A Russian MiG-31 interceptor has successfully intercepted and destroyed a simulated supersonic cruise missile flying in the stratosphere during a drill in the Russian Far East.

The press service of Russian Pacific Fleet reported that a pair of MiG-31s, stationed in Kamchatka, successfully locked onto and destroyed a simulated cruise missile target launched from a ship in the Sea of Okhotsk at an altitude of over 12,000 meters at over three times the speed of sound. The target was destroyed using an air-to-air missile, which targeted the enemy missile on a collision course.

The drill was carried out in anticipation of Naval Aviation Day, celebrated July 17. The Pacific Fleet's press service said that in addition to improving combat efficiency, such training is designed to help crews to work out pilot co-pilot interaction.

The Defense Ministry has released a video from the drill, although it does not show the moment of impact.

Entering into service with the Soviet Air Force in 1981, the MiG-31 is designed to intercept and destroy air targets in a wide range of altitudes. The plane's radar systems allow it to find even low-visibility cruise missile targets. In the broad, relatively lightly defended areas of Russia's air borders, the MiG-31 serves as the main means of defense against air attack.

Earlier this year, military officials told Russia's Zvezda television channel that the MiG-31's complement of long-range R-33 missiles was capable of striking air targets in near space, including satellites.

Source: Sputnik News

Tweet

UK Eurofighter Typhoon successfully fires MDBA Brimstone missile
Washington (UPI) Jul 14, 2017
The first live-fire test of a MBDA Brimstone air-to-surface missile from a British Eurofighter Typhoon has been conducted as part of Phase 3 Enhancements to the Typhoon fighter jet. The modifications to the Typhoon are part of Project Centurion, a series of upgrades that will provide the strike abilities of the Tornado GR4 to the Typhoon. The test-fire of the Brimstone involved the Brit ... read more

Related Links
Aerospace News
Learn about missile defense at SpaceWar.com
All about missiles at SpaceWar.com

Thanks for being here; We need your help. The SpaceDaily news network continues to grow but revenues have never been harder to maintain. With the rise of Ad Blockers, and Facebook - our traditional revenue sources via quality network advertising continues to decline. And unlike so many other news sites, we don't have a paywall - with those annoying usernames and passwords. Our news coverage takes time and effort to publish 365 days a year. If you find our news sites informative and useful then please consider becoming a regular supporter or for now make a one off contribution.
SpaceDaily Contributor $5 Billed Once credit card or paypal		SpaceDaily Monthly Supporter $5 Billed Monthly paypal only