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[edit | edit source]
- Mikoyan MiG-35: Single seat variant
- Mikoyan MiG-35D: Two seat variant
- Mikoyan MiG-35S: Single seat serial production version
- Mikoyan MiG-35UB: Two sea serial production version
Users[edit | edit source]
- Egypt
- Egyptian Air Force x 46
- India
- Indian Air Force x 165
- Iraq
- Iraqi Air Force x 72
- Russia
- Russian Air Force x 170
- Venezuela
