Mikoyan MiG-29
The Mikoyan MiG-29 is a Soviet twin-engine fighter developed for frontline air defence and air superiority. NATO assigned it the reporting name Fulcrum, and the aircraft became one of the Soviet Union’s most widely exported modern fighters.[1]
Development
The MiG-29 was designed as a shorter-range complement to the larger Su-27. Its first prototype flew in 1977, and operational aircraft entered Soviet service in 1983. Warsaw Pact and other allied countries soon received the type.
After the Soviet Union’s dissolution, Mikoyan developed improved MiG-29SMT, carrier-capable MiG-29K and extensively revised MiG-29M versions. The related MiG-35 carries the design into a newer generation.[1]
Design
Two widely spaced RD-33 engines and broad leading-edge root extensions give the MiG-29 high manoeuvrability. Early aircraft could close their main intakes during ground operations and draw air through upper auxiliary intakes, reducing foreign-object damage from rough airfields.
A helmet-mounted sight and infrared search-and-track sensor allowed off-boresight engagements with short-range missiles. Later versions add increased fuel, modern displays, improved radar and a wider selection of guided air-to-surface weapons.
Operational history
MiG-29s have served across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East and have participated in conflicts from the Gulf and Balkans to Eritrea and Ukraine. Results have varied according to training, support, sensors and the tactical situation.
Several NATO members inherited or acquired MiG-29s and used them for air policing before retirement or transfer. India operates both land- and carrier-based versions.
Variants and operators
The aircraft family includes MiG-29A; MiG-29UB; MiG-29S; MiG-29SMT; MiG-29K; MiG-29M. Equipment, weapons and mission systems differ among production blocks and national fleets.
Principal or notable users include Russian Aerospace Forces; Indian Air Force; Polish Air Force; Ukrainian Air Force; numerous other operators. Some operators have retired early versions while others continue upgrades or new procurement.[1]
Specifications
Published performance figures depend on configuration, fuel, altitude and mission profile. Representative figures for the family include a maximum speed of Mach 2.25 and a range of Approximately 1,430 km internal-fuel ferry range; greater with external tanks. The usual crew is 1 or 2, and power is provided by 2 × Klimov RD-33 afterburning turbofans.[1]