Russian Aerospace Forces have released a relatively complete launch process of the "Kinzhal" hypersonic missile. It can be seen that the MiG-31 interceptor and the Tu-22M3 "Backfire" bomber are both carrying the "Kinzhal" into the air, but the footage of the MiG-31 interceptor launching the "Kinzhal" is spliced, as this footage already existed before the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Because the maximum flight speed of the MiG-31 can reach 2.8 Mach, and its practical ceiling exceeds 20 kilometers. This high-altitude and high-speed characteristic provides initial kinetic energy and altitude advantage for the "Kinzhal" hypersonic missile, allowing it to have a high initial speed at launch, significantly reducing the time required for the missile to accelerate to hypersonic (over 5 Mach), and also extending the range.
The combination of the MiG-31 and the "Kinzhal" is a practical choice for Russia, based on existing technology, by leveraging the synergistic effect of "high-speed carrier aircraft + hypersonic weapon", achieving rapid strike and breaking through the anti-missile system. This pairing not only leverages Russia's traditional strengths in high-speed interceptors, but also aligns with its "asymmetric warfare" strategic approach.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1839855173082123/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.