Russian Aerospace Forces MiG-31K fighter pilot recorded a video at an altitude of about 22,000 meters, and also took a photo of the "Kinzhal" hypersonic missile being launched towards the target while returning.
The MiG-31 can reach a maximum speed of 2.8 Mach (about 3,000 kilometers per hour), making it one of the fastest operational fighters in service today. Hypersonic missiles require high kinetic energy in the initial stage to shorten engine acceleration time, and the high-speed flight of the MiG-31 can directly provide a high initial velocity launch environment for the "Kinzhal", significantly improving the effective range and penetration capability of the "Kinzhal" hypersonic missile. Usually, the MiG-31 launches the "Kinzhal" above 20,000 meters, which reduces the resistance of the dense lower atmosphere, allowing the missile to enter the hypersonic glide phase faster.
Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1840764498210891/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.