The Russian military has released footage of special training munitions of the long-range air-to-air missiles and their integration with MiG-31BM interceptor aircraft.
Footage released shows the suspension of R-33 air-to-air missiles, allegedly equipped with nuclear warheads, although the existence of such warheads has not been officially confirmed.
The R-33 (NATO classification: AA-9 Amos) is a long-range air-to-air missile, capable of intercepting various aerial targets, including cruise missiles, at speeds up to 3,000 km/h. Initially introduced in 1981, the R-33 missile is traditionally known for its conventional 55 kg fragmentation warhead.
Reports from Russian specialized publications have previously suggested the development of a nuclear variant of the R-33, though verifiable information on its capabilities remains unavailable. The primary purpose of the R-33 missile is to target enemy bombers and missile carriers before they can launch attacks or intercept cruise missiles, even those flying at very low altitudes.
The recent training highlights Russia’s ongoing efforts to enhance its aerial combat capabilities and maintain strategic deterrence. However, potentially nuclear-equipped air-to-air missiles represent a Cold War-era tactic when the Soviet Union prepared for attacks by mass formations of high-speed bombers.