The Mikoyan MiG-29 (NATO reporting name: Fulcrum) is a twin-engine jet fighter aircraft
originally designed in the Soviet Union. Developed by the Mikoyan design bureau in the
1970s as an air superiority fighter, it has evolved into a versatile multirole combat aircraft.
Along with the larger Sukhoi Su-27, the MiG-29 was intended to counter new American
fighters like the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle and the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting
Falcon.
Here's a breakdown of key aspects of the MiG-29:
Key Features:
* Air Superiority Focus: Initially designed to gain and maintain air control.
* Multirole Capability: Many later variants can perform ground attack and other roles.
* High Maneuverability: Known for its agility, especially at close ranges. Its design,
including blended leading-edge root extensions (LERXs) and the lift generated by the
space between its engines, contributes to this.
* Twin Engines: Powered by two Klimov RD-33 turbofan engines (various versions with
different thrust ratings).
* Helmet-Mounted Sighting System (HMS): Allows pilots to aim missiles at targets
simply by looking at them, providing a significant advantage in close-quarters combat.
* Radar and Sensors: Equipped with radar (various models depending on the variant) for
target detection and tracking, as well as infrared search and track (IRST) systems.
* Armament: Can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, rockets, bombs,
and a 30mm cannon.
History and Development:
* The MiG-29 program started in the early 1970s in response to the new generation of
US fighters.
* The first prototype flew on October 6, 1977.
* It entered service with the Soviet Air Forces in 1983.
* The MiG-29 was widely exported and has served in the air forces of numerous
countries.
Significant Variants:
The MiG-29 has seen numerous upgrades and variants over its service life, including:
* MiG-29 (Fulcrum-A): The initial production version. Export versions with downgraded
avionics were designated MiG-29B (9-12A for Warsaw Pact nations and 9-12B for others).
* MiG-29S (Fulcrum-C): An upgraded version with increased fuel capacity (due to a
dorsal "hump"), improved avionics, and the ability to carry a wider range of weapons.
* MiG-29M/MiG-33 (Fulcrum-E): An advanced multirole variant with a redesigned
airframe, fly-by-wire controls, improved engines, and enhanced radar.
* MiG-29K: A navalized carrier-based multirole fighter.
* MiG-29UB: A two-seat trainer version.
* MiG-29SMT: A modernization package for older MiG-29s, featuring improved avionics,
increased fuel capacity, and enhanced weapons capabilities.
* MiG-35: A further development of the MiG-29M/K, considered a 4++ generation fighter
with advanced avionics, radar (including AESA options), and increased combat payload.
* MiG-29KUB: The two-seat trainer version of the MiG-29K.
The MiG-29 remains in service with the Russian Aerospace Forces and many other air
forces worldwide, with ongoing modernization programs to extend its operational life and
enhance its capabilities. Recent reports indicate the Indian Navy's MiG-29K variant is now
equipped with Rampage air-launched ballistic missiles, significantly enhancing its strike
capabilities.
