US B‑1B bombers face off with Russian MiG‑31 over Barents Sea
3:11 PM EDT, March 26, 2024
US Air Force B-1B bombers reportedly encountered a Russian MiG-31 fighter jet during a mission over the Barents Sea, as detailed by The Barents Observer. This engagement occurred when the Russians deployed their aircraft to intercept the American bombers. The capabilities of these aircraft demonstrate a remarkable feat of engineering and power.
Such deterring flights by the Russians are not uncommon. A notable instance happened in mid-March, triggered by Sweden's move to join NATO. The Russian Federation dispatched a Tu-22M3 bomber alongside MiG-31 fighters, equipped with Kinzhal missiles, over the Baltic Sea. On Sunday, March 24, a similar event unfolded. The deployment of the Russian MiG-31 was apparently in response to the presence of two American B-1B bombers near Russian airspace over the Barents Sea, after having traversed Norwegian airspace.
According to The Barents Observer, the US aircraft never entered Russian airspace. The dispatched MiG-31 escorted the bombers away from Russia. Accompanying the B-1B bombers over the Barents Sea were three KC-135 Stratotanker aerial tankers, which were not subjected to interception. This incident coincided with the NATO Nordic Response 2024 exercises.
Remarkable B-1B Bombers over the Barents Sea
The B-1B bombers stand out for several reasons. Firstly, they are among the loudest aircraft in the world. Equipped with four General Electric engines, boasting a combined thrust of approximately 146,000 lbf, they produce noise levels up to 140 dB.
Additionally, B-1Bs feature variable wing geometry. This design allows the wings to adjust their angles in flight, enabling the aircraft to attain high speeds while conserving fuel, thanks to reduced air resistance.
These bombers are capable of speeds up to 1.25 Mach (about 807 mph) and can operate at altitudes of up to 59,055 feet. With a range of nearly 7,456 miles, B-1Bs can execute intercontinental missions carrying weapons across six nodes and within three bomb bays.
Conversely, the MiG-31 used by the Russians to intercept the American bombers is a formidable fighter jet, capable of speeds up to 2.8 Mach (about 2,112 mph). Its standout attribute is the capacity to carry the Ch-47M2 Kinzhal missiles, some of Russia's most advanced weaponry. The Kinzhal can target locations approximately 1,242 miles away and travels at speeds up to 8 Mach (about 6,090 mph).
