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Mikoyan MiG-35

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Mikoyan
Company typeSubdivision
IndustryAerospace, Defense
Headquarters
Russia
ParentUnited Aircraft Corporation


For the aircraft formerly misidentified as MiG-35, see Mikoyan Project 1.44.

Template:Infobox aircraft

The Mikoyan MiG-35 (Russian: Микоян МиГ-35; NATO reporting name: Fulcrum-F) is a Russian multirole combat aircraft developed by Mikoyan, a subdivision of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC). It is promoted as a "4++ generation" fighter jet, representing an evolution of the Mikoyan MiG-29M#MiG-29M/M2 variants and Mikoyan MiG-29K#MiG-29K/KUB variants platforms.[1][2] According to sources within the Russian defense sector, the MiG-35 is effectively an enhanced version of the MiG-29KR.[3][4] It is widely viewed as a rebranding effort by Mikoyan for marketing purposes.[5][6][7][8][9] The initial prototype was a modification of the earlier MiG-29M2 demonstrator, temporarily designated as MiG-35; however, subsequent prototypes featured different configurations and systems, forming the basis of the current production model. Mikoyan officially unveiled the MiG-35 on the international stage during the Moscow Air Show in 2017;[10] with the first two production units entering operational service in 2019.[7]

The single-seat variant carries the designation MiG-35S, while the two-seat trainer model is known as MiG-35UB.[9] This fighter jet incorporates significantly advanced avionics and weapons systems compared to earlier MiG-29 versions, including enhanced precision-guided targeting abilities and a distinctive infra-red search and track optical locator system. This system reduces dependence on ground-controlled interception networks, enabling autonomous execution of multirole operations. Production models are equipped with a Passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar, with an option for an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar available.[7][4] Contrary to earlier plans, thrust vectoring capability has not been integrated into serial production models,[11] though customers can request installation of thrust vectoring nozzles if desired.

Early Concept

In the late 1980s, there were mentions of a distinctly different aircraft also labeled as "MiG-35." This variant was designed as a single-engine fighter intended primarily for air-to-air combat with secondary capabilities for air-to-ground missions. Unnamed Indian sources indicated that Indian test pilots evaluated this model in the Soviet Union, and it was likely proposed as an alternative to the Indian Light Combat Aircraft under development at that period.

MiG-29/35 in the MRCA Competition

File:Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-35 MAKS'2007 Pichugin.jpg
A prototype MiG-35D displayed at the 2007 Aero India exhibition

At the 2007 Aero India air show held in Bangalore, Russia presented a version of the MiG-29M temporarily branded as "MiG-35" for export and marketing objectives. This unveiling coincided with Russia’s efforts to sell these fighters to India. The MiG-35 competed against aircraft such as the Eurofighter Typhoon, Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Dassault Rafale, Saab JAS 39 Gripen, and General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon in the Indian MRCA competition aimed at acquiring 126 multirole combat aircraft for the Indian Air Force. However, shortcomings related to the MiG-35’s radar system and RD-33MK engines resulted in its elimination from the contest by April 2011.

In May 2013, reports emerged that Russia planned to procure 37 units of the aircraft. Later, in August 2013, the Russian Defense Ministry announced that this purchase, valued at approximately RUB37 billion (around $1.1 billion), would be postponed until 2016 due to budget reductions within the state armament program spanning 2014–2016.

By August 2015, Colonel General Viktor Bondarev, commander of Russia’s Air and Space Forces, indicated that development of the MiG-35 was expected to conclude by 2017, with induction into service projected for 2018. State acceptance trials were scheduled to commence in 2017 and finish by mid-2018, following the start of serial production. Bondarev also highlighted that the Russian Aerospace Forces intended to replace their entire fleet of light fighters with MiG-35s, estimating a requirement for at least 170 aircraft.

Throughout 2016, two initial pre-production units were assembled at Production Center No.1 located in Lukhovitsy. Both were delivered by year-end.

New MiG-35

On 26 January 2017, Mikoyan presented the latest MiG-35 model to the Russian Government during a highly publicized event, followed by a demonstration for international buyers the following day. Major enhancements introduced in the MiG-35 encompass a modern fly-by-wire flight control system, an upgraded cockpit layout, advanced avionics, and integrated precision-guided targeting for air-to-ground munitions. The aircraft is equipped with the Russian fixed NPK-SPP OLS-K electro-optical targeting and surveillance system pod, which is affixed beneath the right (starboard) fuselage on the engine nacelle, ahead of the elevators. This design approach reflects a strategic shift towards greater operational independence compared to previous Russian fighter jets.

At the MAKS 2017 International Aviation and Space Salon in July, the Russian Defence Ministry confirmed plans to acquire 24 MiG-35 fighters as part of the 2018–2027 state armament program. Of these, six will replace the aging MiG-29s currently flown by the Russian Swifts aerobatic team. On 22 August 2018, during the International Military-Technical Forum «ARMY-2018», an initial contract was signed for six MiG-35 units. The Russian Aerospace Forces intend to finalize a second contract in 2020 for an additional 14 MiG-35 aircraft.

The first two serial production MiG-35 fighters were delivered to the Russian Aerospace Forces on 17 June 2019, marking the official induction of this variant into active service.

During MAKS 2019, Mikoyan revealed a full-scale mockup of an updated MiG-35 tailored for export markets, featuring a redesigned tailfin. According to Tarasenko, this revised model includes further aerodynamic refinements, upgraded Klimov RD-33MK engines delivering nine tonnes of thrust at full afterburner, an advanced electro-optical reconnaissance system, and an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar capable of simultaneously tracking up to 30 targets. RAC MiG's announcement also highlighted “renewed mission equipment” alongside other enhancements intended to satisfy prospective international customers. The mockup showcased a new head-up display with an expanded field of view, integrated within a new mission equipment package developed by Ramenskoye PKB.

Initial flight testing

By April 2010, images and further details emerged showcasing two new MiG-35 prototypes: the single-seat MiG-35 "961" and the two-seat MiG-35D "967". Russian sources reported their maiden flights occurred in late 2009, after which they participated in the MMRCA competition trials held in India during October 2009. Both models exhibit a strong design lineage from the earlier MiG-29K/KUB variants, with a notable external distinction being the replacement of the arrestor hook—common on naval versions—with a braking parachute.[12] Later on, the MiG-35D "967" seemed to be outfitted with an AESA radar system similar to that installed on the older MiG-35 prototype "154", which is recognizable by its dark grey, shortened nose radome.[13]

On 6 September 2016, Sergei Korotkov, general designer at United Aircraft Corporation, announced that initial MiG-35 units were scheduled for delivery to the Russian Aerospace Forces in November 2016. These aircraft were intended for flight testing aimed at validating their technical specifications.[14] The first of these two planes, the single-seat MiG-35 "702," completed its inaugural flight on 24 November 2016, followed by the two-seat MiG-35UB "712" in December of the same year.[15]

On 26 January 2017, MiG officially presented one of the pre-production fighters, the MiG-35UB "712," to Russian government officials. The following day, it was demonstrated to potential international buyers.[16][17] The version displayed differed somewhat from the 2007 reveal; it reportedly lacked both AESA radar and thrust vectoring capabilities. This was presumably a cost-saving measure designed to make the aircraft more attractive to foreign purchasers.[18]

In February 2017, it was revealed that an agreement had been signed to manufacture two additional pre-production aircraft to join ongoing tests. State acceptance trials were also anticipated to commence at the Chkalov State Flight Test Centre in Akhtubinsk during that year.[19] By July 2017, Ilya Tarasenko, MiG’s general director, stated to the media: "Testing is currently underway, and based on those results mass production will begin. Serial manufacturing is expected within two years."[20][21]

In February 2018, MiG Aircraft Corporation announced completion of factory testing for the MiG-35, with certification for these trials signed off in December 2017.[22][23]

By May 2018, Yuri Slyusar, head of United Aircraft Corporation, confirmed that state-level trials for the MiG-35 had commenced.[24]

In April 2019, the MiG-35UB "11" conducted its first flight as part of ongoing evaluations. This unit represents one of two additional pre-production aircraft ordered in February 2017.[25]

In May 2021, while still engaged in state joint testing, the MiG-35 received preliminary certification authorizing limited series production. This was reported by Musheg Baloyan, Director of the MiG-29M and MiG-35 Aircraft Programs at MiG Aircraft Corporation, according to TASS on 5 May 2021.[26]

Design

The MiG-35 and MiG-35D integrate improvements derived from the MiG-29K/KUB and MiG-29M/M2 platforms, focusing on boosting combat effectiveness, enhancing versatility, and refining operational performance. Key innovations include fifth-generation information and targeting systems, support for both Russian and international weaponry, as well as a comprehensive suite of defensive measures designed to elevate survivability in combat scenarios. This updated design surpasses the original model's concepts, enabling the aircraft to execute comprehensive multirole operations comparable to those of Western fighters.

Advanced avionics equip the MiG-35 to achieve air dominance, conduct precision strikes under all weather conditions, perform aerial reconnaissance utilizing both opto-electronic and radar sensors, and undertake complex coordinated missions. Notable components include the RD-33MK engines and the newly developed OLS-35 optical locator system. The aircraft features an increased number of weapon hardpoints—nine in total, mirroring the MiG-29M2 configuration—while its operational range has been extended by approximately 50%, coupled with a reduction in radar detectability.

The onboard systems architecture is deliberately designed with flexibility in mind, employing the MIL-STD-1553 data bus to allow for future upgrades and customization of equipment. The MiG-35 is capable of carrying a maximum payload of up to 6.5 tons.

Engines

File:MiG-35D (3861855258).jpg
A pre-production MiG-35D during takeoff

The propulsion system of the MiG-35 consists of two FADEC RD-33MK Morskaya Osa (Russian: Морская Оса, meaning "Sea Wasp" or Chironex fleckeri) turbofan engines. The RD-33MK represents an advanced and latest iteration of the Klimov RD-33 engine series, originally developed for the MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB models. This variant delivers approximately 7% more thrust than the original, reaching 9,000 kgf, thanks to the incorporation of modern materials in its cooled turbine blades. Addressing previous concerns, these engines operate without visible smoke and feature systems designed to lower infrared and visual detection.

As detailed in episode 160 of the Russian military documentary "Combat Approved," plans to introduce a thrust vectoring version of the MiG-35 were abandoned due to increased weight and cost reduction priorities. Earlier designs for this variant included nozzles capable of directing thrust along two axes. Nevertheless, Rosoboronexport has indicated that, upon customer request, the engine can be outfitted with a thrust vectoring nozzle.

File:2 MiG-35.jpg
MiG-35 equipped with KAB-500KR TV-guided bombs and R-73 air-to-air missiles.

Armament

During a January 2017 briefing with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Yuri Slyusar, head of UAC, mentioned the potential future integration of laser weaponry on the MiG-35. Following the aircraft's flight tests, military evaluations of this laser system were planned to commence promptly. However, some speculation arose suggesting that Slyusar might have mistakenly referred to laser weaponry instead of laser-guided armaments. Additionally, the MiG-35 is intended to be capable of deploying the Kh-36 Grom-1 cruise missile, thereby providing it with a long-range strike ability absent in the MiG-29 platform.

Cockpit

The MiG-35 features a glass cockpit outfitted with night-vision goggles, an extra screen dedicated to the optical locator system, and three identically sized color LCD multi-function displays. In the two-seat MiG-35D variant, the rear cockpit is equipped with four LCD screens. The MiG-35D utilizes a tandem seating arrangement, whereas the single-seat model retains a two-seat canopy but repurposes the rear cockpit space for additional fuel storage.

Avionics

File:MAKS2015part8-50.jpg
13SM-1 optical-location station of the MiG-35

Production models of the MiG-35 are fitted with a PESA radar from the Zhuk series. For export customers, Russia has proposed the Zhuk-A/AM AESA radar option. Some reports have indicated that the MiG-35 might be equipped with the new Phazotron Zhuk-A/AE AESA radar, marking it as the first Russian fighter aircraft to incorporate this type of radar technology.

To detect infrared targets, the aircraft includes the OLS-UEM (13SM-1) electro-optical targeting system, capable of lookdown operations against air, sea, and ground threats. Its forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor can identify airborne targets at distances up to 55 km, providing azimuth coverage of ±90 degrees and elevation from +60 to −15 degrees. The OLS-UEM comprises:

  • An Infra-red search and track sensor
  • A TV camera with infrared tracking capability
  • A multimode laser rangefinder effective up to 20 km

Additionally, there is an OLS-K/OLS-KE podded electro-optical targeting unit mounted beneath the right engine nacelle. This system is designed to locate and track ground and maritime targets using an infrared sensor and TV camera, with detection ranges reaching 20 km for land targets and 40 km for sea targets.

For defense against current and future surface-to-air missile threats, the compact MSP-418KE active jammer pod can be installed on any of the aircraft’s nine hardpoints.

Discussions regarding enhanced capabilities for the MiG-35 have included features such as automatic landing systems, G-force protection mechanisms, voice-assisted operation, and an intelligent target recognition system utilizing neural network technology, all customizable according to client requirements.

Russia

File:1 MiG-35.jpg
A MiG-35 equipped with KAB-500KR at the 929th State Flight Test Centre named for V. P. Chkalov

Initially, the Russian Ministry of Defence planned to procure 37 units in 2013,[27] but this figure was later scaled down to 24 aircraft by August 2017.[28] The first order for six MiG-35 fighters was placed in August 2018,[29] with the initial pair of serial production jets delivered to the Russian Aerospace Forces on 17 June 2019.[30]

By 2023, it was reported that the MiG-35 had entered active production and was operationally deployed during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.[31]

In May 2025, the Russian Ministry of Defence deployed MiG-35 aircraft for their "first known operational use," specifically to protect Moscow against drone incursions originating from Ukraine.[32]

Egypt

Main article: Mikoyan MiG-29M § Egypt

Back in 2014, Egypt expressed intentions to finalize a substantial arms agreement with Russia involving the acquisition of 24 MiG-35 fighters.[33][34][35] In February 2015, Sergei Korotkov, Director General of MiG, stated the company’s readiness to deliver MiG-35 jets if Egypt requested them.Template:Fix/category[citation needed] Nevertheless, by April of the same year, Egypt opted instead to sign a $2 billion contract to acquire 46 MiG-29M/M2 multi-role fighters.[36][37]

India

The MiG-35 competed alongside the Eurofighter Typhoon, Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Dassault Rafale, Saab JAS 39 Gripen, and General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon in India's MRCA tender aimed at acquiring 126 multirole combat aircraft for the Indian Air Force. However, during the evaluation process, India's Ministry of Defence encountered significant issues with the aircraft's avionics, particularly the radar's inability to reach its designated maximum targeting range during trials. Additionally, the RD-33MK engines failed to demonstrate the required thrust levels. Consequently, the MiG-35 was eliminated from the competition in April 2011.

Currently, the MiG-35 is one of seven contenders in a renewed procurement initiative known in Indian media as MMRCA 2.0, which seeks to acquire 114 multirole combat jets. In March 2020, Russia declared its intention to offer an enhanced version of the MiG-35 featuring automatic landing capabilities and G-force protection systems as its entry for India's light fighter aircraft competition.

Argentina

In 2021, Russia proposed supplying Argentina with MiG-35 fighters equipped with Kh-35 anti-ship missiles and Kh-38 air-to-surface missile systems. On 19 September 2021, the Pakistani newspaper Dawn reported that Argentina was considering purchasing 12 CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder jets produced through a Chinese-Pakistani collaboration. In an interview with infodefensa.com, Argentine Air Force Chief Xavier Isaac identified the MiG-35 among the candidates under consideration for the Air Force's new fighter acquisition program.

Bangladesh

On 2 March 2017, the government of Bangladesh initiated a closed bidding process for the acquisition of eight fighter jets. The tender, released by the Directorate General of Defence Purchase (DGDP), sparked controversy early on as the opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, alleged that the ruling Awami League was utilizing Indian financial support to procure outdated Russian aircraft. Among the options considered was the MiG-35,[38] alongside the Sukhoi Su-30, which featured a European-origin AESA radar system. The Bangladeshi government earmarked nearly $400 million for this procurement effort. Russia engaged in negotiations with Bangladesh for approximately one year regarding the sale of the MiG-35.Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag[1] Mikoyan MiG-29M2 base dimensions,[39][40] deagel.com,[41] airforce-technology.com[42] | prime units? = met | crew = 1 or 2 | length m = 17.3 | span m = 12 | height m = 4.7 | wing area sqm = 41 | empty weight kg = 11000 | gross weight kg = 17500 | max takeoff weight kg = 24500 | max landing weight = 16,800 kg (37,000 lb) | eng1 number = 2 | eng1 name = Klimov RD-33MK | eng1 type = afterburning turbofan engines | eng1 kn = 52 | eng1 kn-ab = 88.2 | max speed kmh = 2100 | max speed note = at altitude

1,400 km/h (870 mph; 756 kn; Mach 1.14) at sea level

| max speed mach = 2.25[43] | cruise speed kmh = 804.7[44] | range km = 2100 | combat range km = 1000 | ferry range km = 3000 | ferry range note = Equipped with three external fuel tanks

6,000 km (3,700 mi; 3,200 nmi) One aerial refueling and three external tanks[45]

| ceiling m = 16000 | g limits = +9 -3 | climb rate ms = 330[43] | guns = 1 × 30 mm Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-30-1 autocannon with 100 rounds ammunition capacity | hardpoints = 9 hardpoints available | hardpoint capacity = up to 6,500 kg[1] | hardpoint rockets =

      • S-8
      • S-13
      • S-25L (laser-guided LD variant)
      • S-25-O equipped with fragmentation warhead and radio proximity fuse
      • S-24

| hardpoint missiles =

| hardpoint bombs =

| avionics = *Zhuk-ME passive electronically scanned array radar (standard production)[4] / Phazotron Zhuk-A/AM active electronically scanned array radar (optional export)[46]

  • OLS-13SM-1 Infrared search and track (IRST) systemCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
  • OLS-UEM electro-optical targeting system
  • OLS-K electro-optical targeting or T220 targeting pod
  • MIL-STD-1553 data bus system

}}

See also

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Notes

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  2. ↑ "MiG-35/MiG-35D." RAC MiG Corporation. Retrieved: 8 November 2012. Archived 27 September 2007 at the Wayback Machine
  3. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  5. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  6. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named auto
  8. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  10. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named EDR
  11. ↑ Template:Cite episode
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  25. ↑ ...
  26. ↑ ...
  27. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named 37 MiG-35s
  28. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named 24 MiG-35s
  29. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named 6 MiG-35s on order
  30. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named MiG-35 introduction
  31. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  32. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  33. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  34. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  35. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  36. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  37. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  38. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Russia offers MiG 35 to BD
  39. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  40. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  41. ↑ "MiG-35." Archived 28 October 2009 at the Wayback Machine deagel.com. Retrieved: 29 December 2013.
  42. ↑ MiG-35 Archived 27 July 2009 at the Wayback Machine airforce-technology.com
  43. ↑ 43.0 43.1 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named auto1
  44. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Episode 160, speed
  45. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named ReferenceA
  46. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named MiG-35 2019
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External links

File:Commons-logo.svg Media related to Lua error in Module:Commons_link at line 62: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value). at Wikimedia Commons

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