Showing posts with label AIRCRAFT. Show all posts
Showing posts with label AIRCRAFT. Show all posts

T-100 Integrated Training System (ITS), United States of America


T-100 Integrated Training System (ITS) is a new two-seat jet trainer for fast-jet training to provide air force pilots with advanced training for fourth and fifth-generation combat aircraft such as F-35 and F-22. The trainer aircraft, along with a ground-based training system (GBTS), is being offered to the US Air Force's (USAF) T-X advanced fighter pilot training programme, which is aimed at replacing the Northrop T-38 Talon; the average age of the T-38 fleet is over 43.5 years.
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Kamov Ka-31 Radar Picket Airborne Early Warning (AEW) Helicopter, Russia


The Kamov Ka-31 (NATO reporting name 'Helix') is  a military helicopter developed by Kamov Joint Stock Company (then, Kamov DB) for the Soviet Navy and currently in service in Russia, China and India in the naval airborne early warning and control role. The main mission of the helicopter is long-range detection of threats, including airborne threats such as fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.

UAC/HAL IL-214 Multirole Transport Aircraft, Russia


The UAC Il-214 Multi-role Transport Aircraft (MTA) is a medium-airlift military transport aircraft which is being developed by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) of Russia, and formerly with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) of India.  It is being developed through an intergovernmental agreement between Russia and India.

Ilyushin Il-112V Light Military Transport Aircraft, Russia


The Ilyushin Il-112 is a Russia's brand new high-wing light military transport aircraft being developed by Ilyushin Aviation Complex (JSC IL) for air landing and airdrop of military air cargoes, equipment and personnel. Derived from the IL-114, the aircraft is being manufactured by Voronezh Aircraft Production Association at an aircraft plant in Voronezh, located some 400 kilometers (250 miles) south of Moscow.

Kawasaki C-2 Medium-range Tactical Military transport aircraft,Japan


The Kawasaki C-2 (previously C-X) is a mid-size, twin-turbofan engine, long range, high speed military transport aircraft being developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). These will eventually replace a fleet of older Kawasaki C-1 and Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules tactical cargo aircraft.

Embraer KC-390 medium-weight military transport jet,Brazil


The Embraer KC-390 is a medium-size, twin-engine jet-powered military transport aircraft under development by Embraer (Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica), one of the world's largest aircraft manufacturers, able to perform aerial refuelling and to transport cargo and troops. It is the heaviest aircraft that the company has made to date, and will be able to transport up to 21 t (23 tons) of cargo, including wheeled armoured fighting vehicles.

An-124 Ruslan (Condor) Large Cargo Aircraft, Russia


The Antonov An-124 Ruslan (Ukrainian: Антонов Ан-124 "Руслан") (NATO reporting name: Condor), designed by the Antonov ASTC, based in Kiev, Ukraine, is a strategic airlift jet aircraft. It is manufactured by Aviant State Aviation Plant, Kiev, and Aviastar, Ulyanovsk, Russia. Until the Boeing 747-8F, the An-124 was, for thirty years, the world's highest aircraft gross weight production cargo airplane and second heaviest operating cargo aircraft, behind the one-off Antonov An-225 (a greatly enlarged design based on the An-124). The An-124 remains the largest military transport aircraft in the world.
The Ruslan is designed for long-range delivery and air dropping of heavy and large size cargo, including machines, equipment and troops. During development it was known as Izdeliye 400 (Product #400) in house, and An-40 in the West. First flown in 1982, and entered service in January 1986.

Xian Y-20 Heavy Military Transport Aircraft, China


The Xian Y-20 (Chinese: 运 -20) is a  heavy military transport aircraft being built by Xi'an Aircraft Industry (Group), a part of Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), for the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The official codename of the aircraft is Kunpeng (Chinese: 鲲鹏) after the mythical bird of ancient China that can fly for thousands of kilometres.

Antonov An-178 Transport Aircraft, Ukraine


The Antonov An-178 (Ukrainian: Антонов Ан-178) is a short-range medium-airlift military transport aircraft designed by the Ukrainian Antonov company and based on the Antonov An-158 (An-148-200). The first An-178 prototype was rolled out in Kyiv on 16 April 2015. The aircraft will be available in both civil and military configurations, and will replace the ageing aircraft such as Antonov An-12, Antonov An-26 and Antonov An-32.
Construction on the second An-178 aircraft began in March 2015 while maiden flight of the aircraft is expected to take place in late 2015.

Kawasaki P-1 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Japan


The Kawasaki P-1 (previously P-X, XP-1) is a Japanese maritime patrol aircraft being developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). It is intended to replace the P-3C maritime patrol aircraft operated by the JMSDF. The JMSDF took delivery of the first two operational P-1 aircraft on 26 March 2013.

Beriev A-50 Mainstay Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft (AEW&C)



The Beriev A-50 (NATO reporting name "Mainstay") is a Soviet-built Airborne early warning and control (AEW) aircraft based on the Ilyushin Il-76 MD transport to replace the Tupolev Tu-126 'Moss'. The A-50 was developed and manufactured by the Beriev Aircraft Research and Engineering Complex Joint Stock Company based at Taganrog in the Rostov Region of Russia.
Beriev aircraft normally carry the Russian designation Be- followed by the number, however, the A-50 aircraft retained the well-known A-designation which Beriev allocated to the original prototype.
The A-50 aircraft detects and identifies airborne objects, determines their coordinates and flight path data and transfers the information to command posts. The A-50 also acts as a control centre, guiding fighter-interceptors and tactical air force aircraft to combat areas in order to attack ground targets at low altitudes. The role of the A-50 is comparable to that of the US's E-3 AEW system developed by Boeing. 


A-50 Mainstay programme and development
The A-50 entered service with the Russian Air Force in 1984. Currently, 16 aircraft are operational in the Russian Air Force. The upgraded version, the A-50U was first announced in 1995 but did not enter testing until 2008. It then entered service in 2011. The upgraded A-50Us have extended the aircraft's the service life to 2020.
The modernised A-50 aircraft can now take more fuel on board with the same take-off weight, while increasing the range and mission time performance. A satellite navigation system integrated into flight and navigation complex offers a dramatic increase in the navigational accuracy.


Design
The A-50 is based on the Ilyushin Il-76 transport aircraft, but the majority of the modifications have been performed by Beriev. In comparison to the original airframe, the A-50 incorporates a lengthened fuselage with space for display consoles and communications sytems for the 10 mission specialists. A large rotating radome mounted is mounted above the fuselage. Installed in the forward portion of the radome is the antenna for the surveillance radar while the after section houses various data-link systems that allow the A-50 to vector up to 10 or 12 interceptors at once.



Avionics
The A-50 AWACS is equipped with a flight control and navigation system used to ensure air navigation at all flight stages, in VFR and 1FR conditions, by day and night, in any season and in all latitudes. The system also provides flight control and navigation data intended for special systems. The aircraft's electronic equipment enables the crew to perform combat missions in a hostile ECM environment. 
The A-50 AWACS is fitted with the NPK-T flight control and navigation system used to ensure air navigation during all flight stages in all-weather day and night and all-year operations performed at all geographical latitudes. The system also provides flight control and navigation data intended for mission specific systems and equipment.




Radar system
The A-50U airborne radar warning and guidance system is the Schnel-M produced by Vega. It comprises:
   - radar station
   - data reduction system
   - interrogator-responder and signal transmission system
   - digital computer complex
   - identification friend or foe (IFF) equipment
   - command radio link to guide fighters
   - encoding communication system
   - radio communication equipment
   - telemetry / code equipment
   - registering equipment.
The radar and guidance systems have the capacity to track 50 to 60 targets simultaneously and to guide ten to 12 fighter aircraft simultaneously. The radar "Vega-M" is designed by MNIIP, Moscow, and produced by NPO Vega. The "Vega-M" is capable of tracking up to 50 targets simultaneously within 230 kilometers. Large targets, like surface ships, can be tracked at a distance of 400 km.

Countermeasures
The A-50 is fitted with a self-defence system when flying en-route and over patrol zones. The self-defence system ensures protection from guided and unguided weapons of the enemy's fighters attacking the aircraft from its front and rear hemispheres. The self-defence system includes an electronic countermeasures system.
The aircraft can also be protected from the enemy's fighter aircraft via guidance of friendly fighters.
The aircraft radio and electronics systems are robust against hostile jamming and provide good combat performance in dense electronic countermeasures environments.


Propulsion
The A-50 AWACS is motorized with four Soloviev D-30KP turbofan, 117,68 kN (26,500 lbf) each. The A-50 carries out patrol missions at an altitude of 5,000m to 10,000m. The patrol service ceiling is 10km. The maximum flight range of the aircraft is 5,000km and the flight endurance is seven hours 40 minutes. At a range of 2,000km, the A-50 can remain on patrol for up to one hour 25 minutes. The maximum take-off weight of the A-50 is 170,000kg. It can travel at a maximum speed of 800km/h. The aircraft can be refuelled by Il-78 tankers.

Variants
A-50M – Modernized Russian Version fitted with mid-air refueling capability.
A-50U – updated Russian variant
Izdeliye-676 – One-off stop-gap telemetry and tracking aircraft.
Izdeliye-776 – One-off stop-gap telemetry and tracking aircraft.
Izdeliye-976 (SKIP)] – (СКИП – Самолетный Контрольно-Измерительный Пункт, Airborne Check-Measure-and-Control Center) – Il-76 based Range Control and Missile tracking platform. Initially built to support Raduga Kh-55 cruise missile tests. Has fixed radar cover filled with other equipment and glassed navigator cockpit, (One prototype and five production conversions).
Izdeliye-1076 – One-off special mission aircraft with unknown duties.
A-50I – variant with an Israeli radar, designed for China but project cancelled under pressure of United States
A-50E/I – With Aviadvigatel PS-90 A-76 engines, with Israeli EL/W-2090 radar made for the Indian Air Force 

Specifications
Type
AWACS airborne warning and control system
Engine
4 × Soloviev D-30KP turbofan, 117,68 kN (26,500 lbf) each
Altitude
5,000 - 10,000 m on patrol
Producer
Russia
Operators
Russia, India and Iran
Tracking detection
Simultaneously tracked targets: 50- 60
Simultaneously directed fighters: 10 - 12
Detection range: 220 -240 km
Speed
Maximum speed: 900 km/h (559 mph)
Range: 6,400 km (3,977 mi)
Service ceiling: 12,000 m (39,371 ft)
Take Off Weight
190,000 kg
Avionics
NPK-T flight control and navigation system, day and night flying system, self-defense electronic system
Dimension / Weight
Length: 49.59 m (152 ft 8 in)
Wingspan: 50.50 m (165 ft 6 in)
Height: 14.76 m (48 ft 5 in)
Wing area: 300 m² (3,228 ft²)

Empty weight: 75,000 kg (165,347 lb)

TOP10 FASTEST PLANE IN THE WORLD


Flights for military purposes occurred in 1794 during the Battle of Fleurus. When French use an air balloon to spy Austria army. Although successful at the time, much progress has been made in the field of military air power.
List the names here are top 10 fastest plane in the world. All represented at mach speed or thespeed of sound units and each of the aircraft that was piloted using a jet engine. Just so you knowmach speed 1 is equivalent to 1225 km / hour.
10. F-14D Super Tomcat-Mach 2:34

If you ever watch Top Gun, you’ll see the Tomcat, although probably one of the previous series. F-14D Tomcat, designed by Grumman, obviously is one of the fastest types of military aircraft.
Capable of reaching speeds of mach 2.34, the plane was made in order to destroy enemy aircraft at night. While many planes are only allowed to fly in decent weather, the F-14D can fly and destroy in all kinds of conditions. Not only that, other than to attack at night and in weather that is not too good, this plane is also capable of firing at once six targets at the same time. Tomcat is also good for detecting enemy aircraft from a distance of 100 miles.
Inaugural flight on November 23, 1987 from the Grumman Calverton pages and the final prototype flew on February 9, 1990. Tomcat F-14D was the last series of the series F-14 F are upgraded with computer software far more powerful and sophisticated. However, Defense Secretary Dick Cheney thought the plane was not competitive enough to compete with modern technology today and cancel production of the F-14 in 2008.

MiG-29 Fulcrum Fighter Bomber, Russia


The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-29 (Russian: Микоян и Гуревич МиГ-29; NATO reporting name: "Fulcrum") is a fourth-generation jet fighter aircraft designed in theSoviet Union. Developed by the Mikoyan design bureau as an air superiority fighter during the 1970s, the MiG-29, along with the larger Sukhoi Su-27, was developed to counter new American fighters such as the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle, and the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon. The MiG-29 entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1983; unoffically, some Soviet pilots made use of the NATO designation "Fulcrum" for the type.
The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-29 Fulcrum jet was built as a reply to the Western world, as an addendom to Kruschev’s famous threat to the west, “We will bury you”. It has proven itself throughout the “cold war” and combat assignments as one of the former Soviet Union’s most advanced fighter jets. In 1979, the United States attempted to gain access to information about the MiG-29 through intelligence-gathering operations, and the use of satellites capable of photographing extremely detailed features from high altitudes. The plane was ascertained to be actively serving Russian air forces, built and validated by “design bureau”, known as the OKB.
The MiG29 Fulcrum is the pride of the Russian airforce and by many considered the best fighter today. That is not far from the truth.
The MiG29 is capable of making manouvers no other aircraft can do. And the manouvers others can do, it can do faster and tighter, giving it an edge in dog fights.
While originally orientated towards combat against any enemy aircraft, many MiG-29s have been furnished as multirole fighters capable of performing a number of different operations, and are commonly outfitted to use a range of air-to-surface armaments and precision munitions. The MiG-29 has been manufactured in several major variants, including the multirole Mikoyan MiG-29M and the navalised Mikoyan MiG-29K; the most advanced member of the family to date is the Mikoyan MiG-35. Later models frequently feature improved engines, glass cockpits with HOTAS-compatible flight controls, modern radar and IRST sensors, considerably increased fuel capacity, and some aircraft have been fitted for aerial refuelling.
In 1969, the existence of the United States Air Force's "F-X" program, which would result in the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle, became public knowledge. At the height of the Cold War, a Soviet response was necessary to avoid the possibility of a new American fighter gaining a serious technological advantage over existing Soviet fighters, thus the development of a new air superiority fighter became a priority. The Soviet General Staff issued a requirement for a Perspektivnyy Frontovoy Istrebitel (PFI, translating directly as "Perspective Frontline Fighter", roughly "Advanced Frontline Fighter"). Specifications were extremely ambitious, calling for long range, good short-field performance (including the ability to use austere runways), excellent agility, Mach 2+ speed, and heavy armament. The Russian aerodynamics institute TsAGI worked in collaboration with the Sukhoi design bureau on the aircraft's aerodynamics.
However, in 1971 Soviet studies determined the need for different types of fighters. The PFI program was supplemented with the LPFI(Perspektivnyy Lyogkiy Frontovoy Istrebitel, or "Advanced Lightweight Tactical Fighter") program; the Soviet fighter force was planned to be approximately 33% PFI and 67% LPFI. PFI and LPFI paralleled the USAF's decision that created the "Lightweight Fighter" program and the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon and Northrop YF-17. The PFI fighter was assigned to Sukhoi, resulting in the Sukhoi Su-27, while the lightweight fighter went to Mikoyan. Detailed design work on the resultant Mikoyan Product 9, designatedMiG-29A, began in 1974, with the first flight taking place on 6 October 1977. The pre-production aircraft was first spotted by United States reconnaissance satellites in November of that year; it was dubbed Ram-L because it was observed at the Zhukovsky flight test center near the town of Ramenskoye. Early Western speculations suggested that the Ram-L was very similar in appearance to the YF-17 and powered by afterburning Tumansky R-25 turbojets.
Technical assignment (operational requirement) issued 1972, to replace MiG-21, MiG-23, Su-15 and Su-17; initial order place simultaneously; detail design began 1974; first of 14 prototypes built for factory and State testing flew 6 October 1977; photographed by US satellite, Ramenskoye flight test centre, November 1977 and given interim Western designation “Ram-L”; second prototype flew June 1978; second and fourth prototypes lost through engine failures; after major design changes production began 1982, deliveries to Frontal Aviation 1984; operational early 1985; first detailed Western study possible after visit of demonstration team to Finland July 1986; production of basic MiG-29 combat aircraft by Moscow Aircraft Production Group (MAPO), and of MiG-29UB combat trainers at Nizhny Novgorod, for CIS air forces completed, but manufacture for export continues.
All -swept low-wing configuration, with wide ogival wing leading-edge root extensions (LERX), lift-generating fuselage, twin tail fins carried on booms outboard of widely spaced engines with wedge intakes; doors in intakes, actuated by extension and compression of nosewheel leg, prevent ingestion of foreign objects during take-off and landing; gap between roof of each intake and skin of wingroot extension for boundary layer bleed; fire control and mission computers link radar with laser rangefinder and infrared search/track sensor, in conjunction with helmet-mounted target designator; radar able to track 10 targets simultaneously; targets can be approached and engaged without emission of detectable radar or radio signals; sustained turn rate much improved over earlier Soviet fighters; thrust/weight ratio better than one; allowable angles of attack at least 70 per cent higher than previous fighters; difficult to get into stable flat spin, reluctant to enter normal spin, recovers as soon as controls released; wing leading-edge sweepback 73 degrees 30′ on LERX, 42 degrees on outer panels; anhedral approx 2 degrees; tail fins canted outward 6 degrees; leading-edge sweep 47 degrees 50′ on fins, approx 50 degrees on horizontal surfaces. Design flying life 2500 h.
Approx 7 per cent of airframe, by weight, of composites; remainder metal, including aluminium-lithium alloys; trailing-edge wing flaps, ailerons and vertical tail surfaces of carbonfibre honeycomb; approx 65 per cent of horizontal tail surfaces aluminium alloy, remainder carbonfibre; semi-monocoque all-metal fuselage, sharply tapered and downswept aft of flat-sided cockpit area, with ogival dielectric nosecone; small vortex generator each side of nose helps to overcome early tendency to aileron reversal at angles of attack above 25 degrees; tail surfaces carried on slim booms alongside engine nacelles.
Pilot only, on 10 degrees inclined K-36DM zero/zero ejection seat, under rearward hinged transparent blister canopy in high-set cockpit. Sharply inclined one-piece curved windscreen. Three internal mirrors provide rearward view.
Two Klimov/Sarkisov RD-33 turbofans, each 49.4 kN (11,110 lb st) dry and 54.9-81.4 kN (12,345-18,300 lb st) with afterburning. Engine ducts canted at approx 9 degrees, with wedge intakes, sweptback at approx 35 degrees, under wingroot leading-edge extensions. Multi-segment ramp system, including top-hinged forward door (containing a very large number of small holes) inside each intake that closes the duct while aircraft is taking off or landing, to prevent ingestion of foreign objects, ice or snow. Air is then fed to each engine through louvres in top of wingroot leading-edge extension and perforations in duct closure door. Basic ‘Fulcrum-A’ has four integral fuel tanks in inboard portion of each wing and in fuselage between wings; total capacity 4365 litres (1153 US gallons; 960 Imp gallons).
RP-29, N019 Sapfir-29, Zhuk-M radar -MiG-29M2 coherent pulse Doppler lookdown/shootdown engagement radar (NATO “Slot Back”; search range 54 nm; 100 km; 62 miles, tracking range 38 nm; 70 km; 43 miles), target tracking limits 60 degrees up, 38 degrees down, 67 degrees each side, collimated with laser rangefinder; infrared search/track sensor (fighter detection range 8 nm; 15 km; 9.25 miles) forward of windscreen (protected by removable fairing on non-operational flights); R-862 com radio; ARK-19 DF; inertial navigation system; SRO-2 (NATO “Odd Rods”) IFF transponder and SRZ-15 interrogator; Sirena-3 360 degrees radar warning system, with sensors on wingroot extensions, wingtips and port fin. Two SO-69 ECM antennae under conformal dielectric fairings in leading-edge of each wingroot extension; head-up display; and helmet-mounted target designation system for off-axis aiming of air-to-air missiles.
Retractable tricycle type, made by Hydromash, with single wheel on each main unit and twin nosewheels. Mainwheels retract forward into wingroots, turning through 90 degrees to lie flat above leg; nosewheels, on trailing-link oleo, retract rearward between engine air intakes. Hydraulic retraction and extension, with mechanical emergency release. Nosewheels steerable +/-8 degrees for taxiing, T-O and landings, +/-30 degrees for slow speed manoeuvring in confined areas (selector in cockpit).
In the West, the new fighter was given the NATO reporting name "Fulcrum-A" because the pre-production MiG-29A, which should have logically received this designation, remained unknown in the West at that time. The Soviet Union did not assign official names to most of its aircraft, although nicknames were common. Unusually, some Soviet pilots found the MiG-29’s NATO reporting name, "Fulcrum", to be a flattering description of the aircraft’s intended purpose, and it is sometimes unofficially used in Russian service.
The MiG-29B was widely exported in downgraded versions, known as MiG-29B 9-12A andMiG-29B 9-12B for Warsaw Pact and non-Warsaw Pact nations respectively, with less capable avionics and no capability for delivering nuclear weapons. Total production was about 840 aircraft.
In the 1980s, Mikoyan developed the improved MiG-29S to use longer range R-27E and R-77 air-to-air missiles. It added a dorsal 'hump' to the upper fuselage to house a jamming system and some additional fuel capacity. The weapons load was increased to 4,000 kg (8,800 lb) with airframe strengthening. These features were included in new-built fighters and upgrades to older MiG-29s.
Refined versions of the MiG-29 with improved avionics were fielded by the Soviet Union, but Mikoyan’s multirole variants, including acarrier-based version designated MiG-29K, were never produced in large numbers. In the post-Soviet era, MiG-29 development was influenced by the Mikoyan bureau's apparent lesser political clout than rival Sukhoi. Some more advanced versions are still being pursued for export, and updates of existing Russian aircraft are likely. New fighter versions called MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29SMT have been developed. Furthermore, development of the MiG-29K carrier version has been resumed for the Indian Navy's INS Vikramaditya, and Russian Navy's Admiral Kuznetsov class aircraft carrier.
Sharing its origins in the original PFI requirements issued by TsAGI, the MiG-29 has broad aerodynamic similarities to the Sukhoi Su-27, however, there are some notable differences. The MiG-29 has a mid-mounted swept wing with blended leading-edge root extensions(LERXs) swept at around 40°; there are swept tailplanes and two vertical fins, mounted on booms outboard of the engines. Automatic slats are mounted on the leading edges of the wings; they are four-segment on early models and five-segment on some later variants. On the trailing edge, there are maneuvering flaps and wingtip ailerons. At the time of its deployment, it was one of the first jet fighters in service capable of executing the Pugachev Cobra maneuver.
The MiG-29 has hydraulic controls and a SAU-451 three-axis autopilot but, unlike the Su-27, no fly-by-wire control system. Nonetheless, it is very agile, with excellent instantaneous and sustained turn performance, high-alphacapability, and a general resistance to spins. The airframe consists primarily of aluminium with some composite materials, and is stressed for up to 9-g (88 m/s²) maneuvers. The controls have "soft" limiters to prevent the pilot from exceeding g and alpha limits, the limiters can be disabled manually.
The MiG-29 has two widely spaced Klimov RD-33 turbofan engines, each rated at 50.0 kN (11,240 lbf) dry and 81.3 kN (18,277 lbf) in afterburner. The space between the engines generates lift, thereby reducing effective wing loading, to improve maneuverability. The engines are fed through wedge-type intakes fitted under the leading-edge extensions(LERXs), which have variable ramps to allow high-Mach speeds. As an adaptation to rough-field operations, the main air inlet can be closed completely and alter using the auxiliary air inlet on the upper fuselage for takeoff, landing and low-altitude flying, preventing ingestion of ground debris. Thereby the engines receive air through louvers on the LERXs which open automatically when intakes are closed. However the latest variant of the family, the MiG-35, eliminated these dorsal louvers, and adopted the mesh screens design in the main intakes, similar to those fitted to the Su-27.
The MiG-29 has a ferry range of 1,500 km without external fuel tanks, and 2,100 km with one external tank. The internal fuel capacity of the original MiG-29B is 4,365 litres distributed between six internal fuel tanks, four in the fuselage and one in each wing. For longer flights, this can be supplemented by a 1,500-litre (330 Imp gal, 395 US gal) centreline drop tank and, on later production batches, two 1,150-litre (253 Imp gal, 300 US gal) underwing drop tanks. In addition, a small number have been fitted with port-side inflight refueling probes, allowing much longer flight times by using a probe-and-drogue system. Some MiG-29B airframes have been upgraded to the "Fatback" configuration (MiG-29 9–13), which adds a dorsal-mounted internal fuel tank. Advanced variants, such as the MiG-35, can be fitted with a conformal fuel tank on the dorsal spine, although none of them have yet entered service.
The cockpit features a conventional centre stick and left hand throttle controls. The pilot sits in aZvezda K-36DM zero-zero ejection seat which has had impressive performance in emergency escapes.
The cockpit has conventional dials, with a head-up display (HUD) and a Shchel-3UM helmet mounted display, but no HOTAS ("hands-on-throttle-and-stick") capability. Emphasis seems to have been placed on making the cockpit similar to the earlier MiG-23 and other Soviet aircraft for ease of conversion, rather than on ergonomics. Nonetheless, the MiG-29 does have substantially better visibility than most previous Russian jet fighters, thanks to a high-mounted bubble canopy. Upgraded models introduce "glass cockpits" with modern liquid-crystal (LCD) multi-function displays (MFDs) and true HOTAS.
The baseline MiG-29B has a Phazotron RLPK-29 (Radiolokatsyonnui Pritselnui Kompleks) radar fire control system which includes the N019 (Sapfir 29; NATO: 'Slot Back') look-down/shoot-downcoherent pulse-Doppler radar and the Ts100.02-02 digital computer. Tracking range against a fighter-sized target was only about 70 km (38 nmi) in the frontal aspect and 35 km (19 nmi) in the rear aspect. Range against bomber-sized targets was roughly double. Ten targets could be displayed in search mode, but the radar had to lock onto a single target for semi-active homing (SARH). The MiG-29 was not able to reliably utilize the new Vympel R-27R (NATO: AA-10 "Alamo") long-range SARH missile at its maximum ranges.
These performance deficiencies stemmed largely from the fact the N019 radar was not, in fact, a new design. Instead, the system was a further development of the architecture already used in Phazotron's Sapfir-23ML system, then in use on the MiG-23ML. During the initial MiG-29 design specification period in the mid-1970s, Phazotron NIIR was tasked with producing a modern radar for the MiG-29. To speed development, Phazotron based its new design on the work undertaken by NPO Istok on the experimental "Soyuz" radar program. Accordingly, the N019 was originally intended to have a flat planar array antenna and fulldigital signal processing, giving a detection and tracking range of at least 100 km against a fighter-sized target. Given the state of Soviet avionics technology at the time, it was an ambitious goal. Testing and prototypes soon revealed this could not be attained in the required timeframe, at least not in a radar that would fit in the MiG-29's nose. Rather than design a completely new, albeit more modest radar, Phazotron reverted to a version of the twisted-polarization Cassegrain antenna used successfully on the Sapfir-23ML to save time and cost. This system used the same analog signal processors as their earlier designs, coupled with a NII Argon-designed Ts100 digital computer. While this decision provided a working radar system for the new fighter, it inherited all of the weak points of the earlier design. This reliance on 1960s-era technology continued to plague the MiG-29's ability to detect and track airborne targets at ranges available with the R-27 and R-77 missiles, although new designs like the digital N010 Zhuk-M address the serious signal processing shortcomings inherent in the analog design. Most MiG-29 continue to use the analog N019 or N019M radar, although VVS has indicated its desire to upgrade all existing MiG-29s to a fully digital system.
The N019 was further compromised by Phazotron designer Adolf Tolkachev’s betrayal of the radar to the CIA, for which he was executed in 1986. In response to all of these problems, the Soviets hastily developed a modified N019M Topaz radar for the upgraded MiG-29Saircraft. However, VVS was reportedly still not satisfied with the performance of the system and demanded another upgrade. The latest upgraded aircraft offered the N010 Zhuk-M, which has a planar array antenna rather than a dish, improving range, and a much superior processing ability, with multiple-target engagement capability and compatibility with the Vympel R-77 (or RVV-AE) (NATO: AA-12 'Adder'). A useful feature the MiG-29 shares with the Su-27 is the S-31E2 KOLS, a combined laser rangefinder and IRST in an "eyeball" mount forward of the cockpit canopy. This can be slaved to the radar or used independently, and provides exceptional gun-laying accuracy.
Armament for the MiG-29 includes a single GSh-30-1 30 mm cannon in the port wing root. This originally had a 150-round magazine, which was reduced to 100 rounds in later variants. Original production MiG-29B aircraft cannot fire the cannon when carrying a centerline fuel tank as it blocks the shell ejection port. This issue was corrected in the MiG-29S and later versions. Three pylons are provided under each wing (four in some variants), for a total of six (or eight). The inboard pylons can carry either a 1,150 liter (300 US gal) fuel tank, oneVympel R-27 (AA-10 "Alamo") medium-range air-to-air missile, or unguided bombs or rockets. Some Soviet aircraft could carry a single nuclear bomb on the port inboard station. The outer pylons usually carry R-73 (AA-11 "Archer") dogfight missiles, although some users still retain the older R-60 (AA-8 "Aphid"). A single 1,500-litre (400 US gal) tank can be fitted to the centerline, between the engines, for ferry flights, but this position is not used for combat stores. The original MiG-29B can carrygeneral-purpose bombs and unguided rocket pods, but not precision-guided munitions. Upgraded models have provision for laser-guidedand electro-optical bombs, as well as air-to-surface missiles.
The MiG-29 is available for flights of civilian passengers. Civilian flights started due to financial problems on Gromov Flight Research Institute in the Russian city Zhukovsky. Those flights in Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21, Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23, Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25, MiG-29 and Sukhoi Su-27 stopped in July 2006, when civilian flights in MiG-29 and Mikoyan MiG-31 started from Nizhny Novgorod.
There are currently several upgrade programmes conducted by the Russian Air Force for MiG-29 fighters which envisage: upgrading of the avionics suite to comply with NATO / ICAO (www.icao.int) standards, extension of the aircraft service life to 4,000 flight hours (40 years), upgrading combat capabilities and reliability, safety enhancements. In 2005 the Russian Aircraft Corporation “MiG” started production of new unified family of multirole fighters of the 4++ generation (aircraft-carrier based MiG-29K, front-line MiG-29M and MiG-35 fighters).

Variant


MiG-29 (Product 9.12)
Initial production version; entered service in 1983. NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-A".
MiG-29B-12 (Product 9.12A)
Downgraded export version for Warsaw Pact (9.12A) and non-Warsaw Pact nations (9.12B). Lacked a nuclear weapon delivery system and possessed downgraded radar, ECM and IFF. NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-A".


MiG-29UB-12 (Product 9.51)
Twin seat training model. Infra-red sensor mounted only, no radar. NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-B".
MiG-29S
The MiG-29S is similar in external appearance to older MiG-29B airframes, except for the dorsal hump behind the cockpit canopy. Differences start with the improvements in the flight control system. Four new computers provide better stability augmentation and controllability with an increase of 2° in angle of attack (AoA). Its improved mechanical-hydraulic flight control system allows for greater control surface deflections. The MiG-29S's dorsal hump, earning it the nickname "Fatback" in service, was originally believed to be for additional fuel, but in fact, most of its volume is used for the new L-203BE Gardenyia-1 ECM system.
The MiG-29S can carry 1,150 liter (304 US gallon, 2,000 lb) drop tanks under each wing and a centerline tank. Inboard underwinghardpoints are upgraded to allow for a tandem pylon arrangement for a larger payload of 4,000 kg (8,820 lb). Overall maximum gross weight has been raised to 20,000 kg (44,000 lb). The GSh-30-1 cannon had its expended round ejector port modified to allow for firing while the centerline tank is still attached. Improvements also allow for new longer-range air-to-air missiles like the R-27E (AA-10 "Alamo") and R-77 (AA-12 "Adder").
Initially, the avionics of the MiG-29S only added a new IRST sighting system combined with a better imbedded training system that allowed for IR and radar target simulation. However, the final MiG-29S improvement kit also provides for the Phazotron N019M radar and more Built-In Test Equipment (BITE) (especially for the radar) to reduce dependence on ground support equipment; MiG MAPOcalls this model the MiG-29SD. Revised weapon system algorithms in the MiG-29S's software, combined with an increase in processing capacity, allows for the tracking of up to 10 targets and the simultaneous engagement of two with the R-77 missile.
The MiG-29S also has a limited ground-attack capability with unguided munitions, but in order to transform the MiG-29 into a true multirole fighter, MAPO designed the MiG-29SM variant with the improved avionics necessary to carry and employ precision-guided weapons. The "SE/SD/SM" improvements in the MiG-29S, combined with the development money made available for the naval MiG-29K, gave MAPO the incentive to forge ahead with the multirole MiG-29M "Super Fulcrum".
Flight performance of the MiG-29S is but slightly reduced due to the additional weight of the additional fuel and avionics. Only 48 MiG-29S new-built airframes were produced for the Russian VVS before funding was cut. Of this number, it is unknown how many are the standard air-superiority "S" version and how many are the multirole "SM" version. NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-C".
MiG-29S-13 (Product 9.13)
MiG-29 variant similar to the 9.12, but with an enlarged fuselage spine containing additional fuel and a Gardeniya active jammer. Product 9.13S is also version with the same airframe as the9.13, but with an increased external weapons load of 4,000 kg, and provision for two underwing fuel tanks. Radar upgraded to N019ME, providing an ability to track 10 targets and engage two simultaneously. Compatible with the Vympel R-77 (AA-12 "Adder") air-to-air missile (similar to the AIM-120 AMRAAM). NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-C".
MiG-29SM (Product 9.13M)
Similar to the 9.13, but with the ability to carry guided air-to-surface missiles and TV- and laser-guided bombs. NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-C".
MiG-29G/MiG-29GT
It was an upgrade standard for the German Air Force's MiG-29 / 29UB, inherited from the former East Germany to the NATO standards. Works was done by MiG Aircraft Product Support GmbH (MAPS), a joint venture company form between MiG Moscow Aviation Production Association and DaimlerChrysler Aerospace in 1993.
MiG-29AS/MiG-29UBS (MiG-29SD)
Slovak Air Force performed an upgrade on their MiG-29/-29UB for NATO compatibility. Work is done by RAC MiG and Western firms, starting from 2005. The aircraft now has navigation and communications systems from Rockwell Collins, an IFF system from BAE Systems, new glass cockpit features multi-function LC displays and digital processors and also fitted to be integrate with Western equipment in the future. However, the armaments of the aircraft remain unchanged. 12 out of 21 of the entire MiG-29 fleet were upgraded and had been delivered as of late February 2008.


MiG-29 Sniper
Upgrade planned for Romanian Air Force, by Israeli firms. First flight occurred on 5 May 2000.The program was halted along with the retiring of Romanian MiG-29s in 2003. The latter occurred because of high maintenance costs, which led to the Romanian Government's decision to halt the MiG-29 program and further invest in the MiG-21 LanceR program.
MiG-29M / MiG-33 (Product 9.15)
Advanced multirole variant, with a redesigned airframe, mechanical flight controls replaced by a fly-by-wire system and powered by enhanced RD-33 ser.3M engines. NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-E".
MiG-29UBM (Product 9.61)
Two-seat training variant of the MiG-29M. Never built. Effectively continued under the designation 'MiG-29M2'.


MiG-29K (Product 9.31)
Naval variant based on MiG-29M, the letter "K" stands for "Korabelnogo bazirovaniya" (Deck-based ), with equipment such as folding wings, arrestor gear, and reinforced landing gear. Originally intended for the Admiral Kuznetsov class aircraft carriers, had even received series production approval from Russian Ministry of Defence but was later grounded in 1992 due to shift in military doctrine and state financial difficulty. MiG Corporation restarted the program in 1999 and made vital improvement to the previous design. On 20 January 2004, Indian Navy signed a contract of 12 single-seat MiG-29K and four two-seat MiG-29KUB. Modifications were made for Indian Navy requirement, now standard for all current production. Current production MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB also share a two-seater size canopy. The MiG-29K has radar absorbing coatings to reduce radar signature. Cockpit displays consist of wide HUD and three (seven on MiG-29KUB) colour LCD MFDs with a Topsight E helmet-mounted targeting system. It has a full range of weapons compatible with the MiG-29M and MiG-29SMT.NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-D".


MiG-29KUB (Product 9.47)
Identical characteristic to the MiG-29K but with tandem twin seat configuration. The design is to serve as trainer for MiG-29K pilot and is full combat capable. The first MiG-29KUB developed for the Indian Navy made its maiden flight at the Russian Zhukovsky aircraft test centre on 22 January 2007. NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-D".
MiG-29SMT (Product 9.17)
The MiG-29SMT is an upgrade package of the first-generation MiG-29s (9.12 to 9.13) containing many enhancements intended for the MiG-29M. Additional fuel tanks in a further enlarged spine provide a maximum flight range of 2,100 km (on internal fuel). The cockpit has an enhanced HOTAS design, two 152 × 203 mm (6 × 8-inch) colour liquid crystal MFDs and two smaller monochrome LCDs. The upgraded Zhuk-ME radar provides similar features to the MiG-29M. The power plant are upgraded RD-33 ser.3 engines with afterburning thrust rated the same at 8,300 kgf (81.4 kN) each. The weapons load was increased to 4,500 kg on six underwing and one ventral hardpoints, with similar weapon choices as for the MiG-29M variant. The upgraded aircraft has also a painted path for non-Russian origin avionics and weapons.
MiG-29BM
"The MiG-29BM (probably Belorussian Modernised, possibly Bolyshaya Modernizaciya – large modernization) is an upgrade to the MiG-29 conducted by the ARZ-558 aircraft repair plant in Baranovichi, Belarus...The MiG-29BM is a strike variant of the MiG-29 pure fighter, the Belarussian counterpart to the Russian MiG-29SMT." It includes improvements to weapons, radar, as well as adding non-retractable air-air refueling ability.


MiG-29UBT (Product 9.51T)
SMT standard upgrade for the MiG-29UB. Namely users, Algeria and Yemen.
MiG-29UPG
The Indian UPG version is similar to the SMT variant but differs by having a foreign-made avionics suite integrated within it, in the so called, "international avionics suite". The weapons suite is the same as the SMT and K/KUB versions. The design is a new modification intended for the MiG-29s used by Indian Air Force. It made its maiden flight on 4 February 2011. The standard includes the new Zhuk-M radar, new avionics, a IFR probe as well as new enhanced RD-33 series 3 turbojet engines. The modernization is part of a $900 million contract to upgrade the 69 fighters fleet.
MiG-29M2 / MiG-29MRCA
Two-seat version of MiG-29M. Identical characteristics to MiG-29M, with a slightly reduced ferry range of 1,800 km.] RAC MiG presented in various air shows, including Fifth China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition (CIAAE 2004), Aero India 2005, MAKS 2005. It was once given designation MiG-29MRCA for marketing purpose and now evolved into the current MiG-35.


MiG-29SMP / MiG-29UBP
Upgrade for the Peruvian Air Force MiG-29 fleet. In August 2008 a contract of US$ 106 million was signed with RAC MiG for this custom SMT upgrade of an initial batch of eight MiG-29, with a provision for upgrade of the remainder of the Peruvian MiG-29 fleet. The single-seat version is designated SMP, whereas the twin-seat version is designated UBP.
The SMP standard features an improved ECM suite, avionics, sensors, pilot interface, and a MIL-STD-1553 databus. The interfaces include improved IRST capabilities for enhanced passive detection and tracking as well as better off-boresight launch capabilities, one MFCD and HOTAS. The N019M1 radar, a heavily modified and upgraded digital version of the N019 radar, is used instead of the standard N010 Zhuk-M used on the MiG-29SMT. The upgrade also includes a structural life-extension program (SLEP), the overhaul, upgrade of the original engines and the installation of an in-flight refuelling probe.


MiG-29OVT
The aircraft is one of the six pre-built MiG-29Ms before 1991, later received thrust-vectoring engine and fly-by-wire technology. It served as a thrust-vectoring engine testbed and technology demonstrator in various air shows to show future improvement in the MiG-29M. It has identical avionics to the MiG-29M. The only difference in the cockpit layout is an additional switch to turn on vector thrust function. The two RD-133 thrust-vectoring engines, each features unique rotating nozzles which can provide thrust vector deflection in all directions. However, despite its thrust-vectoring, other specifications were not officially emphasized. The aircraft is being demonstrated along with the MiG-29M2 in various air shows around the world for potential export. The aircraft is usually used as an aerobatic demonstrator.
MiG-35
A recently unveiled mature development of the MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB. NATO reporting code is "Fulcrum-F".
General characteristics
· Crew: 1
· Length: 17.37 m (57 ft)
· Wingspan: 11.4 m (37 ft 3 in)
· Height: 4.73 m (15 ft 6 in)
· Wing area: 38 m² (409 ft²)
· Empty weight: 11,000 kg (24,250 lb)
· Loaded weight: 15,300 kg (33,730 lb)
· Max. takeoff weight: 20,000 kg (44,100 lb)
· Powerplant: 2 × Klimov RD-33 afterburning turbofans,  8,300 kgf (81.4 kN, 18,300 lbf) each
Performance
· Maximum speedMach 2.25 (2,400 km/h, 1,490 mph) At low altitude: Mach 1.25 (1,500 km/h, 930 mph)
· Range: 1,430 km (772 nmi, 888 mi) with maximum internal fuelFerry range: 2,100 km (1,300 mi) with 1 drop tank
· Service ceiling: 18,013 m (59,100 ft)
· Rate of climb: initial 330 m/s average 109 m/s 0–6000 m (65,000 ft/min)
· Wing loading: 442 kg/m² (82 lb/ft²)
· Thrust/weight: 1.08–1.1
Armament
· 1 x 30 mm GSh-30-1 cannon with 150 rounds
· 7 Hard points: 6 x pylons under-wing, 1 x under fuselage
· Up to 3,500 kg (7,720 lb) of weapons including six air-to-air missiles — a mix of semi-active radar homing (SARH) and AA-8 "Aphid"AA-10 "Alamo"AA-11 "Archer"AA-12 "Adder", FAB 500-M62, FAB-1000, TN-100, ECM Pods, S-24 rocketsKh-25Kh-29
Avionics
· Phazotron N019, N010 radars