I’ll just add my two cents to this discussion, and quote Yefim Gordon from his book “Famous Russia Aircrafts – Mikoyan MiG-31”:
MiG-31E Export Intreceptor
At various times suck nations as Iran, Syria, Libya and China showed an interest in the MiG-31. Therefore, as early as 1987 a production MiG-31B (c/n N38401208786) was converted into the demostrator of an export version designed MiG-31E (eksportnyy – export, used attributively). The aircraft received distinctive blue/white trim over the standard overall grey colour shceme and the tactical code ‘903 White’.
The MiG-31E was armed with four R-33s [AA-9 Amos] (in an export version) and two or four ‘dogfight missiles’ on underwing pylons. The avionics fit (notably the IFF and the ECM systems) was altered.
The MiG-31E’s roles included acting as an airborne command post for other fighter types, such as the MiG-21, MiG-23 and MiG-29, which were in service with the air forces of the nations listed above. Therefore, even the purchase of a couple of MiG-31E could bolster the customer nation’s air defence appreciably.
‘903 White’ made its public debut at the ILA-92 airshow at Berling-Schönefeld. Afterwards it participated in numerous other showes, including MAKS-99.
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