Kinzhal missile tested in Arctic


MiG-31K fighter jet for the first time fired Kinzhal air ballistic missile in the Russian Arctic at Pemboi range to the northeast of Vorkuta in mid-November, two sources in the defense industry told TASS.


Kinzhal missile tested in Arctic A Kh-47M2 Kinzhal ALBM being carried by a Mikoyan MiG-31K interceptor (Picture source: kremlin.ru)


"The trials were held in mid-November. The missile was launched at a ground target at Pemboi range by MiG-31K aircraft which took off from Olenegorsk airfield," a source said.

Another source confirmed the trials adding the speed reached Mach 10.

The Aerospace Forces refused comment.

The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal ("dagger") is a Russian nuclear-capable air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM). It has a claimed range of more than 2,000 km (1,200 mi), Mach 10 speed, and an ability to perform evasive maneuvers at every stage of its flight. It can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads and can be launched from Tu-22M3 bombers or MiG-31K interceptors.

Kinzhal is the latest Russian weapon comprising MiG-31K aircraft and an air ballistic missile. Media said Kinzhal is an airborne option of Iskander tactical missile. One squadron of MiG-31K with hypersonic missiles is currently on combat test duty in the Southern Military District.


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