Russian Mig-31 armed with new KS-172 missiles: what is the dangerous weapon

To spread: The United Aviation Corporation (OAC) has announced the modernization of the Mig-31 fighter-interceptor, equipped with a new farm "air-air-air" KS-172. The stated weapon range is more than 400 km. This was reported on May 19 by Army Recognition. Initially, the aircraft was armed with R-33 and P-37M rockets, with a range of 150 to 400 km. However, based on the statements of the Russian corporation, this threshold was allegedly overcome.

This range allows strategic goals-AWACS planes, tankers and inconspicuous platforms-before they approach the dangerous distance. Weapons are a two -stage solid fuel rocket made according to the aerodynamic scheme "Carrier Corps". It is equipped with solid -turning steering wheel, located in the tail of the second degree and stabilizers of lattice type at the first degree. The main part houses the active radar head of the homing (ARGS) 9B-1103M, the system of inertial guidance and autopilot.

In the tail part there are a march rocket engine and a steering compartment. The combat part is a fragile-shaped directional action. The observers note that the development of perspective KS-172 has been faced with technical and financial difficulties, but now the rocket has returned as part of a wide program to strengthen the potential of the PCS of the Russian Federation.

Unlike Western missiles AIM-20d ​​(160-180 km) and Chinese PL-15 (up to 300 km), the KS-172 range comes out 400 km, which makes it unique in its class. At the same time, compact sizes, as noted by Russian sources, provide flexibility of combat use and the possibility of integration into other air platforms. The integration of the KS-172 missile is seriously exacerbated by the Russian restraint strategy (A2/AD) in regions such as the Arctic, Eastern Europe and the Pacific Theater.

Potential goals - NATO reconnaissance and coordination, including Jstars, AWACS and air tankers - become vulnerable before entering operational areas, which significantly complicates air planning for the US and their allies. Thus, the MiG-31, which was previously considered an inherited Cold War platform, is today turning into a "strategic air sniper" capable of strikes beyond the reach of most modern fighters.