How the MiG-31I Extends Russia’s Reach with Air-Launched Ballistic Missiles
Analysts say Russia’s MiG-31I, backed by Il-78 tankers, can strike deep inside Ukraine with 9K720 missiles, highlighting its speed, altitude, and unmatched range.
According to analysts from the American magazine Military Watch, Russia’s MiG-31I interceptor is capable of hitting targets deep inside Ukraine — provided it receives support from an Il-78 aerial refueling aircraft.
The publication noted that new photographs circulating online show a MiG-31I refueling midair from an Il-78 tanker. The images, the authors said, serve as further proof of the aircraft’s extended reach and its ability to launch the 9K720 ballistic missile from far behind the front lines.
The analysts emphasized that air-launched strikes not only allow missiles to reach forward positions within minutes, giving enemy surveillance systems little time to react, but also provide the projectiles with far greater energy compared to ground-based launches.
They added that the MiG-31 remains one of the most effective platforms for deploying ballistic weapons thanks to its heavy payload capacity, high speed, and operational ceiling.