New Russian MiG-35S: what is known about the fighters and whether they pose a threat to Ukrainian pilots
In 2018, the Russian Defense Ministry placed an order for the production of the MiG-35S. Over five years, six such aircraft were assembled. The MiG-35S is a modernized version of the MiG-29.
Initially, the MiG-35S was considered as an export aircraft. The Russian Armed Forces were not interested in receiving such vehicles. The Defense Ministry decided to rely on aircraft designed by Sukhoi Design Bureau. The Russian defense industry failed to sell fighter jets to India. Moreover, there was not a single customer for the MiG-35S.
According to experts, MiG-35S is a marketing name. The fact is that it hides the same MiG-29 with the 4+ update package. The aircraft received a new Zhuk radar, an integrated electronic warfare system, new weapons and an updated RD-33 engine.
Technical characteristics:
- Takeoff weight: 24,5 т.
- Payload: 6,5 т.
- Maximum flight speed: 2,100 km/h.
- Effective ceiling: 16 km.
- Flight range: 3 thousand meters. km.
The MiG-35S is cheaper to produce than the Sukhoi. In this regard, the Kremlin may rely on this model. Given the fact that the Russian defense industry has managed to assemble only six aircraft in five years, the Ukrainian military should not be afraid of the MiG-35S.
