Mig‑31k jets return to Belarus, renewing Ukraine tensions
After a year and a half break, MiG-31K fighters have arrived in Belarus. These are among the most dangerous Russian aircraft, capable of carrying the hypersonic Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles that pose a threat to the entire territory of Ukraine.
The information about the presence of MiG-31K fighters in Belarus was first shared by Belarusian Hajun, an opposition project monitoring the military situation in the country. The Russians sent two of these fighters to their ally, landing at the Machulishchy airfield.
MiG-31K in Belarus
Ukrainian media and Western observers emphasize that MiG-31K fighters have returned to Belarus after a lengthy absence—they were last stationed there in April 2023. It remains unclear what the Russians' intentions are, but the greatest concern is the weaponry that these aircraft can carry—the hypersonic Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles.
The MiG-31K fighter measures about 22 metres long and over 6 metres in width. It can reach speeds of up to approximately 3,000 kilometres per hour. It is equipped with a standard six-barreled 23 mm automatic cannon but also adapted to carry additional armaments.
From the Ukrainian perspective, the most significant threat is the hypersonic Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles, which have a range of up to 2,000 kilometres. The launch of such a missile by a MiG-31K pilot, for example from Belarusian airspace, puts the entire Ukraine within its range. The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles are also distinguished by their high flight speed. The Russians claim it is up to 10 Mach (more likely about 8 Mach), which poses a challenge for air defence systems. In practice, American Patriot systems handle this Russian weapon best.
Ukrainian aviation expert Konstantin Kryvolap believes, however, that the MiG-31K fighters sent to Belarus will not be used to attack Ukraine. He thinks their arrival in Belarus is a "demonstrative show aimed at showing that such capabilities exist." In his view, the Russians will not risk losing these fighters. A more likely scenario is the launch of Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles from Russia, which could then fly through Belarusian territory and reach Ukraine. This would not be the first such situation, as a similar event was observed during the recent shelling of Lviv.
