MiG-31

Soviet aircraft

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

The MiG-31 is a Soviet-designed, two-seat interceptor aircraft that entered service in 1983. It is based on the earlier MiG-25 but is modified for improved performance at lower altitudes, though it has a reduced top speed compared to its predecessor. The MiG-31 was developed by the MiG design bureau, founded by Artem Mikoyan and Mikhail Gurevich, which has been a major producer of Soviet and Russian jet fighter aircraft since its inception in 1939. The design bureau's aircraft, including the MiG-15, MiG-17, MiG-21, and MiG-29, have seen extensive combat and service worldwide.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

MiG
The MiG-31, a two-seat interceptor introduced in 1983, is based on the MiG-25 but is modified for less speed and better performance at lower altitudes. The MiG-29, first operational in 1985, is a single-seat, twin-engine air-to-air fighter that can also be used for ground attack.
Read More
The MiG-31, a two-seat interceptor introduced in 1983, is based on the MiG-25 but is modified for less speed and better performance at lower altitudes. The MiG-29, first operational in 1985, is a single-seat, twin-engine air-to-air fighter that can also be used for ground attack.
Read More