Upgraded MiG is 'best aircraft in the world'

The Kansk air group is the first and only sub-unit in Russia's Central Military District to be fully equipped with upgraded planes, according to a report on Zvezda TV, closely linked to the country's Defence Ministry. Reports say it is the fastest military plane in the world. 

'Over the past year, the entire flight personnel received relevant training at Russian training centres,' said the report.

Yevgeniy Portnov, MiG-31BM aircraft commander said: 'It was easy for me to master this aircraft. I flew my 13th flight independently. 

'The aircraft is very good, smooth to control,' he said. 'But it requires very good theoretical as well as physical training. Of course, it is breathtaking when you realise that you are flying the best aircraft in the world. You even feel a certain pride.'

The plane is fitted with a sophisticated digital display system in the cockpit to enable the crew to monitor the tactical situation during flights and determine the locations of both friendly aircraft and targets. Sighting systems on the aircraft are also improved. 

'The aircraft is equipped with an absolutely new system of air weapons. The engineer group personnel are conducting an exercise in mounting a guided air-to-air missile,' said the report.

'Today the modern fighter interceptor can lock on and simultaneously destroy more targets than its predecessor. The effective range has also been increased. The aircraft's excellent combat capabilities match the importance of the tasks fulfilled by the Siberian air group.'

The aircraft has a target acquisition and target engagement range to 320 and 280 km respectively. It is capable of  tracking up to 10 targets and hitting six simultaneously. It can intercept not only strike aircraft but also cruise missiles.

The upgraded aircraft is also being deployed on Novaya Zemlya island off the northern coast of Russia.