The Fastest Military Jets in History
Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound

The MiG-31 Foxhound hit new highs in aerospace world records when it smashed a max altitude record of 123,520 feet back in 1977. It also set a new record for time to height – 115,000 feet in 4:11.78 minutes. Consequently, the MiG-31 showed a lot of promise for the Soviet Union for a new generation of fighter jet aircraft. It was also a first generation of aircraft capable of using its radar to detect and intercept stealth aircraft. The Foxhound marked the introduction into a new wave of air superiority contests between the Soviet Union and NATO. It could very quickly get to altitude, sustain a long time in the air, lock onto conventional and stealth air targets, and deliver long-range, radar-guided missiles. This effectively changed the face of the air contest. The Foxhound is still in service by Russia and is expected to remain in the air until 2030.
- Top Speed: 1,860 mph
- Max Flight Distance: 900 miles with internal fuel