Mig 29 fuel tank. Legendary planes

Despite the skepticism towards this aircraft, it has proven itself with the best side. The MiG-29 was produced in large numbers and sold very well abroad.
Undoubtedly, the MiG-29 is one of the most successful fighters of the Soviet era. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it can fly at high angles of attack. In order to hit a missile, or to go up sharply, the pilot can pull the levers beyond the limiters, which is not available to Western fighter counterparts.

The first flight of the fighter took place on October 6, 1977. Since 1983, he began to enter combat units.

The power plant of the MiG-29 SMT: two bypass turbojet

In the early 70s, the development of the latest fighter aircraft was actively carried out, one of them was the MiG-29, which was created by the design bureau. A.I. Mikoyan. MiG-29 became the fourth generation of light fighters. At that time, this machine had excellent flight characteristics and was not inferior in quality to any fighter in the world.

The history of the appearance of the MiG-29

The design bureau in the early 70s began to develop two qualitatively new fighters, the difference between them was the weight of the machine itself. The projected heavy fighter was called TPFI, and the light model was called LPFI. As a result, two magnificent fighters came out of these design models. The Su-27 came out of the heavy TPFI, and the MiG-29 came out of the light model of the LPFI fighter.

The main task of the designers was to create a new and high-quality fighter that would not be inferior in performance to the American counterparts of the F series, namely the well-known F-15 and F-16. The following tasks were set before the new aircraft: gaining leadership in the air over the place of hostilities, delivering strikes with the help of unguided weapons against ground targets. But the last task could only be carried out in the presence of excellent weather conditions.

This generation of fighters was not made according to the old principle of increasing speed and maximum climb. This aircraft model received excellent maneuverability in the vertical plane, which was achieved with the help of high engine thrust. According to the developments of the designers, the new fighter was supposed to have two engines. The final model of the aircraft, which was put into production, was quite different from the first design models. This aircraft, according to the design bureau classification, was called "Product No. 9" and was very different from previous MiG models. In parallel with the Mikoyanites, the designers of the Sukhoi bureau also came to the development of a similar project, which was called the Su-27. Both models of fighter aircraft were designed on the principle of an integral layout.

All design innovations gave product No. 9 high maneuverability, and powerful new engines - high thrust-to-weight ratio, which was at a qualitatively new level - 1.1. Today, this value of aircraft thrust is very high. MiG-29 is currently the most thrust-armed fighter on our planet. At one time, the elite pilot unit "Swifts", which used this fighter, had its own business card, namely, the execution of the loop immediately from takeoff.

Design developments and experiences

The peak of the design and experiments of the new fighter fell on 1974-1977. 19 new experimental models were allowed to test, among which was a two-seat car. The first prototype under the name "9-01" was lifted into the air by test pilot A.V. Fedotov in October 77. Models "9-02" and "9-04" were intended to test the performance and capabilities of the engines of the new fighter. Unfortunately, both prototypes crashed, but the pilots managed to eject in time and survive.

The aircraft under the working title "9-03" became the prototype of the MiG-29 fighter. The rest of the prototype models were used to test and improve the aircraft's onboard systems. During the tests, a defect in the insufficient stability of the aircraft was established. This problem was solved by installing ventral fins, and then on production models, starting from the fourth, this problem was eliminated by increasing the rudders, and the fins were no longer used. The design bureau planned a full and comprehensive test of all 19 prototypes, during which time these aircraft made about 2 thousand sorties.

Full-scale production of the MiG-29 fighter aircraft began in 1982 at one of the oldest aircraft factories in our country, namely at the Znamya Truda plant, which is located in the capital of our country. The final assembly of the aircraft took place in Lukhovitsy, and the flight of the manufactured machines was immediately carried out.

WITH mass production this fighter model was removed in 1990, during these 8 years of manufacture more than a thousand combat vehicles were produced, and 300 units were exported to other countries. The number of 29 MiGs could have been much larger, but in the 90s, the advantage was given to the best, as the designers believed, Su-27 fighter aircraft. Despite this, in the 90s and early 2000s, the production of MiGs continued, but in small batches. For all the time, 1.5 thousand MiG-29s were designed and launched into the sky.

Description of the MiG-29 fighter aircraft

The main task of the new generation of aircraft was the effective destruction of enemy forces both in the air and on the ground. To create a fighter to such requirements, the designers had to apply the latest developments in the field of avionics, as well as resort to the use of advances in aerodynamics. The new aircraft also had innovations in the fuselage itself, since it was made of an alloy of aluminum and lithium, and all riveted joints, as was the case in previous aircraft, were replaced with welds.

The new materials that were used in the manufacture of the fighter contributed to a significant reduction in the weight of the aircraft. Also, the new alloy and welding connections made it possible to avoid overlap joints, which made it easier to seal the fuel compartments. When creating the MiG-29, a decision was made to reduce the visibility of the aircraft on radar. For this, for the first time, materials were used that could absorb radio waves.

Innovations and adjustments were also made to the aerodynamic characteristics of the new fighter. They decided to make the wings sharper, which made it possible to improve the quality of aircraft control even at low speeds. The system that protected the engine from foreign objects was also changed. Other systems have also changed. Innovations took place in the parachute-braking system and the landing gear release system.

For the first time, it was decided to make full use of the concept of instability, which may in the future serve to improve the aircraft's maneuverability and range. This could be done at the expense of balancing losses that occur at cruising speed. To achieve improvements, the fighter aircraft was equipped with a fly-by-wire system with which the aircraft could be controlled.

It was planned to subject weapons and avionics to change and qualitative improvement. The pilots, who first tested the new MiG-29 fighter aircraft, noted that the machine is very maneuverable and has excellent controllability. Experienced testers believed that this was exactly the combat vehicle that our army lacked.

The MiG-29 has modifications that could perform more specific missions and tasks. In 1988, the MiG-29K fighter aircraft was designed and manufactured specifically for aircraft carriers, a feature of which was the ability to fold wings for compact placement of the aircraft on board the ship. Also, this model was equipped with a hook and had a reinforced chassis for landing on the deck of a ship. For the first time, the MiG-29K took off from the deck of an aircraft carrier in 1989.

This fighter aircraft is very popular in many countries of the world due to its reliability and excellent flight characteristics. To date, this aircraft model is in service with 25 countries of the world, but the largest number of such aircraft guards the skies of Russia.

The Russian model of a fighter aircraft called the MiG-29 is superior in many respects to foreign analogues of aircraft, even the well-known American aircraft of the F model. The biggest advantage is excellent aerodynamics, the aircraft has a small turning radius. The advantage of this machine can be called a high angular velocity during turns, it can easily perform maneuvers that take place at high overloads.

The aircraft is able to conduct active combat using cannons, while performing active maneuvers. The MiG-29 can intercept reconnaissance and attack aircraft, even those flying very low. The uniqueness of this model of the aircraft is also that it can take off and lift off the ground on one working engine, and only then launch the second one in flight. This advantage saves time very well, especially during hostilities.

The MiG-29 combat fighter was used in many military operations and proved to be an excellent defender of the sky.

The MiG-29 can maneuver directly next to an aerial target, and its longitudinal axis, and its weapons, may not be directed directly at the target. Using a helmet-mounted sight or an infrared guidance system, the pilot selects a target that is off-axis of flight.

The fighter is designed so that it can be a short time service between flights. It can take off and land on unprepared airfields with underdeveloped infrastructure for flights.

MiG-29 photo

Although this aircraft is considered the best fighter in the world, it, like any machine, has its drawbacks. According to the concept of the Soviet era, there was a special look at the role of fighter aircraft. It was expressed in the ability of fighter aircraft to detect and destroy the target as quickly as possible, which makes them more dependent on ground-based early warning and surveillance platforms.

Although the MiG-29 was an independent combat unit when performing a combat mission, its radar and displays in the cockpit were not provided to the pilot necessary information, and deprived him of the opportunity to independently assess the situation in the air.

MiG-29 scheme

The armament of the MiG-29 for close combat is considered almost ideal, but the means of hitting targets out of sight are mediocre. Another drawback of the aircraft is its short range and short flight duration. This problem arose from the fact that it had small internal fuel tanks, and it could not carry out combat duty over long distances.

MiG-29 characteristics

• Crew - 1 person
• Max Speed flight: near the ground - 1500 km/h
• Maximum flight speed: at high altitude - 2400 km / h
• Practical ceiling - 18000 m
• Rate of climb - 330 m/s
• Operational overload - 9
• Maximum range with one external fuel tank - 2100 km
• Takeoff weight: normal - 14750 kg
• Takeoff weight: maximum - 17720 kg
• Maximum payload weight - 3000 kg
• Aircraft length - 17.32 m
• Aircraft height - 4.73 m
• Wingspan - 11.36 m

MiG-29 armament:

gun mount TKB-687 (gun GSh-301);

two medium-range air-to-air guided missiles;

short range guided missile

R-73, or six R-60 M missiles.

In the 1990s, a new long-range multi-purpose MiG-29M was ready for production, which in all respects was suitable for detecting and hitting targets at long distances, but due to underfunding, all Mikoyan Design Bureau projects remained on paper.

For the MiG-29S fighters, six R-27T missiles were additionally placed.

The use of unguided weapons is envisaged: S-8 (40-80 rockets with a caliber of 80 mm), or four S-24 B rockets (240 mm); free-fall bombs caliber 250, 500 kg.

The MiG-29 aircraft is in service in many countries of the world, including in the countries of the former Soviet republics.

MiG-29 video

Soviet and Russian multi-role fighter of the fourth generation, created in the MiG Design Bureau.

Story

The first developments in the design of a light front-line fighter (LFI) of a new generation started in the late 1960s. In 1969, the USSR learned about program F-X US Air Force (the result of the program was the creation of the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle). Soon, the leadership of the USSR came to the conclusion that the new American fighter was significantly superior to any of the existing Soviet fighters. The MiG-21 was quite modern, but inferior in terms of flight range, armament, and the possibility of improvement. The MiG-23 was fast enough and provided more space for fuel and equipment, but not enough maneuverable and agile in close air combat. The Air Force needed a high-tech, well-balanced fighter with good maneuverability. In 1969, a competition was announced for the creation of such an aircraft, which received the designation PFI (promising front-line fighter). The performance requirements for such an aircraft were very ambitious: a long range, the ability to use short runways (including the use of poorly prepared runways), excellent agility, speeds above 2M and heavy weapons. The aerodynamic design of the new aircraft was carried out by TsAGI in cooperation with the Sukhoi Design Bureau. The design bureaus of the Sukhoi Design Bureau and the Yakovlev Design Bureau, as well as Mikoyan and Gurevich, took part in the competition. OKB MiG was declared the winner.

In 1971, it became clear that PFI aircraft were too expensive to meet the Air Force's needs for fighters exclusively. Therefore, the project was divided into TPFI (heavy promising front-line fighter) and LPFI (light promising front-line fighter). The Sukhoi design bureau was engaged in the creation of the TPFI, and the development of the LPFI was transferred to Mikoyan. Work on the LPFI began in 1974. The result of it was the Product 9, which received the designation MiG-29A. The prototype first flew on October 6, 1977. The pre-production aircraft was first seen by US reconnaissance satellites in November 1977 and received the designation Ram-L (meaning the city of Ramenskoye - the place above which this aircraft was first discovered).

Due to delays associated with the loss of two prototypes in accidents, serial production was only started in 1982 on the basis of the Moscow Plant No. 30 Znamya Truda. In August 1983, the first serial MiG-29s began to arrive at the Kubinka airbase. The machine successfully passed state acceptance tests in 1984, after which it began to be delivered to front-line aviation units. The first regiments to be armed with the MiG-29 were 234 IAP (Kubinka) and 145 IAP (Ivano-Frankivsk). By the beginning of 1985, the first two air regiments (145 and 234 IAP) on the MiG-29 had reached operational readiness. After the delivery of the first machines, the distribution of tasks between the TPFI and LPFI became clear. The heavy Su-27, having a long range, had the unusual and dangerous task of deep air search and destruction of advanced NATO aircraft, the smaller MiG-29 replaced the MiG-23 in front-line aviation.

As planned by military theorists, MiG-29 aircraft are deployed near the front line and should provide local air superiority to the advancing units of the Soviet motorized army. At that time, Soviet military leaders put on the rapid advance of mechanized units, which meant the use of front-line aviation damaged or poorly prepared runways, and the MiG-29 was equipped for this with a durable chassis and protective air intake grilles. The MiG-29 also had to perform the task of escorting attack aircraft, protecting vulnerable aircraft from NATO fighters such as the F-15 and F-16. The MiG-29 front-line aviation was supposed to provide the Soviet ground units with a safe air umbrella, moving together with the units.

In NATO, the new fighter received the designation "Fulcrum-A". On the basis of the MiG-29 9-12, export modifications were created with weaker avionics and without the possibility of delivering a nuclear charge - the MiG-29A and MiG-29B models (the first for the Warsaw Pact Air Force, the second for other countries). In the West, the MiG-29 was first seen during the visit of Soviet aircraft to Finland in July 1986. In September 1988, the MiG-29 was shown for the first time at the Farnborough International Air Show. Western observers were impressed by the possibilities new car and its outstanding maneuverability, however, they also noted a serious drawback - the increased smoke of the RD-33 engine. At the same time, the engine works stably in maneuverable combat, while smokeless engines sometimes even stall in such conditions.

This type of fighter was actively exported to many countries. Many different modifications were created and released, including deck ones.

By the end of 1991, MAPE them. P. V. Dementieva produced about 1200 MiG-29 fighters. In addition, almost 200 MiG-29UB “sparks” were assembled by the plant in Nizhny Novgorod.

The production of MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB aircraft continues to be carried out in the town of Lukhovitsy near Moscow at the RAC MiG plant.

Design

The aircraft was made according to the integrated aerodynamic scheme, with a low wing, two-keel plumage and spaced engines. The glider is made mainly of aluminum alloys and steel, titanium and composite materials are also used. The sweep angle of the wing along the leading edge is 42 degrees, the wing has slotted flaps, ailerons and deflectable socks. The keels have a carbon fiber skin and an external “camber” of 6 degrees. The stabilizer is all-moving and differentially deflectable. The chassis is tricycle, with one-wheeled main and two-wheeled front struts. Ejection seat - K-36DM.

Engines type TRDDF RD-33. There is a gas turbine power unit GTDE-117 with a capacity of 66.2 kW. Adjustable air intakes during takeoff and landing are closed with protective panels and air is taken through five-section upper inlets. The fuel system consists of five fuselage and two wing tanks with a total capacity of 4,300 l (4,540 l). It is possible to suspend a 1500 l fuselage PTB and two 1150 l wing PTBs.

The machine is equipped with a system automatic control SAU-451 and system of restrictive signals SOS-3M. The weapon control system of the SUV-29 consists of the RLPK-29 radar sighting system (N0-19 "Sapphire-29"), the BTsVM Ts100 (or Ts101).

The optical-electronic sighting and navigation system OEprNK-29 (S-31) consists of the optoelectronic sighting system OEPS-29, which, in turn, consists of a laser optical-location station KOLS and a helmet-mounted target designation system "Shchel-3UM". The complex also includes: a navigation system SN-29, a weapon control system SUO-29, an on-board computer Ts-100, a display system on the windshield with a photocontrol device.

The equipment of the command radio control line (KRU) E502-20 "Turquoise". Radar exposure warning station - SPO-15LM "Bereza", radio-electronic interference station "Gardenia-1FU", false target release system PPI-26.

Modifications

The first serial modification of the MiG-29. Entered the army in 1983. Mass of combat load - 2000 kg.

Export modification 9-12, supplied to the countries of the Warsaw Pact, changes were made to the export model in RLPK-29. They were completed with R-27R1 and R-27T1 missiles, which had degraded characteristics relative to the basic modifications.

Export modification 9-12, supplied to countries outside the Warsaw Treaty Organization. Changes have been made to the weapon control system (SUV-29E) in the export model. They were armed with R-27R1 and R-27T1 missiles, which had degraded characteristics relative to the basic modifications.

Double combat training fighter. He began to enter the army in 1985. To accommodate the second cabin for the instructor, without a significant change in the design of the fuselage, the onboard radar had to be removed.

The second serial modification for the Soviet Air Force. He began to enter the army in 1986. Not exported. It differs from modification 9-12 by the presence of a built-in Gardenia electronic warfare station, passive interference emission units BVP-30-26M, increased internal fuel supply, and the possibility of hanging two underwing fuel tanks (in modification 9-12 there was only a ventral external fuel tank) . The mass of the combat load increased from 2000 to 3200 kg.

The third serial modification for the Soviet Air Force. The list of weapons includes R-77 (RVV-AE) missiles; the radar now has a mode of simultaneous attack of two air targets. The mass of the combat load has been increased to 4000 kg. The tests were completed in September 1991. P. V. Dementieva produced almost fifty such fighters, but only 16 of them were purchased by the Russian Air Force. In 1992, the Russian Ministry of Defense decided to stop purchasing MiG-29 fighters. Thus, 16 MiG-29S fighters produced in 1991 became the last aircraft of this type to enter service with domestic aviation. 30 MiG-29S fighters not purchased by the Russian Air Force were converted into export versions.

Multirole fighter. The list of weapons includes guided air-to-surface missiles. The number of pylons (hardpoints for weapons) has increased from 6 to 9; payload mass increased from 4000 to 4500 kg. In 1986-1991, 6 prototypes were assembled: No. 151, 152, 153, 154, 155 and 156. The MiG-29M successfully passed flight design tests and the first stage of state joint tests, and in 1991 the customer issued a preliminary conclusion to launch it into mass production. However, in 1992, purchases of the MiG-29 for the Russian Air Force were stopped. State tests of the MiG-29M had to be interrupted.

Ship fighter. The MiG-29K won the competition for the air wing of the Indian aircraft carrier Vikramaditya and the promising aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy. In 2004, India signed a contract for the development and supply of 16 carrier-based fighters (4 MiG-29KUB, 12 MiG-29K). The contract provided for an option for 30 MiG-29s with a delivery date of up to 2015. In 2010, a second contract was signed for the supply of the Indian Navy 29 MiG-29K. In 2012, a contract was signed to supply the Russian Navy with 20 MiG-29K and 4 MiG-29KUB by 2015. A total of 47 copies of the MiG-29K were built.

-MiG-29N and MiG-29KUB

Export versions of the MiG-29 and MiG-29UB for the Malaysian Air Force. Under an agreement dated June 7, 1994, Malaysia was to receive 18 MiG-29 fighters, including two MiG-29UB combat trainers. The first MiG-29s arrived in Malaysia in April 1995, and the last aircraft was delivered on June 5 of the same year.

Modernization of the MiG-29S. Added the ability to use high-precision air-to-surface weapons. Thus, the fighter became multi-purpose. The tests were successfully completed in 1996, and the customer signed a positive opinion, recommending that the combat aircraft be modified accordingly.

-MiG-29SMT (9-17)

An upgraded version of the MiG-29SM fighter. Created in 1999-2004. Delivered to a number of countries: Algeria, Vietnam, Yemen, Peru, Syria, Eritrea. 28 Algerian MiG-29SMT, after the failure of the contract, became part of the Russian Aerospace Forces. In total, about 76 fighters were produced and upgraded to the MiG-29SMT standard, another 16 MiG-29SMT / MiG-29UBM are being produced for the Russian Aerospace Forces under a 2014 contract

An experimental version with a deflectable thrust vector was converted from the MiG-29M fighter tail number 156 (9-15, 6th flight copy).

Double multi-role fighter of the 4++ generation with an increased flight range, an increased combat load and an expanded range of onboard weapons.

-MiG-35 (9-61)

Deep modernization of the MiG-29M.

-MiG-35D (9-67)

Double version of the MiG-35.

Modernization of the MiG-29 9-12A for the Slovak Air Force under the MiG-29S program, with a modified avionics.

Modernization of the MiG-29 for the Indian Air Force. Includes installation of an additional conformal dorsal fuel tank and equipment for aerial refueling, installation of RD-33M-3 engines, inertial navigation system of the French company Thales, Zhuk-M2E weapon control radar, OLS-UEM optical system, helmet-mounted targeting system of the Israeli company Elbit , updated radio navigation systems, as well as a new "glass cockpit" with multifunctional LCD displays. The list of weapons will be expanded with Kh-29T/L, Kh-31A/P and Kh-35 missiles. The first prototype flew on February 4, 2011.

Ukrainian modernization of the MiG-29 (9-13). The receiver of the satellite navigation system is installed, which is integrated into the avionics, due to which the accuracy of navigation and the range of use of automated means of instrumental landing are increased. The detection range of air targets has been increased by 20% (up to 100 km in the forward hemisphere and up to 45 km in the rear). Its advanced R-27ER1 and R-27ET1 missiles, produced by the Ukrainian State Company Artem, have a launch range of up to 95 km.

Belarusian modernization. Air-to-air refueling facilities, a satellite navigation station were installed and a radar station was finalized for the use of air-to-ground weapons. Of all the add-ons on a budget basis, it includes the maximum of components.

Romanian modernization. The fighter was upgraded by Aerostar Bacau (Romania), DASA (Germany) and Elbit Systems (Israel). The aircraft has improved combat performance and more advanced on-board systems that comply with NATO/ICAO standards. The aircraft made its first flight on May 5, 2000, but the modernization program was closed in 2001. Currently, the only MiG-29 Sniper is on display at the National Aviation Museum.

Operating countries

Is in service

Russia
-Aviation Navy Russian Federation - 2 MiG-29K and 2 MiG-29KUB, as of 2016
- Aerospace Forces of the Russian Federation - 90 MiG-29, 30 MiG-29UB, 28 MiG-29SMT and 6 MiG-29UBT, as of 2016
-6th Air Force and Air Defense Army of the Baltic Fleet - 28 MiG-29SMT and 6 MiG-29UBT, as of 2016
-4th Air Force and Air Defense Army - 63 MiG-29
Old modifications are gradually withdrawn from the VKS. There is a re-equipment with new models, for example, the MiG-29SMT and Su-30CM. The modernization of old-built fighters was deemed impractical due to physical wear and tear and corrosion.

Azerbaijan - 14 MiG-29s as of 2016.
-Algeria - 25 for 2010. The first aircraft were received in 1994. In March 2006, a contract was signed for the supply of 28 MiG-29SMT and 6 double MiG-29UBT. In the same year, deliveries of fighters began, but already in next year, after the delivery of 15 MiG-29s, the Algerian Air Force refused further deliveries and decided to return the fighters already delivered, citing the poor quality of the delivered vehicles. In February 2008, Rosoboronexport signed an agreement with Algeria on the return of fighters. Aircraft returned and in production (24 pieces) were purchased by the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation for the Russian Air Force.
- Bangladesh - 6 MiG-29 and 2 MiG-29UB, as of 2016. Were purchased in 1999.
-Belarus - 24 MiG-29S / UB, as of 2016. After the collapse of the USSR, about 100 aircraft remained. Some of them were sold to Algeria, Peru and Eritrea. By the 2000s, 40-50 aircraft were in service.

Bulgaria - 12 MiG-29A and 4 MiG-29UB for 2016 in 1990, 22 aircraft were received (18 fighters, 4 combat trainers). They are in service with one fighter regiment (in Graf Ignatievo). In March 2006, an agreement was signed with RAC MiG on the overhaul and modernization of 16 fighters. By the end of May 2009, the contract was fully completed.
-Vietnam - in 2010 received 4 MiG-29SMT
-Israel - 3 MiG-29s belonging to an unknown country were tested in 1997. As of 2009, two aircraft are operated at the Israeli Air Force Test Center.
-India - 43 MiG-29, 12 MiG-29UPG and 7 MiG-29UB, as of 2016. In 2008, a contract was signed with RAC MiG for the modernization of 53 MiG-29s to MiG-29UPG and 9 MiG-29UB to MiG-29UB-UPG. India became the first foreign country to receive the MiG-29. Since 1986, according to various estimates, about 70-80 aircraft have been delivered. In addition, in 2004, India ordered 16 carrier-based fighters: 12 single-seat MiG-29K and 4 double-seat MiG-29KUB. In 2008, a plan was approved to acquire another 29 fighters.
-Iran - 36 MiG-29A / U / UB for 2016

Yemen - 18 for 2010 in the 1990s, 4 MiG-29s were purchased from Moldova. In 2001, he signed a contract with RAC MiG for the supply of 14 MiG-29SE, transferred to Yemen in 2002-2003, and in 2006-2007 upgraded to the MiG-29SMT level. In 2003, 6 more MiG-29SMTs were purchased; these aircraft were delivered to Yemen in 2004-2005.
-Kazakhstan - 12 MiG-29 and 2 MiG-29UB as of 2016. After the collapse of the USSR, about 50-60 aircraft remained. In the mid-1990s, along with other aircraft, 21 MiG-29 fighters were transferred in exchange for 40 Tu-95 strategic bombers. Currently, the Kazakh Air Force is armed with 70 to 80 MiG-29s.
-DPRK - more than 18 MiG-29A / S / UB for 2016. Since 1988, 30 aircraft have been received (25 fighters, 5 combat trainers). They are in service with the 57th Fighter Wing (Onchon).
-Cuba - in 1989-1990, a small amount was received (according to various sources, 12 or 16 aircraft). They are in service with the 1st Squadron (San Antonio de Los Banos).
- Myanmar - 18 MiG-29, 6 MiG-29SE and 5 MiG-29UB, as of 2016. In 2001, a contract was signed for the supply of 12 MiG-29s, including 2 double vehicles. The used fighter jets cost Myanmar $130 million, and according to the terms of the contract, the flight time of each aircraft should not exceed 50 hours. In 2009, another 20 MiG-29s were sold in the amount of 400 million euros.
- Peru - 17 MiG-29S / SMT and 2 MiG-29UBV, as of August 2012. In 1996, 16 single-seat MiG-29S and 2 double-seat MiG-29UB were purchased from Belarus. In 1998, 3 new MiG-29SE were bought in Russia. Currently, 19 fighters are in operation (one was lost in an accident in 2001, another was decommissioned). In 2008, a contract worth $106.7 million was signed to upgrade 8 MiG-29s to the level of the MiG-29SMT.
- Poland - 26 MiG-29A and 6 MiG-29UB, as of 2016, 12 aircraft were received in 1989-1990 (9 fighters and 3 combat trainers). Later, 10 aircraft were received from the Czech Republic and another 22 from Germany.

Syria - 19 MiG-29s, as of 2010. In 2007, 24 MiG-29M / M2 were ordered, the contract is underway. According to other sources, a total of 62.3 modifications.
-Serbia - 3 MiG-29 and 1 MiG-29UB, as of 2016. After the collapse of Yugoslavia, all aircraft went to the Air Force of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (now Serbia). Most were lost in the 1999 war; by 2008, the 127th Fighter Squadron (Batainitsa) was armed with 5 upgraded aircraft. In 2013, negotiations began on the purchase of 6 MiG-29M / M2 on credit.

Slovakia - 10 MiG-29AS, 2 MiG-29UBS and 8 MiG-29A / UB, as of 2016, after the collapse of Czechoslovakia, 10 aircraft remained (9 fighters and 1 combat trainer). In 1994-96, 12 MiG-29S and 2 MiG-29UB were received in payment of the Russian debt. Until 2005, as a result of flight accidents, three single-seat MiG-29s were lost. In 2004-2007, twelve aircraft were upgraded by RAC MiG together with Collins (USA) and BAE Systems (UK) to NATO standards (10 MiG-29AS and 2 MiG-29UBS). They are in service with the 1st Fighter Aviation Regiment of the Slovak Air Force (Sliach).

Sudan - 12 MiG-29s, as of 2010, 12 aircraft have been delivered since 2003 (10 fighters and 2 combat trainers). Another 12 vehicles were purchased in 2008, while Rosoboronexport denied information about the deal, but then the fact of the purchase was confirmed by the Minister of Defense of Sudan.
-Turkmenistan - 24 MiG-29s, as of 2010. After the collapse of the USSR, according to various sources, from 22 to 25 aircraft remained.
-Uzbekistan - 12 MiG-29 / MiG-29UB in service + 18 in storage, as of 2016. After the collapse of the USSR, 36 aircraft remained.
-Ukraine - 90 MiG-29s, as of 2014. After the collapse of the USSR, Ukraine received about 240 aircraft.
-Sri Lanka - 4 MiG-29SM and 1 MiG-29UB delivered in 2008.
-Eritrea - 10 MiG-29s, as of 2010.
-Malaysia - 10 for 2015. A total of 18 aircraft were received (16 MiG-29N and 2 MiG-29UBN). During the operation, two cars were lost.
-Egypt. 46 ordered.

Was in service

USSR
- Hungary - since 1993, 28 aircraft have been received (22 fighters and 6 combat trainers, the transaction amount is 800 million US dollars) to pay off the debt of the USSR. Nowadays, the MiG-29s are in service with the 59th tactical air base (59. "Szentgyorgyi Dezso" Harcaszati ​​Repulobazis). 13 aircraft of this type in 2007-2008 passed overhaul under the control of the RAC "MiG". On December 21, 2010, the Hungarian government announced its intention to modernize and then put up for auction the last twelve MiG-29s that remained in service with the Hungarian Air Force. As of 2010, flights on the MIG-29 are no longer carried out. The last fighter went out of action in December 2010.
-Germany - since 1988, the GDR has acquired 24 aircraft (20 fighters and 4 combat trainers). After the reunification of Germany, these aircraft were in service with the 73rd squadron and were modernized. One aircraft was lost, the rest (except for one that remained in the museum) were decommissioned and sold to Poland in 2003-2004.

Iraq - according to various sources, approximately 40-50 aircraft have been acquired since 1987 (most likely 42 fighters and 6 combat trainers). A significant part was lost in the 1991 war (shot down, destroyed on the ground or flown to Iran), some aircraft remained in service until the American occupation in 2003.
-Romania - in 1989-1994 18 MiG-29 (9-12A) and 4 MiG-29UB (9-51) were received from the USSR/Russia. In 1992, 1 MiG-29 (9-13) was received from Moldova. 2 MiG-29s (9-12A) and 1 MiG-29UB (9-51) crashed. The aircraft were in service from December 1989 to October 2003.
- Czechoslovakia - in 1989, 20 aircraft were received (18 fighters and 2 combat trainers). After the collapse of the country, in 1992, the planes were divided equally between the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
- Czech Republic - after the collapse of Czechoslovakia, 10 aircraft remained (9 fighters and 1 combat training). In March 1994, the only spark of the Czech Air Force was destroyed as a result of a fire, after which there was nothing to train new MiG-29 pilots. In 1995, the 9 remaining fighters were transferred to Poland in exchange for W-3 Sokol helicopters.
- Moldova - out of 36 fighters of the Black Sea Fleet Aviation Regiment located in Moldova, one was sold to Romania, 4 to Yemen and 21 MiG-29s were purchased by the United States in 1997 for $ 40 million.
- Yugoslavia - in 1987, 16 aircraft were received (14 fighters and 2 combat trainers).

performance characteristics

Specifications

Crew: 1 or 2 people
- Length: 17.32m
- Wingspan: 11.36 m
- Height: 4.73 m
- Wing area: 38.06 m2
- Wing sweep angle: 42 deg.
-Weight:
- empty: 10900 kg
- normal takeoff weight: 15180 kg
-maximum takeoff weight: 18480 kg

Engine

Engine type: turbojet bypass with afterburner (as well as thrust vector control on the MiG-29OVT and MiG-35)
-Model: "RD-33"
-Thrust:
- maximum: 2 x 5040 kgf
- afterburner: 2 x 8300 kgf
- Engine weight: 1055 kg
-Deflectable thrust vector: for MiG-29OVT and MiG-35 with RD-133 engines
- Thrust vector deflection angles: +...-15 deg. in any direction
- Thrust vector deflection speed: 60 deg/s
- Ability to start the engine in flight
- Engine dismantling time by 5 mechanics - 1 hour

radar

Escorting 10 air targets and shelling the most dangerous
- The minimum speed difference between the fighter and the target is 150 km / h
-Speed ​​of attacked target 230-2500 km/h
- Height of attacked target 30-23000 m
- Target detection range with EPR 3 m2 in PPS at an altitude of more than 3000m - 50-70 km
- Helicopter detection range (speed more than 180 km/h) in ZPS 23 km, PPS - 17 km
-according to 2012 - radar N010 "Zhuk" of various versions. 10-20 targets simultaneously at a distance of up to 80 kilometers, firing 1-2

Flight characteristics

Max speed:
- near the ground: 1500 km / h (M = 1.26)
- at an altitude: 2450 km / h (M = 2.3)
-Cruising speed: 850 km/h (M=0.8)
-Practical range:
-with 100% fuel: 1430 km
- with 2 PTB: 2100 km
- Flight duration: up to 2.5 hours
- Practical ceiling: 18000 m
- Thrust-to-weight ratio:
- with normal takeoff weight: 1.09 kgf / kg
- with a maximum take-off weight: 0.92 kgf / kg
- Wing load:
-at normal takeoff weight: 399 kg/m2
- at maximum takeoff weight: 476 kg / m2
-Maximum operating overload: +9 G

Armament

Cannon: 30 mm GSH-30-1 aircraft gun, 150 rounds
- Combat load: 2180 kg
- Armament hardpoints: 7
-Suspended armament:
-R-60M
-R-27R1
-R-73
-R-77
-BKO "Talisman"
-B-8M1
-S-24B
-FAB-500M62
-OFAB-250-270
-KMGU-2
-ZB-5000

By the end of 1991, about 1,200 single-seat MiG-29 fighters left the workshops of the Dementiev MAPO, the plant in Nizhny Novgorod assembled about 200 MiG-29UB twins. In accordance with the plan for the development of the Soviet aircraft industry, it was supposed to transfer the MAPO to the production of MiG-29M aircraft by this time: in parallel with the MiG-29, 60 aircraft of this variant were to be built before 1990, and over the next ten years their number was to be increased to 300 -400 (at the same time in 1986-1995 they expected to produce 27 MiG-29K - shipborne fighters).

But the refinement of the MiG-29M was delayed, and by the beginning of the 1990s, only flight design tests were completed, as well as part of the tests of the first stage of the CSI. At the same time, back in 1986, an event occurred that required urgent measures to be taken to modernize some Soviet fighters, including the MiG-29. In Moscow, an employee of one of the defense enterprises Tolkachev. Recruited by Western intelligence agencies, Tolkachev spent several years passing on classified information on the equipment and weapons systems of the latest Soviet combat aircraft.

During the investigation into the espionage case, it was possible to find out what information could "leak" to the West. In accordance with this, an action plan was developed to compensate for the damage caused to the country's defense capability. In particular, MIG was instructed to modify the MiG-31 interceptor and the MiG-29 fighter with improved weapon control systems. It was also assumed that previously released combat vehicles would be modified according to their model (in the early 1980s, most of the MiG-25P was upgraded to the MiG-25PDS variant at aircraft repair plants, and several hundred MiG-23ML were upgraded to the MiG-23MLD) . Thus, the MiG-29S and MiG-31B aircraft appeared.

The improved H-019M Topaz radar of the MiG-29S aircraft is capable of simultaneously tracking two targets and firing at them with R-77 missiles (AA-12 "Adder", unofficially called "AMRAAMski" in the West).

Since, in terms of design and technology, the MiG-29M, recently released for testing, differed from the serial fighter quite strongly, and the new weapon control system used on it required a long refinement, it was decided to unify the new version of the "twenty-ninth" with the modification "9- 13", mastered in production. It was planned to introduce new air-to-air guided missiles, originally intended for the MiG-29M, into the armament of the new fighter. This primarily concerned medium-range guided missiles RVV-AE with an active radar homing head, as well as R-27T with a thermal homing head, R-27TE and R-27RE with an increased launch range.

SUV-29S, fighter weapon control system, was to be built on the basis of the RLPK-29M (radar sighting system) developed at NIIR (Fazotron Research and Production Association) under the leadership of Yu.P. Kirpichev. (and then Frantseva V.V.). The composition of the radar sighting system included the N019M radar station, the new Ts101M computer, and the OEPrNK-29-1 optoelectronic sighting and navigation system. From the previous RLPK-29, the improved RLPK-29M was distinguished by increased noise immunity, an in-depth built-in control system, a new software. This upgrade made it possible to simultaneously attack 2 targets with 2 missiles with TGS or ARGS.

In OEPrNK-29-1, a combined control mode was implemented for firing at air targets from a cannon. Both SUV-29S complexes could also work in a training mode. The combat load of the MIG was to increase to 4000 kg (on four multi-lock underwing beam holders, eight 500-kilogram bombs were provided for suspension), while the maximum take-off weight of the fighter reached almost 20 tons.

In addition, the MiG-29S fighter was supposed to be equipped with a modified automatic control system, which provided improved stability characteristics, as well as controllability at high angles of attack - the maximum angle was increased to 28 degrees.

The main task of the MiG-29C is the air defense of small areas, military groups and important objects. In this case, the tactics of using against air targets was assumed to be the following:

Ground radar stations, located 10-15 km from the line of contact (front line) guarantee radar control at a distance of almost 250 km behind enemy aircraft at altitudes of more than 10 thousand meters and 20-40 kilometers behind low-flying targets. The MiG-29 takes off from the airfield in standby mode, located from the front line ~ 100 km for a maximum of 8 minutes, it is directed to the target using a hidden transfer from the command post of dates automatically. Aerial targets flying at altitudes of 20-23 thousand meters at speeds up to 2 thousand km / h and at altitudes of 10-20 thousand meters at speeds up to 2.5 thousand km / h can be destroyed by a fighter even before they approach to the front line.

With an economical climb mode, the MiG-29 is capable of destroying high-speed stratospheric air targets at a distance of 240-230 km; and when flying with full afterburner mode - 170-180 km from the airfield. Fighter at medium altitudes point to the height of the target. To intercept air targets flying at altitudes of 20-23 thousand meters, it is directed to a height of 16-17 thousand meters. In the future, the fighter goes to a height of 3.5-4 thousand meters, which ensures the stable operation of the airborne radar, and it is also possible to perform the necessary vertical maneuver. The MiG is aimed at the forward hemisphere of the air target. If the first attack fails, the MiG maneuvers to take a position for a second attack.

In 1988-1989 at the MMZ them. Mikoyan, for testing the weapons control system, two serial MiGs of the 9-13 type were converted. The first of them (No. 405, onboard No. 05) flew into the air on January 20, 1989, the second - (No. 404, onboard No. 04) - on June 30, 1989. On these aircraft, the functioning of the SUV-29S as a whole and the modernized RLPK-29M, the use of RVV-AE missiles were practiced. For example, on the 405th, for the first time, a successful simultaneous launch of 2 missiles at 2 air targets was carried out. During testing, it was proved that the new weapons control system provides for sequential or simultaneous launch of missiles at targets that are spaced in azimuth at an angle of more than 8 degrees or located at a distance of more than 10 thousand meters at one azimuth.

Upon entering the zone of permitted launches for both targets and the appearance of a single indication of the corresponding symbols on the system screen, the launch could be carried out in automatic or manual mode. If the targets entered the zone of permitted launches one after another, sequentially, then the missiles were launched accordingly. In September 1991, tests of both machines were completed. In 1994, the MiG-29S was put into service. By this time, MAPE them. Dementieva produced almost 50 such fighters, but only 16 of them were purchased by the Russian Air Force.

The first MiG-29S entered the fighter aviation regiment in Shaikovka, several machines of this type were also transferred to the GLITs in Akhtubinsk and the pulp and paper industry in Lipetsk. Equipping the fighter with new medium-range missiles, mainly RVV-AE, with active radar homing heads, increased its effectiveness in air combat by 2.5-3 times compared to the serial "twenty-ninths". According to the calculations of the specialists of the design bureau, in air combat, the MiG-29S at medium distances outperforms the Rafale and F-16C fighters by 10 percent, and the JAS39 Gripen and Mirage 2000-5 by 25 percent.

Despite the increased fuel capacity of the MiG-29S family aircraft, the installation of a filling rod is proposed as a refinement option. The picture shows a MiG-29S following an Il-78M tanker aircraft during tests at the GLITS in Akhtubinsk.

Nevertheless, in 1992, the Russian Ministry of Defense decided to stop purchasing the MiG-29- was found to be inappropriate under the conditions economic crisis simultaneously build two types of front-line fighters. As noted, in the first half of the 1970s, the concept of the country's air force fighter aviation fleet was based on the principle of building on the basis of two types: MiG-29 - 70% and Su-27 - 30%. It was also assumed that the cost ratio of these types of fighters would be 1:1.9. But in practice, it was not possible to make the MiG so cheap: its cost was only 40-50 percent less than the Su-27 -24 million dollars).

Regarding the quantitative ratio of these types of aircraft in the structure of the Air Force, then, according to data published in the press, it was somewhat exceeded in favor of the MiGs: in the European part of the USSR, by the end of 1990, at the time of signing the CFE Treaty, 648 MiG-29 and 138 Su -27 (82% and 18%, respectively), not counting the fighter aircraft of the Air Defense Forces and the Navy. After the collapse of the USSR, the Russian Air Force transferred about 400 MiG-29s (80%) and just over 100 Su-27s (20%).

Thus, 16 MiG-29S fighters produced at MAPO in 1991 were the last aircraft of this type to enter service. Su-27 "lasted" a little longer, however, they were built only for the air defense forces. Further development events are known. At the beginning of 1997, at a press conference held at the Ministry of Defense of Russia and dedicated to the financing of the army, in particular, statistics were given on the purchase of new combat aircraft: the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation purchased 7 aircraft in 1994, 1 in 1995, and 1 in 1996 - not a single fighter.

Moscow Aviation Production Association, which specialized since the late 1960s exclusively in the production of military equipment, since 1992 it has been left without a state order. The design bureau, by this time transformed into the MIG Aviation Scientific and Industrial Complex, also received very meager appropriations. The only way out in this situation could be the export of MiGs, especially since these aircraft have always been popular in India, the Middle East and some former "brotherly" republics of Eastern Europe: by 1991, almost 300 MiG-29s had already been sold to 12 foreign states.

Therefore, 30 MiG-29S fighters not purchased by the Russian Air Force were converted into the export version of the MiG-29SE. They are currently in storage at the MAPO warehouse in Lukhovitsy. By the way, there are also several dozen new MiG-29s of the 9-12 type, produced before 1992, here. The Design Bureau has prepared documentation for refining such fighters into the MiG-29SD variant, similar in terms of the weapons control system, the range of weapons used and the MiG-29SE self-propelled guns (the MiG-29SD differs from the MiG-29SE in the absence of built-in electronic warfare equipment, therefore, it has a lower cost; internal fuel supply this aircraft is slightly smaller, but the MiG-29SD fuel system provides suspension for underwing external fuel tanks).

It is the MiG-29SD that is the subject of negotiations under the well-known "Malaysian" agreement, which provides for a phased modernization of the delivered fighters, in particular, their equipping with an in-flight refueling system.

Both export vehicles are equipped with RLPK-29ME "Topaz" (radar sighting system) and OEPrNK-29-1E (optical-electronic sighting and navigation system). In addition to the GSh-301 cannon (ammunition load of 150 rounds), the range of armament of these fighters includes short-range missiles - up to 6 R-73E; medium-range missiles - up to 6 RVV-AE, two R-27T1 or R-27R1; extended range missiles - two R-27RE1 or R-27TE1. In addition, the aircraft are armed with unguided rockets, air bombs and incendiary tanks with a total weight of up to 4 tons, placed on 6 underwing hardpoints.

In accordance with the requirements of the customer, the composition of aircraft equipment may change (it is also possible to use foreign equipment). So, for example, the Malaysian Air Force fighters are equipped with the TACAN AN / APN-118 radio system, VOR / ILS-71 instrumental landing equipment, the TNL-1000 GPS receiver, the COSSOR state identification system transponder, the CO-69M aircraft transponder, which works in conjunction with Western navigation systems, an additional radio station R-800L1 decimeter and meter bands with a frequency of 243 MHz.

The experimental MiG-29SE was first publicly demonstrated at the LII in Zhukovsky. According to some reports, Malaysia is interested in this aircraft.

One of the conditions put forward by Malaysia when signing the contract on 06/07/1994 for the supply of MiG-29 fighters was their equipping with an in-flight refueling system. Prior to this, not a single serial MiG-29 had such a system (the refueling equipment was planned to be used only on the MiG-29K, so compartments for accommodating pipelines and a fuel receiver rod were immediately provided in their design).

It was not possible to install a retractable filling bar in front of the cockpit on the MiG-29, as is customary on domestic aircraft (MiG-31B, MiG-29K, Su-30, Su-27K, Su-24M, etc.), without a serious redesign of the design was not possible. In this regard, the specialists of MAPO "MIG" developed a compromise solution, the system was made removable with the placement of a part of the equipment (rod, rod attachment points and a section of pipelines) in a fairing protruding into the flow at the junction of the aircraft body in the area of ​​the cockpit and the left wing influx.

The mass of the retractable fuel receiver was 75 kilograms, and the remaining elements of the system - up to 30 kilograms. The tip of the rod was unified to receive fuel from the Il-78 tanker aircraft, and from foreign tankers KS-130, KS-10, etc. It is possible to refuel both internal and external fighter tanks, the maximum fuel transfer rate is 900 liters per minute. The fuel receiver, the support beam that supports it in the extended position, and other protruding parts of the system can be dismantled from the aircraft within an hour and, if necessary, reinstalled.

The design of the refueling system makes it possible to install it on any modification of the MiG-29 with a minimum of modifications to the aircraft. To facilitate the refueling process, the fighter's self-propelled guns and navigation equipment were also somewhat modified. Search and guaranteed rendezvous with a tanker aircraft are provided by an onboard short-range radio navigation system. The pilot, after releasing the fuel receiver, switches the ACS to the “stabilization during refueling” mode, and it, fending off external disturbances, keeps the vehicle at the required distance from the tanker.

Developed during the Cold War, the MiG-29 was an important milestone in the history of the Soviet aircraft industry, combining excellent maneuverability with the ability to use a wide range of weapons. Having undergone a series of upgrades in recent years, this aircraft was never able to realize its full potential, but this was not the result of technical, but of completely different reasons.

In 1995, for testing new system refueling converted the serial MiG-29 No. 4808, onboard No. 357. On November 16, 1995, R.P. performed the first refueling from the Il-78 tanker. Taskaev, chief pilot of MAPO "MIG". M.R. also took part in the tests of the system. Alykov, test pilot of the Design Bureau, as well as A.A. Goncharov and V.D. Shushunov, military pilots. According to the testers, the refueling system implemented on the MiG-29 makes this difficult flight stage accessible even for pilots with average qualifications, and the equipment that ensures the search for a tanker and docking is much better than previously used on Russian-made military aircraft.

Tests showed that the installation of the fuel receiver in the outer fairing did not have a significant impact on the flight characteristics, stability and controllability of the MiG-29. The ferry flight range with three external fuel tanks with one refueling increased from 2900 to 5200 kilometers. Refueling was carried out at an altitude of up to 8 km at speeds of 400-600 km/h. A number of refuelings were also made at speeds of 350-500 km / h to simulate the reception of fuel from the KS-130 (the Malaysian Air Force has 6 C-130 turboprop transport aircraft that can be converted into tankers). In January 1996, flights under the test program were completed and the refueling system was recommended for use on the MiG-29 of various modifications.

Flight performance of the MiG-29S:
Length - 17.32 m;
Height - 4.73 m;
Wingspan - 11.36 m;
Wing area - 38.06 m 2;
Empty aircraft weight - 11200 kg;
Normal takeoff weight - 15600 kg;
Maximum takeoff weight - 19700 kg;
Internal fuel - 4540 kg;
Fuel in hanging tanks - 3800 kg;
Engine type - 2 turbofan engines RD-33;
Thrust - 2x8300 kgf;
Maximum speed at altitude - 2450 km / h;
The maximum speed near the ground is 1500 km / h;
Practical range at low altitude - 710 km;
Practical range at high altitude - 1500 km;
Practical range with hanging tanks - 2100 km;
Maximum rate of climb - 19800 m / min;
Practical ceiling - 18000 m;
Crew - 1 person;
Armament:
- one built-in gun GSh-301 caliber 30 mm;
- combat load - 4000 kg;
Six underwing nodes housed:
— from 2 to 4 URVV R-27R/6 RVV-AE/up to 6 R-60M or R-73;
- 500- or 250-kg bombs, KMGU container;
- in blocks B-8M1 and S-24B NAR 80 S-8.

The MiG-29 fighter is and remains among the most widespread modern combat aircraft in the world. The MiG-29 has a long history. Over the years of production, 1,600 MiG-29s were produced. To date, the Russian Air Force operates approximately 270 fighters, the Russian Navy has an additional 40 fighters. The MiG-29 fighter was in service with both our former allies and NATO countries. The MiG-29 fighter sold quite well abroad.

The MiG-29 fighter is undoubtedly one of the most successful fighters of the Soviet era. The uniqueness of the aircraft lies in the fact that it demonstrated unique technical characteristics. He could fly at high angles of attack. In order to abruptly go up or hit a rocket, the pilot could pull the control levers beyond the limits of the limiters, which was not available to Western counterparts of the fighter. The history of the birth and adoption of the aircraft into service was long.

The history of the creation of the MiG-29

The first developments and drawings for the creation of a light front-line fighter newest generation started in the late 1960s. The USSR in 1969 learned about the US Air Force F-X program. The leadership of the USSR realized that the newest American aircraft was significantly superior to the existing Soviet fighters. The MiG-21, which was then in service, was a modern fighter, but it was inferior in combat in terms of armament, flight range and improvement opportunities. The MiG-23 was fast enough, but not agile and maneuverable enough in close air combat. A high-tech and balanced fighter with excellent agility in combat was required.

In 1969, a competition was announced for the development and creation of a similar PFI aircraft. The future aircraft received the following performance requirements:

• large range;
• fast takeoff, the possibility of using short runways;
• excellent agility;
• reliable and unpretentious engine;
• heavy weapons;
• speed above 2M.

The aerodynamic design of a new promising front-line fighter was carried out by TsAGI together with the Sukhoi Design Bureau. The Yakovlev Design Bureau and the Sukhoi Design Bureau also took part in the competition, including Gurevich and Mikoyan showing their drawings. Design Bureau "MiG" was recognized as the winner.

However, in 1971 it became clear that the PFI aircraft was too expensive for the needs of the Air Force. Therefore, the project was divided into TPFI and LPFI. Drawings for the heavy aircraft began to be developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau, and Mikoyan was responsible for the development of the light aircraft. Work on the LPFI began in 1974. The result of the work was Product 9, which received the designation MiG-29A. In 1977 he made his first flight.

Serial production due to delays caused by the loss of two prototypes was deployed only in 1982 at plant No. 30 Znamya Truda, Moscow. In August 1983, serial MiG-29Bs began to be delivered to the Kubinka airbase for service. The aircraft successfully passed the state acceptance in 1984, then it began to be put into service in front-line aviation. By 1985, two air regiments with MiG-29 aircraft were fully staffed.

The MiG-29 was presented at the Farnborough Air Show in 1988, where it amazed Western observers. The RD-33 engine made it possible to demonstrate fast takeoff, outstanding mobility and high performance characteristics, but had increased smoke. The MiG-29 was actively exported and put into service in many countries. Subsequently, many different modifications of the fighter were developed and produced, including deck ones. MAPO them. P. V. Dementiev, approximately 1200 MiG-29 fighters were produced. In addition, almost 200 MiG-29UBs were produced by the plant in Nizhny Novgorod. Today, the modernization of the MiG 29 and the production of the MiG-29KUB and MiG-29K are carried out at the MiG RAC in Lukhovitsy near Moscow.

Fighter specifications

• Wingspan - 11.36 m.
• The length of the aircraft, together with the PVD boom, is 17.32 m.
• The height of the aircraft is 4.73 m.
• The wing area is 38.06 m2.
• The weight of the empty aircraft is 10900 kg.
• The normal takeoff weight of the aircraft is 15300 kg.
• The maximum takeoff weight of the aircraft is 18100 kg.
• Internal fuel - 4300 l.
• PTB fuel - 1500 l.
• Engine - 2xTRDDF RD-33.
• Maximum thrust - 2x5040 kgf.
• Forced thrust - 2x8300 kgf.
• The maximum speed at altitude is 2450 km/h.
• The maximum ground speed is 1500 km/h.
• The practical range at high altitude is 1430 km.
• The practical range at low altitude is 710 km.
• The practical range with PTB is 2100 km.
• The maximum rate of climb is 19800 m/min.
• The practical ceiling is 18000 m.
• The maximum operational overload is 9 g.
• Crew - 1 person.

Armament:

• 30 mm gun GSh-301.
• combat load on six underwing nodes - 2000 kg.
• two R-27R missiles, as well as 6 R-60M or R-73 missiles.
• bombs 500 or 250 kg, KMGU.
• NAR 80 S-8, installed in blocks S-24B and B-8M1.

Maneuver Champion

The MiG-29 is distinguished by its unique flight performance characteristics, which predetermines:

• beautifully designed airframe;
• powerful engine RD-33;
• large wing area and excellent aerodynamics.

As a result, the fighter shows the following unique technical characteristics:

• fast takeoff;
• high speed and maneuverability, both in horizontal and vertical planes;
• passing turns with small radii;
• performing unique aerobatics. The MiG-29 in particular performs a tail stall;
• high rate of climb equal to 330 m/s.

As a result, in air combat, the MiG-29 showed excellent technical characteristics and was out of competition. Another advantage of this machine is the relative unpretentiousness in maintenance, as well as the ability to take off from short unprepared lanes.

Aircraft design features

1. The MiG-29 is made with spaced engines according to the integrated aerodynamic scheme, two-keel plumage and a low-lying wing. The airframe is mainly made of steel and aluminum alloys, composite materials and titanium are also used.
2. The sweep angle of the wing is 42 degrees. along the leading edge, on the wing there are deflectable socks, ailerons and slotted flaps. The keels have an external “camber” of 6 degrees and a carbon fiber skin. The stabilizer is differentially deflected and all-moving. Tricycle chassis with two-wheeled front and one-wheeled main struts.
3. The aircraft uses the TRDDF RD-33 engine. There is a gas turbine power unit GTDE-117 with a capacity of 66.2 kW. During takeoff and landing, the adjustable air intakes are closed with protective panels, as a result, air is taken in through five-section upper inlets. The fuel system includes two wing and five fuselage tanks with a total capacity of 4300 liters. It is possible to hang two wing PTBs and a fuselage PTB (1150 l + 1500 l).
4. The fighter is equipped with SAU-451, an automatic control system, as well as SOS-3M, a system of restrictive signals. The armament is controlled by the SUV-29 system, which includes the BTsVM Ts100 radar sighting system and RLPK-29 (N0-19 "Sapphire-29").
5. The cockpit is equipped with the OEprNK-29 complex, which includes the OEPS-29, the on-board computer control system Ts-100, the SUO-29, and the navigation system SN-29. The display system with a photocontrol device is located on the windshield. The system also includes E502-20 Turquoise KRU equipment, the PPI-26 decoy ejection system, Gardenia-1FU, an electronic interference station, SPO-15LM Beryoza.
6. The cockpit is equipped with a K-36DM ejection seat. An ejection seat makes it possible to leave the car in a critical situation, even at zero altitude. Referred to by pilots as "Rita", the voice indication system warns of enemy threats and dangerous flight conditions by issuing speech messages in a female voice such as "enemy behind" or "approach too low".

MiG-29 modifications

On the basis of the MiG-29, the following modifications were designed and created:

• MiG-29UB, two-seat combat training aircraft;
• MiG-29 with active jamming equipment and increased fuel capacity;
• MiG-29S with new RVV-AE missiles and an upgraded control system;
• MiG-29SE- modification of the MiG-29S for export;
• MiG-29M- it is distinguished by a wide range of means of defeating ground and air targets, a weapon control system, an increased flight range and a number of design differences;
• MiG-29K, a carrier-based fighter that has folding wings for a more compact placement of a fighter on a ship, a reinforced landing gear and a landing hook;
• MiG-29KUB- training and combat carrier-based fighter and others;
• MiG-29AS- modernization of the aircraft for the Slovak Air Force, which includes a modified avionics, as well as without a refueling system;
• MiG-29MU1- Ukrainian modernization of the fighter. A satellite navigation system is installed in the avionics;
• MiG-29BM, Belarusian modernization. Additionally, a satellite navigation station, refueling facilities were installed, a radar station was finalized for the use of air-to-ground weapons;
• MiG-29 Sniper, modernization for the Romanian army. Modernization according to NATO/ICAO standards was carried out by DASA (Germany), Aerostar Bacău (Romania), Elbit Systems (Israel).

Approximately 800 MiG-29 fighters of various modifications were exported to 30 countries of the world. In total, more than 1,600 fighters were built.

Video: MiG-29

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Multipurpose Russian fighter the fourth generation, which has a number of unsurpassed technical characteristics and is now in the service of the Aerospace Forces. The Luftwaffe pilot called the MiG-29 the dream of any pilot.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Russian Aircraft Corporation MIG
• Country of origin: Russia
• Model: MiG-29
• Crew: 1 person
• Passenger capacity: 1 person
• Power plant: 2 Sarkisov RD-33 turbofan engines with thrust on
• afterburner 81 kN
• Aircraft length: 17.3 m
• Wingspan: 11.3 m
• Aircraft height: 4.7 m
• Wing area: 35.2 m2
• Maximum takeoff weight: 18480 kg
• Empty weight: 10900 kg
• Maximum speed: 2465 km/h
• Cruise speed: 850 km/h
• Rate of climb: 19800 m/min
• Ceiling height: 18500 m
• Maximum flight range: 2495 km (with fuel in internal tanks and on an external sling)

Story

Attempts to design a light front-line fighter of a new generation were made back in the late 60s of the last century. The existing MiG-21 and MiG-23 were inferior to their American and European counterparts in many respects. The Air Force needed a high-tech, well-balanced fighter with good maneuverability, so in 1969 a competition was announced in the USSR to develop such an aircraft. The design bureaus of Sukhoi, Yakovlev, as well as Mikoyan and Gurevich took part in it. Design Bureau MiG was declared the winner. The first flight of the new machine was made in October 1977, and in August 1983 the first serial MiG-29s began to arrive at the Kubinka airbase.

The uniqueness of the MiG-29 aircraft

The MiG-29 was and remains one of the most widespread combat aircraft in the world. Over the years of his serial production 1600 pieces were made. He was in service not only with our former allies, but also in NATO countries. And that says a lot. The supersonic and extremely maneuverable MiG-29 has a unique integrated design layout that does not divide (as was customary before) the aircraft into a fuselage and wings. The MiG airframe consists of smooth transitions with classic side walls only in the bow.

In addition, the MiG-29 features:

• highly located wing with a sweep angle of 45 degrees;
• two super-powerful turbofan engines with afterburners;
• two-keel vertical tail;
• controlled chassis;
• ejection seats K-36;
• general high aerodynamic characteristics;
• long flight range;
• six underwing hardpoints to accommodate bombs, guided and unguided rockets;
• reliable mechanical control circuit.

Possibilities for peaceful use

In the combat training version of the MiG-29, the instructor's cockpit was placed behind the trainee's cockpit and equipped with a full set of controls, an indication system and the same K-36DM ejection seat. A large canopy common to both cabins offers a stunning view, which makes it extremely effective in air combat and also for the flight of brave tourists. A little preparation and pre-flight briefing in our flying club make it possible to:

• make a supersonic flight into the stratosphere with a climb of up to 18-19 km;
• experience overloads from 2 to 9 Gs when performing aerobatics at supersonic speed;
• perform a roll, turn, spin, vertical, etc. in flight at relatively low altitudes and speeds on a MiG-29 military fighter.