began right away. In-flight refuelling capability was added in 1989 to overcome the problem of inadequate range. Next, the MiG-31B featuring upgraded avionics and better weapons entered production in 1