Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25RBT Aircraft “Red 46, 47th Guards Reconnaissance Aviation Regiment, 2nd Squadron” (2001) Russian Air Force “Air Power Series” 1/72 Diecast Model by Hobby Master

Product Description

HISTORY ASPECTS:
The MiG-25RBT “Foxbat-B” was a high-speed reconnaissance and electronic warfare variant of the Soviet-era MiG-25 interceptor. Developed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich design bureau, the RBT variant combined the high-speed reconnaissance features of the MiG-25RB series with updated ELINT (Electronic Intelligence) capabilities. “Red 46,” serving in the 47th Guards Reconnaissance Aviation Regiment (GRAP), 2nd Squadron, was one of the few MiG-25RBTs still in service into the early 2000s. Operating from Shatalovo Air Base, it symbolized the lingering presence of Cold War-era assets in post-Soviet Russia’s tactical air force.
In May 2001, Red 46 was documented conducting a training sortie configured with eight FAB-500M-62 general-purpose bombs, a relatively rare loadout for an aircraft more commonly seen in the reconnaissance role. This configuration underlined the MiG-25RBT’s secondary capability as a high-speed bomber—an attribute exploited during its service in the 1970s and 1980s in both the Soviet-Afghan War and overseas deployments such as in the Middle East. Although its primary mission remained tactical and strategic reconnaissance, it could deliver conventional payloads at supersonic speeds from high altitudes, allowing it to evade interception in most scenarios.
While the MiG-25RBT was largely obsolete by the early 2000s, aircraft like Red 46 continued to provide valuable reconnaissance and electronic intelligence in border patrol operations and strategic exercises. The 47th GRAP, as part of the Russian Air Force’s electronic warfare and recon force, played a key role in maintaining aerial situational awareness and readiness during a transitional period for Russian military aviation. The Foxbat’s sheer speed—exceeding Mach 2.8—and its ability to operate at extreme altitudes remained unmatched, ensuring it stayed relevant long after its contemporaries had been retired.
This 1:72 scale model captures the intimidating presence and sleek, powerful design of the legendary Soviet recon jet. Fully outfitted with its distinctive eight FAB-500 bombs and authentic markings from the 47th GRAP, it’s an essential addition for Cold War and modern Russian aviation enthusiasts alike.