Developed as a successor to the MiG-25, the MiG-31 (NATO reporting name: Foxhound) first flew in 1979. Its general appearance is very similar to that of its predecessor: a bulky aircraft with large shoulder-mounted delta wings, rectangular air intake trunks, and sharply swept tailplanes. Differences include the canopy frames, the presence of a second canopy for the dedicated weapon system officer, a small leading edge extension, outward-canted vertical fins and larger engine exhausts.
The MiG-31 is slower than the MiG-25, but is better armed and has improved avionics and maneuverability.
Main armament consists primarily of the R-33/AA-9 'Amos' air-to-air missile and a 23mm cannon. The MiG-31 can also carry other air-to-air missiles and fuel tanks.
This jet fighter is featured in the anime Stratos 4, where a modified version is used by the protagonists.
