MiG-29 Fighter Jet: History and Facts
The Mikoyan MiG-29 is a twin-engine jet fighter designed by the former Soviet Union during the Cold War, as a direct response to emerging US fighter jets. Entering into the Soviet Union’s Air Force’s official service in 1982, it combined deft manoeuvrability and a superior thrust-to weight ratio to become a serious threat in the skies. Read on to see what makes this one of history’s famous fighter jets!
A strong Soviet response
In 1969, the Soviet Union learned about the US Air Force’s F-X program, which saw the arrival of their legendary McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle. Presented with such a significant technological disadvantage, Soviet leaders took swift action to develop fighters that could maintain the balance in aerial warfare. Development of a PFI (Perspektivnyy Frontovoy Istrebitel, or “Prospective Frontline Fighter”) resulted in the development of the Mikoyan MiG-29 as well as the Sukhoi Su-27.
The MiG-29’s design
Having a shared origin, the MiG-29 has similar aerodynamics to the Sukhoi Su-27, however there are also considerable differences. The MiG-29 has a mid-mounted swept wing with blended leading-edge root extensions, swept tailplanes, and two vertical fins. In addition, it has mounted booms outboard the engines, as well as automatic slats mounted on leading edges of the wings. On the trailing edge, there are also manoeuvring flaps and wingtip ailerons to aid roll control. With hydraulic controls and a SAU-451 3-axis autopilot, the MiG-29 has excellent agility, and instantaneous, sustained turn performance as well as a strong resistance to spins.
A high speed high flyer
Like all major jet fighters, the Mikoyan MiG-29 is deceptively quick. Capable of reaching Mach 2.3, the MiG-29 can reach almost 2,450 kilometres per hour (1,522 miles per hour). This dynamic aircraft also has a maximum ceiling height of 17,000 metres (60,000 feet), giving it the necessary elevation and speed to go toe-to-toe with its US counterparts.
An amazing vertical takeoff
We’ve all seen our fair share of horizontal aircraft take offs, but how many times have you seen a vertical takeoff? Well strap in, and keep your eyes wide open as this MiG-29 starts its takeoff at a conventional 45 degrees before blasting off at an insanely cool 90 degrees!
Journey to the edge of space
If that vertical takeoff has your blood pumping, and you’re ready to experience what it’s like to sit in the cockpit of the famous MiG-29, check out the video below. This mind-blowing experience is provided by MigFlug, and gives you the opportunity to fly up to the edge of space in this iconic fighter jet! How cool is that?
Though initially designed for combat for the Soviet Union’s Air Force, the Mikoyan MiG-29 has gone on to have an extensive career in a host of roles, and for a range of different countries including Iraq, Iran, and India. Whether you want to showcase its fierce military might, or just want to admire its sleek design, you can now build this famous fighter with our 1:24 scale MiG-29 replica!
