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MiG-25BM “Foxbat-F”
Introduction
The MiG-25BM was the Soviet Union’s dedicated Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) variant of the famous Foxbat platform, developed to eliminate NATO surface-to-air missile systems, using Kh-58U (AS-11 Kilter), from high altitude and at high speed. It combined the raw performance of the MiG-25PD interceptor with the ground-attack flexibility of the MiG-25RB series, offering a potent strike platform capable of operating deep into enemy airspace while evading or neutralizing radar threats.
Importantly, this jet could carry FAB-250M/500M-62T unguided bombs and R-60 series IR-guided missiles, which is why I’m making this suggestion, even while acknowledging that, at the time of writing, SEAD is not currently a feature in War Thunder. I’m simply proposing a MiG-25 that represents the RB family as a whole, so that Gaijin doesn’t add multiple separate variants.
Most MiG-25RB bombers historically lacked both missile capability and flare dispensers, which would make them relatively limited and unengaging to play in War Thunder. In contrast, the MiG-25BM not only retained full bombing capability, but also had the ability to engage enemy aircraft with R-60 missiles. As a late-production variant, it could have also been equipped with flare dispensers, making it a far more versatile and survivable option compared to ALL earlier RB models.
History
Spoiler
The MiG‑25R series originated in the 1960s, when the Soviet Union sought a high-speed, high-altitude reconnaissance platform to match its interceptor cousin, the MiG‑25P. The initial MiG‑25R model was designed purely for strategic photographic and electronic reconnaissance, exploiting its ability to fly over Mach 2.8 at altitudes exceeding 20 km to evade interception. It carried sophisticated cameras and basic ELINT equipment to survey enemy installations and troop movements deep behind front lines.
Building on this, the MiG‑25RB variant (Razvedchik-Bombardirovshchik, or Reconnaissance-Bomber) was introduced in the early 1970s to add a high-speed bombing capability. It retained the cameras and reconnaissance gear of the MiG‑25R but incorporated a specialized navigation and bombing system that allowed it to release free-fall bombs at very high speeds and altitudes with surprising accuracy for the time. This dual-purpose role made the RB particularly valuable for both strategic reconnaissance and high-risk strike missions against important targets that might be heavily defended.
The MiG‑25RBK was a further development tailored for electronic intelligence (ELINT). To support this mission, it replaced most of its photographic equipment with powerful electronic surveillance systems capable of detecting, recording, and analyzing enemy radar and communications signals over vast areas. Large dielectric panels were built into its design to house the ELINT antennas. Despite this shift in focus, it retained its bombing capability, so it could still deliver bombs on radar installations or other key targets if needed. This made the RBK a versatile tool for mapping and attacking enemy air defense networks.
The MiG‑25RB family continued to evolve with other specialized variants, such as the RBF, which featured more advanced ELINT suites; the RBS and RBSh, which added side-looking radar for better mapping and battlefield surveillance. All of these developments reflected the Soviet priority of having a fast, survivable platform that could not only observe but also directly attack critical targets deep in contested airspace.
The MiG-25BM originated as a development of the MiG-25RB reconnaissance-bomber series, specifically derived from the MiG-25RBK. Like its siblings, the BM replaced the interceptor’s radar with specialized systems in the nose, in this case, the SPS-151/152 “Phantasmagoria-A” radar homing and warning system, designed to detect, track, and engage enemy radar sites. Unlike variants such as the RBF or RBSh, the BM did not feature conventional optical cameras or ground-mapping radars, focusing instead on a dedicated SEAD role using anti-radiation missiles and conventional free-fall bombs.
For the purposes of War Thunder, however, the specific reconnaissance or targeting equipment housed in the nose has negligible gameplay impact. Visually and structurally, the MiG-25BM is nearly identical to other MiG-25RB family aircraft, with the only truly distinguishing physical features being a slightly different parachute housing and minor changes to the nose. These subtle differences are unlikely to affect gameplay.
Unlike their interceptor counterparts, which were typically painted in bland finishes optimized for high-altitude operations, the MiG-25RB-series bombers (Including BM) were occasionally seen in distinctive camouflage schemes. These liveries not only reflected the aircraft’s ground-attack and reconnaissance roles over varied terrain but also gave the RB variants a tactical appearance compared to the sterile, high-altitude look of their interceptor brethren.
Armament & Combat Capability
Spoiler
Although best known for carrying Kh-58U (AS-11 Kilter) anti-radiation missiles on dedicated pylons, the MiG-25BM retained the standard RB-series bomb pylons, allowing it to carry a conventional bomb load. Soviet MiG-25RB bombers typically carried up to 8/10 × FAB-250M-62T or FAB-500M-62T 500 kg bombs. The FAB bombs used by the MiG-25RB family were specifically engineered to withstand the extreme heat generated during high-speed, high-altitude flight. Their engineering choices allowed them to remain stable under the intense aerodynamic heating experienced at supersonic speeds. However, despite this, the safe operational bombing speed was still limited to Mach 2.35, as exceeding that could risk damaging bomb fuzes or compromising structural integrity during release.
These bombs were typically distributed across four underwing and four under-fuselage hardpoints, forming the standard 8-bomb configuration used by the MiG-25RB family. However, at least one loadout schematic of a MiG-25RBT depicts a configuration with 10 FAB-500M-62T bombs, including six mounted under the fuselage. The Soviets did possess pylon configurations capable of carrying three to six bombs at a time (MBD3-U6-68), allowing for dense ordnance loading on a limited number of hardpoints. However, one source claims that instead of mounting three bombs on a single or two triple pylons, an additional double pylon was installed to accommodate the extra ordnance. This configuration, however, lacks any confirmed photographic or visual evidence to support it. Given the shared structure and hardpoint arrangement between the RBT and the BM, it’s plausible that the MiG-25BM could also support this enhanced loadout. It is also said that some RB bombers were equipped with S-24 unguided rockets, although there is no visual evidence of this, but it remains plausible.
As for the wing-mounted bombs, the RB series employed two mounting configurations: one with two bombs positioned side by side (MBDZ-U2 pylon) on a single pylon, and another more aerodynamically refined setup that staggered the bombs in tandem (MBDZ-U2TK pylon), one behind the other. The latter configuration reduced drag and improved high-speed flight characteristics, particularly during supersonic bombing runs. On the MDZU-U2 pylon, the right bomb was released first, followed by the left. In contrast, on the MDBZ-U2TK tandem pylon, the rear bomb detached first, with the front bomb released afterward.
More importantly, there is strong circumstantial evidence that the MiG-25BM could carry R-60 infrared-guided missiles for self-defense. The aircraft retained the standard MiG-25PD underwing pylon setup. While the regular gunsight is relatively small and normally mounted on the cockpit glass frame. This supports the possibility that the BM could carry two R-60s per wing (four total), likely mounted on twin-rail adapters similar to those used by the MiG-25PD. This gave the aircraft a minimal but effective ability to counter interceptors during high-risk missions near enemy air defense zones. Though it lacked internal cannons or dogfighting agility, the MiG-25BM’s combination of speed, altitude, bombs, anti-radiation capability, and missile-based self-defense made it an aggressive and high-risk strike platform, designed to strike deep, fast, and at extreme altitude.
Read the first link in the sources section for more details on cockpit equipment.
Kh-58U (AS-11 Kilter)
Spoiler
The Kh-58U, known in NATO as AS-11 “Kilter,” is a long-range Soviet anti-radiation missile developed to destroy enemy radar installations as part of SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defences) operations. Evolving from the earlier Kh-28, it uses solid-fuel propulsion for greater reliability and performance. The Kh-58U variant, introduced around 1991, improved on the original Kh-58 with extended range, up to about 250 km when launched from high altitudes, and better guidance accuracy.
The missile weighs approximately 640 kg, has a length of nearly 4.8 meters, and carries a 149 kg high-explosive warhead designed to disable large radar sites with a single hit. It relies on a two-phase guidance system: inertial navigation guides it during midcourse flight toward the radar’s last known location, while a passive radar seeker activates in the terminal phase to home in on enemy emissions. Capable of speeds exceeding Mach 3.5, the missile can be fired from platforms like the MiG‑25BM, Su‑24M, Su‑22M4, Su‑25TK, and various Su‑30MK versions. Launch aircraft typically carry the missile on specialized AKU‑58 ejector racks underwing or other compatible pylons, allowing safe separation at high speeds and altitudes. It saw early combat use in the late 1980s, notably with Iraqi forces against Iranian Hawk sites, and has since been used in conflicts like the 2008 Russo-Georgian War and the ongoing war in Ukraine, where it has reportedly targeted systems such as Buk and Osa radars.
In tactical terms, the Kh-58U emphasized survivability and standoff capability, enabling strike aircraft to suppress integrated air defences without having to overfly them. While later supplemented by missiles like the Kh-31P, the Kh-58U remains an important asset for SEAD missions, valued for its long range, high speed, and flexibility in engaging various radar types across multiple frequency bands.
External Fuel
Spoiler
The MiG-25RB type aircraft could be fitted with a massive external fuel tank that carried more fuel than the internal capacity of a MiG-23, significantly extending its operational range without severely compromising its high-speed performance.
Countermeasures
Spoiler
The only confirmed chaff and flare dispensers ever equipped on MiG-25 variants were the BVP-50-60 pods, mounted over the wings. Each pod contained 30 KDS-155 cartridges, providing effective countermeasure coverage. This configuration is clearly visible on Iraqi MiG-25PD/PDS aircraft during the Gulf War era. However, in the context of reconnaissance MiG-25s, they were only supposedly equipped on the MiG-25RBF. However, it was plausible to equip ALL MiG-25 variants with such equipment.
The aircraft came equipped with SPO-15 “Beryoza” radar warning receiver, enhancing its situational awareness against enemy radar threats. Some later-production models also featured additional antennas mounted near the engine intake nozzles.
Flight Performance
Spoiler
The MiG-25BM retained the same airframe and powerplant as the MiG-25PD interceptor and its RB-series bomber counterparts. It was powered by two Tumansky R-15BD-300 turbojet engines, each producing 11,200 kgf of thrust with afterburner, enabling a maximum speed of Mach 2.83 at high altitude. However, operational limitations during strike missions typically restricted the aircraft to around Mach 2.35, in order to avoid overheating or damaging bomb fuses and pylon hardware. R-60 missiles, when carried, were rated for use at speeds up to Mach 2.5.
The RB-series bombers, including the BM, were designed to perform high-speed, high-altitude bombing runs. A typical mission profile involved flying at 2,500 km/h and releasing bombs from an altitude of 20,000 meters. From that height and speed, bombs were released at a stand-off distance of approximately 38.8 kilometers, taking just 76 seconds to reach their target, underscoring the aircraft’s emphasis on survivability through speed and altitude rather than countermeasures or agility.
Contrary to popular belief, flying at Mach 3 and above in the MiG-25 did NOT result in permanent or irreparable engine or airframe damage. Such extreme speeds primarily reduced the service life of the engines and certain airframe components, but did not destroy them outright. In 1971, it was reported that a MiG-25R conducting a reconnaissance mission over Israel operated at full throttle to escape an interception. Upon landing, the canopy sealant had melted from the extreme heat, and ground crews were forced to pry open the cockpit with a crowbar to extract the pilot. To generate such levels of thermal stress, the aircraft must have been flying at speeds estimated around Mach 3.6, approximately 4,445 km/h, surpassing even the operational speeds of the SR-71 Blackbird according to official statistics. If verified, this would represent one of the fastest manned aircraft flights in history.
Summary and Implementation
Spoiler
The MiG-25BM represents a fascinating and underrepresented branch of Foxbat development, a dedicated SEAD aircraft capable of destroying hostile SAM sites, executing bombing missions and defending itself with short-range missiles. Its blistering speed and altitude performance would make it a unique asset in high-tier gameplay, requiring careful planning, altitude control, and hit-and-run tactics.
If implemented, the MiG-25BM should feature a functional ground-attack reticule in third-person view to support high-speed bombing runs, accurately reflecting its real-world radar-assisted strike capability. It should offer an option for a 10-bomb loadout to maximize its ground-attack potential, while also carrying R-60 missiles to provide essential self-defence against enemy aircraft. The addition of chaff and flare dispensers is equally important for survivability against guided threats. Furthermore, once SEAD mechanics are introduced in War Thunder, this aircraft should absolutely receive its historical anti-radiation missile loadouts to fulfil its intended role. Without these key features, the MiG-25BM would fall short of being a worthwhile or authentic addition to the game.
The current ultimate War Thunder loadout would be 8x FAB-500M-62 bombs, 4x R-60 missiles for self-defence, plus chaff/flare dispensers. Carrying two extra 500kg bombs (for 10 total) with R-60s will likely cause an overload, so with 10 500kg bombs you might not be able to carry R-60s. Once SEAD mechanics are introduced in War Thunder, the aircraft could be equipped with 4 × 500 kg bombs or 6 × 250 kg bombs, along with 2 Kh-58U anti-radiation missiles for SEAD roles and 4 R-60 missiles for self-defence.
In the end, these decisions are at Gaijin’s discretion.
MiG-25BM “Foxbat-F” – Full Specifications
Spoiler
General Characteristics
- Role: SEAD / High-speed strike and escort suppression aircraft
- Crew: 1 (pilot)
- Length: 22.27 meters
- Wingspan: 13.42 meters
- Height: 6.00 meters
- Wing Area: 62.40 m²
Weights
- Empty Weight: 20,600 kg
- Normal Takeoff Weight: 37,000 kg
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 41,200 kg
Powerplant
- Engines: 2 × Tumansky R-15BD-300 turbojet engines
- Dry Thrust: 2 × 86.3 kN
- With Afterburner: 2 × 109.8 kN
Performance
- Maximum Speed: 3,000 km/h+ (Mach 2.83+)
- Cruising Speed: 2,345 km/h (Mach 2.2–2.3)
- Service Ceiling: 24,000 meters
- Rate of Climb: 208–214 meters per second (about 41,000 feet per minute)
G-Load Limits (Overload)
- Sustained maximum G-load (MiG-25R): 3.8 G
- Alternative reported sustained limit (MiG-25R): 4.5 G - 5.0 G
- Absolute structural design limit: 11.5 G (not achievable in practice, structural limit only)
Range
- Ferry Range: 3,200 km
- Combat Radius:
- At supersonic speed: 1,635 km
- At subsonic speed: 1,865 km
- With 5,300-liter external fuel tank:
- Supersonic: 2,130 km
- Subsonic: 2,400 km
Avionics
- Targeting System: SPS-151/152 “Phantasmagoria-A” anti-radiation homing system
- Navigation/Bombing Computer: Peleng navigation complex
- Radar Warning Receiver: SPO-15 “Beryoza”
- Countermeasures: Chaff/flare dispensers (BVP-50-60 with KDS-155 cartridges)
Armament
- Air-to-Air Missiles:
- 2–4 × R-60/R-60M IR-guided missiles (for self-defense)
- Air-to-Surface Missiles:
- 2–4 × Kh-58U (AS-11 “Kilter”) anti-radiation missiles for SEAD missions
- Bomb Load (Conventional):
- Up to 5,000 kg of specific, high-speed, general-purpose bombs (FAB-250M-62T or FAB-500M-62T)
- Configurations with 8–10 bombs possible, using underwing and under-fuselage pylons
- S-24 rockets (Plausible)
- Maximum Payload Capacity:
- Up to 5,000 kg
Video
