As early as 1965, when the MiG-25 interceptor was in the midst of its
test program, 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
program, achieved initial operational capability in 1980. Full-scale
deliveries began in 1982 to units covering the Moscow Air Defense 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 refueling
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 1990; existing MiG-31s were brought up to
the new standard (except for IFR capability) as the MiG-31BS.
The radically improved 'Generation 4+' MiG-31M featuring a new WCS and
new R-37 ultra-long-range AAMs first flew in 1985 but never entered
production because of funding shortages. Today, the MiG-31s remains one
of modern Russia's key air defense assets, and new versions keep
appearing. The book gives the complete development and service history
of this remarkable aircraft and is richly illustrated with color photos
and color artwork throughout.
