Russia Showcases ‘Kinzhal’ Nuclear-Capable Air-Launched Ballistic Missile at Air Show

August 13, 2019

The Diplomat:

Two Russian MIG-31K interceptors, each carrying one Kh-47M2 Kinzhal (“Dagger”) air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM), for the first time took part in an airshow at the Dubrovichi testing range in the Ryazan Region in central Russia, as part of this year’s Aviadarts 2019 international competition on August 10, according to a Russian defense ministry statement.

The the Aviadats competition is part of the International Army Games, hosted by the Russian military, and involves the air forces of China, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Russia.

“During the Aviamix tactical episode that will be held at the Dubrovichi training range on August 10 as part of the Aviadarts 2019 international competition, the Kinzhal airborne missile system will be involved for the first time,” an August 9 defense ministry statement reads. “MiG-31 planes will interact with MiG-31BM interceptor-fighters to provide cover for attack aircraft in destroying a battery of a notional enemy’s surface-to-air missile systems.”

Read the full article