MiG-29K

The Mikoyan‑MiG‑29K is a carrier‑based multirole fighter developed by the Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG in the early 1990s as a naval variant of the MiG‑29. The program began in 1991, and the first prototype flew in 1994, leading to series production that entered service with the Russian Navy’s Admiral Kuznetsov carrier in 2002. The aircraft combines the lightweight agility of the original MiG‑29 with reinforced airframe structures, folding wings, and an arrestor‑hook system to operate from carrier decks. Powered by two Klimov RD‑33MK afterburning turbofans, the K version delivers thrust‑vectoring capability and a maximum speed of Mach 2.0, while its avionics suite includes a Phazotron‑NIIR Zhuk‑ME radar, glass‑cockpit displays, and compatibility with a wide array of air‑to‑air, air‑to‑ground, and anti‑ship missiles. Export customers such as India have acquired the MiG‑29K, demonstrating its adaptability to diverse operational requirements. Its significance lies in providing a cost‑effective carrier‑capable fighter for nations lacking larger, more expensive platforms, and it marks a successful evolution of Soviet‑era design into modern naval aviation. Recent upgrades have introduced the Zhuk‑MSF active electronically scanned array radar and compatibility with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, ensuring the MiG‑29K remains a competitive contender in contemporary maritime strike roles.

Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification