Russians have an "ace up their sleeve": the brutal MiG-41 is coming and it will be a "game changer"

Known as the MiG-41, this aircraft aims to push the boundaries not only in our atmosphere, but also to fly into low space orbits.

This state-of-the-art project is inspired by the time-honored MiG-31M and promises to have features the likes of which the aviation world has never seen before.

Even ardent aviation enthusiasts may not be aware of the existence of a modernized version of the MiG-31, the MiG-31M - said to have been developed in the 90s, and this overlooked aircraft could soon become legendary. Its lack of fame and the reasons behind the halted mass production are still the subject of speculation among Russian analysts.

Despite this, the MiG-31M deserves recognition. That's because the work put into it is suspected to lay the groundwork for the eagerly anticipated next-generation supersonic interceptor, the MiG-41.

Emerging from a rigorous modernization process, the MiG-31M sports improvements both externally and internally. Notable upgrades, apart from its visual appeal, include an expanded 300 liter fuel tank, an advanced Zaslon-M radar, as well as the capacity to carry 6 air-to-air missiles.

Estimates by Russian experts, often cited in recent media reports, suggest that sixth-generation MiG-41 VKS (Russian Aerospace Forces) fighter jets will take to the skies by 2025.

The main challenge to realizing this vision seems to be the ongoing development of the pulse-detonation engine that will power the aircraft.

Russian tech magazine Sfera notes: "While progress is being made, we are entering uncharted territory here. Questions may arise about the resources needed to address engine wear issues, given the extreme dynamic load they will endure."

According to local speculation, the craft could be designed to operate using an alternative engine. Potential options include a second stage engine borrowed from the Su-57 or a P-579-300 engine from the Soyuz AMNTK.

It is interesting that the P-579-300 already has a developed gas generator. The P-79-300, previously used in the Yak-141, serves as the base model for this development.

Armament

According to Military Watch, Russia is developing an electromagnetic pulse system that would represent a potential game changer in the field of aerial warfare.

This innovative "energy cannon" could expand the range of achievable targets. This development poses a serious threat, potentially surpassing the already powerful Su-57 and upcoming MiG-41.

Sources in Russia suggest the possible use of a less powerful version of the EMP cannon as an effective deterrent against drones.

There is also speculation that the yet-to-be-launched MiG-41 could be equipped with R-37 missiles.

Russian publication Izvestia reports that the MiG-41 could have a multi-role interceptor missile system, capable of handling hypersonic munitions with multiple warheads.

If the MiG-41 successfully completes its first flight by 2025, it is expected to be fully operational by 2030.