Mikoyan MiG-35

The Mikoyan MiG-35 (Russian: Микоян МиГ-35, NATO reporting name: Fulcrum-F) is a further development of the MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB technology. It is classified as a 4++ generation jet fighter by Mikoyan. The first prototype was a modification of the aircraft that previously served as MiG-29M2 model demonstrator. 10 prototypes have been built so far and are currently subject to extensive field trials. The MiG-35 is now classed as a medium-weight aircraft because its maximum take-off weight has increased by 30 percent, exceeding its previous criteria of classification.

MiG Corporation first officially presented the MiG-35 internationally during the Aero India 2007 air show. The MiG-35 was officially unveiled when the Russian Minister of Defence, Sergey Ivanov, visited Lukhovitsky Machine Building Plant "MAPO-MIG". The single seat version is designated MiG-35 and the two-seat version is MiG-35D. The fighter has vastly improved avionics and weapon systems, notably the new AESA radar and the uniquely designed Optical Locator System (OLS), relieves the aircraft from relying on ground-controlled interception (GCI) systems and enables it to conduct independent multi-role missions.

It is intended for use in the Russian and Indian air forces. In Septmember 2009, India selected the Mikoyan MiG-35 as the winner of the MRCA (Multi-Role Combat Aircraft) Program.

Variants

 * Mikoyan MiG-35: Single seat variant
 * Mikoyan MiG-35D: Two seat variant

Users

 * Egypt
 * Egyptian Air Force x 46
 * India
 * Indian Air Force x 165
 * Russia
 * Russian Air Force x 170

Related Development

 * Mikoyan MiG-29
 * Mikoyan MiG-29K
 * Mikoyan MiG-29M

Comparable Aircraft

 * Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
 * Chengdu J-10 Vigorous Dragon
 * Dassault Rafale
 * Eurofighter Typhoon
 * General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
 * Saab JAS 39 Gripen