Four air raid alerts in 24 hours due to Russian MiG-31K takeoffs, says air force
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Ukraine experienced four air raid alerts across its entire territory on August 17 due to takeoffs of Russian MiG-31K fighter jets, capable of carrying the Kh-47 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ihnat said on August 18.
“Previously, the MiG-31 jets have frequently undertaken flights lasting more than an hour. This is how the fighter jets consume their fuel during training,” Ihnat said.
"Yesterday, there were simply more takeoffs, probably for training flights. Aviation, particularly flight crews, requires maintaining constant flying skills. This includes takeoff and landing, transitioning to the missile launch line, and other tactical techniques specific to this type of aircraft."
The "K" modification on the MiG-31 signifies that the aircraft can carry the Kinzhal missile. Consequently, the air defense forces must respond preemptively, leading to the triggering of an air raid alert across all of Ukraine due to the missile's long-range, Ihnat said.
At the same time, conducting training flights does not guarantee that the Russians will abstain from launching missiles, Ihnat said.
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