Mikoyan-Gurevitch MiG-23 Flogger

Summary

Category	Combat aircraft
Origin country	🇨🇳 Ex-USSR
First flight	10 June 1967
Year of introduction	1970
Number produced	5047 units
Average unit price	$4 million

Description

The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23, known as the "Flogger" in NATO reporting name, is a Soviet variable-geometry (swing-wing) jet fighter developed in the late 1960s. The MiG-23 was designed to offer better performance, range, and payload capabilities compared to its predecessors, such as the MiG-21.

Development of the MiG-23 began in the early 1960s, with the aim of creating a versatile jet fighter capable of adapting its wing configuration for optimal performance at different speeds and altitudes. The aircraft features a variable-geometry wing design, allowing the wings to sweep back for high-speed flight or extend for improved performance and maneuverability at low speeds. The first prototype of the MiG-23, designated 23-01, made its maiden flight in 1967.

The MiG-23 is powered by a single Tumansky R-29 turbojet engine, which provides substantial thrust for high-speed flight and rapid acceleration. Its design incorporates a sleek fuselage, forward air intake, and a bubble canopy for excellent visibility. The MiG-23's avionics suite includes radar, radio, and navigation systems, as well as an advanced fire control system for targeting and engaging enemy aircraft. The aircraft's armament typically consists of a 23 mm GSh-23L cannon and a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, as well as unguided rockets and bombs for ground attack missions.

The MiG-23 entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1970 and has participated in various conflicts, including the Soviet-Afghan War, Arab-Israeli conflicts, and the Iran-Iraq War. The MiG-23 has also been exported to numerous Soviet-aligned countries and served in several air forces around the world.

Several main versions of the MiG-23 have been produced, including:

- MiG-23S: The initial production variant, with limited avionics suite and basic armament.
- MiG-23M (Flogger B): A major production version with an improved radar system, upgraded avionics, and enhanced weapon-carrying capabilities.
- MiG-23MF (Flogger B): An export variant of the MiG-23M, with downgraded avionics suite.
- MiG-23ML (Flogger G): A further development with a lighter airframe, improved aerodynamics, and an upgraded engine.

In total, over 5,800 MiG-23 aircraft have been built, making it one of the most produced variable-geometry jet fighters in history.

Technical specifications

Version: MiG-23ML Flogger-G
Crew	1 pilot
Operational range	1150 km (715 mi)
Maximum speed	2500 km/h (1553 mph)
Wing area	37 m² (398.3 sqft)
Wingspan	14.0 m (45.8 ft)
Height	4.8 m (15.8 ft)
Length	16.7 m (54.8 ft)
Service ceiling	18000 m (59055 ft)
Empty weight	10230 kg (22553 lbs)
Max. takeoff weight	17800 kg (39242 lbs)
Climb rate	240.0 m/s (787.4 ft/s)
Takeoff distance	450 m (1476 ft)
Powerplant	1 × turbofan Tumansky R-35F-300 delivering 12996 kgp