Concern gripped Europe after it was revealed that the MiG-31I version includes aerial refueling capability, thus multiplying its range. The newest version of Russia’s MiG-31 Foxhound fighter, named the MiG-31I, includes a key upgrade: the aircraft can now be refueled in flight, dramatically increasing its flight range.
More specifically and according to data revealed by the Russian state agency TASS, the MiG-31I fighter jet has been modified and equipped with an aerial refueling mechanism to extend its combat radius.
Although this report has not been confirmed by any official body, it is a very logical upgrade given the role the MiG-31 Foxhound fighter was designed to play. We are dealing with a long-range fighter-interceptor aircraft, the radius of action of which is one of its most important elements.
The MiG-31 is actually the fastest operational combat aircraft in the world and has been in service for over 40 years. During these 4 decades the platform has received many upgrades, with aerial refueling capability being the newest of them. The MiG-31I version is generally one of the most advanced versions available.
Another Russian TASS source stressed that it is wrong to confuse the MiG-31I version with the MiG-31K version, because they are two different aircraft with different engines, electronics and missiles. The MiG-31K version became famous for carrying Russian Kinzhal hypersonic ballistic missiles for the first time.
Finally, let us inform you that the rest of the upgrades included in the MiG-31I version are confidential. We know very little about the fighter in question, most of which is unconfirmed. For example, they are rumored to have new electronic systems and an electronic remote control system, which helps the aircraft automatically follow the desired course.
