As tensions continue to escalate, Russia and Ukraine are both ramping up their air forces. Ukraine is eagerly awaiting the highly anticipated delivery of F-16 fighter jets. NATO countries such as Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, along with the US, have promised to send these jets to Ukraine. Other allies are providing training for Ukrainian pilots and ground crews. The support from their allies is truly heartwarming.
However, just as the F-16s are about to be delivered, bad news hits Ukraine. Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation has handed over the first batch of upgraded MiG-31BM fighter jets to the Russian Ministry of Defense this year. Ukraine seems unprepared for this intense confrontation, which is concerning since Russia appears determined to dominate in military technology. Are these new jets a real threat to Ukraine? And what about the F-16s that still haven’t arrived? Can the F-16s stand up to the MiG-31BMs? Let’s dive deeper.
The MiG-31BM is a highly upgraded variant with multi-role capabilities. It’s touted to be more advanced than its predecessors, featuring network-centric warfare control, a new phased array radar, and aerial refueling capabilities. Its radar can track 24 airborne targets simultaneously with the ability to engage six at once using R-33 missiles. Impressively, the radar can function well even under active jamming. The MiG-31BM is 2.6 times more efficient than its predecessor, equipped with upgraded avionics, HOTAS controls, and modern multi-function displays. It also has an infrared search and track system with a range of about 56 km. This aircraft can carry anti-radar missiles, air-to-ship missiles, and air-to-ground missiles.
According to military experts, the MiG-31BM can be upgraded to carry Kinzhal hypersonic ballistic missiles, which have been effectively used by Russia in Ukraine. Despite some setbacks, Ukraine remains optimistic, citing instances where their Patriot air defense systems have intercepted Kinzhal missiles. While there are no clear records on how many upgraded MiG-31BMs Russia has in its inventory as of 2023, it’s estimated they have around 90 active jets. The number of new deliveries to Russia in 2024 is also unknown. These will soon share the skies with the F-16s over Ukraine.
Russia has extensive experience in military technology development, whether through new inventions or modifying older systems. The MiG-31BM, originally developed during the Cold War to counter NATO bombers, has been upgraded over time to its current form. So why does Russia prefer upgrading the MiG-31BM? Is it a worthy opponent?
Powered by two D-30F6 turbofan engines, the MiG-31BM boasts superior combat capabilities compared to other jets. It can reach altitudes of nearly 21 km and speeds of up to Mach 2.8, or about 3,000 km per hour. The most dangerous aspect of this jet is its air-to-air missiles, the R-77 and R-37, known for their high explosive and fragmentation capabilities.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has assured that Ukraine will be able to defend itself effectively against Russian aggression. The arrival of the F-16s is good news for Ukraine, but these jets might not be a perfect match for their needs. To win this battle, the F-16s need to enhance their defensive and offensive capabilities in Ukraine, including upgrades like modern radars, avionics, and long-range AIM-120 air-to-air missiles.
Russia understands the battlefield well. It’s not the time for long-term technology development experiments; upgrading the MiG-31BM was seen as the right choice. Russia has already demonstrated its air superiority by combining MiG-31BMs with long-range R-37M missiles, successfully downing several aircraft in Ukraine from long distances. If the MiG-31BM is as formidable as claimed, it could pose a significant challenge for Ukraine.
On January 26, 2023, five missiles, including the hypersonic Kinzhal, were fired at Ukrainian targets by a MiG-31. Again, on March 9, 2023, 84 missiles, including six Kinzhal missiles, were launched at Ukrainian cities, overwhelming Ukraine’s defenses. Although Ukraine has formidable MiG-29 and Su-27 jets, they are no match for the MiG-31BM, especially in terms of long-range weaponry.
The arrival of the F-16s is welcome news as they can fire the AIM-120 AMRAAM, an air-to-air missile with a range of nearly 100 miles. In these critical times, Ukraine has been waiting a long time for the F-16s. The promised number of 128 jets may not be enough to fend off Russian aggression. Even if the F-16s can’t secure a decisive victory, they can significantly bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, protecting population centers from daily Russian bombardments.
Ukraine relies on the F-16s due to their ability to carry a wide range of weapons in the US Air Force inventory. While these jets excel in air superiority, without proper control they could be ineffective. The Ukrainian Air Force needs extensive training to operate the F-16s, which isn’t an easy feat during an ongoing war. How long will it take to adapt in this endless conflict?
The F-16s have an impressive service record, with variants regularly upgraded with better avionics, radar, and weaponry. For Ukraine, these jets represent a hopeful yet indirect means of defense, allowing them to allocate more ground-based air defenses to protect civilians and critical infrastructure from indiscriminate Russian missile strikes. But who knows what will happen on the battlefield? Predictions from various perspectives could prove to be incorrect.
Do you think the agile F-16s will frustrate Russia? Will Russia regret using the MiG-31BMs? Leave your thoughts and thanks for reading.
