New images added Hobby Master HA5655 MIG-25BM white 43, Ahtubinsk Airfield, 1987 (w/4 x KH-58 missiles)
In 1987, the Soviet Union operated the MiG-25BM Foxbat F at Akhtubinsk as part of flight test and evaluation units. The MiG-25BM was a specialized suppression of enemy air defences aircraft designed to attack radar and surface to air missile sites using anti radiation missiles. Based at the Gromov Flight Research Institute at Akhtubinsk, these aircraft were used to refine tactics, weapons integration, and mission profiles. The MiG-25BM retained the high speed and altitude performance of the Foxbat, allowing rapid penetration of defended airspace. It represented a unique SEAD capability within the Soviet Air Forces during the Cold War. The Kh-58 is a Soviet and Russian anti radiation missile used to destroy radar systems. Carried by aircraft like the MiG-25BM and Su-24, it homes in on radar emissions, enabling suppression of enemy air defences. Its high speed and range make it effective against surface to air missile sites.
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25BM Foxbat-F
Designed as a high-speed, high-altitude interceptor to counter the threat posed by the US XB-70 Valkyrie bomber, the MiG-25 was first flown on September 9th, 1964. The airframe was designed around a pair of massive Tumansky R-15(B) turbojet engines, capable of propelling it to a top speed of around Mach 3. The Foxbat is one of the fastest production aircraft to enter service. In addition to the interceptor variants, numerous reconnaisance variants were also produced. The MiG-25 has seen service with several air forces besides Russia including those of Iraq, Egypt, Libya and Syria.
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