Russian aerospace heavyweight, MiG, is demonstrating its latest cutting edge defence technology at Dubai 2005 with the newest version of the MiG-29 multifunctional combat aircraft - a highlight of the show's daily flying display.
"This new MiG-29SMT has a host of improved, compatible technology that makes it more appealing to a wider audience," said Alexey Fedorov, Director General - Designer General, MiG. "It is able to successfully compete with the most up-to-date fighters."
MiG claims its SMT is capable of precision weapons application on aerial, sea and ground targets. The MiG-29SMT in Dubai features the new Zhuk-ME multimode radar, open architecture of avionics based on MIL-STD-1553B bus military standards, a multi-channel navigation system and a new fuel system which allows for in-flight refuelling and longer flight range.
Two SMTs are at Dubai 2005, one in the static park, the other taking part in the daily flying display. They company is also showcasing the latest MiG 29 simulators.
"Upgrading a huge fleet of the MiG-29 that are in use around the world is currently a priority in MiG's activities," said Federov.
"Since numerous operators of the MiG-29s in various countries impose different requirements to an upgrade of their aircraft, the Corporation has developed a package program for upgrading the aircraft to the MiG-29SMT configuration.
"We believe that the SMT upgrade will be of interest for many current operators of the MiG-29 and to new potential customers as they are getting a very advanced 4+ generation fighter."
The comprehensive upgrade program includes:
- Upgrade of the armament management system, particularly, the in-service N-019E radar will be replaced with the new-generation Zhuk-ME multimode radar. This will turn the MiG-29SMT into a multi-role aircraft able to effectively use air-to-air and air-to-surface precision guided weapons.
The aircraft's mix of guided weapons will be expanded with the Kh-31A anti-ship missiles with active radar seekers, the Kh-31P anti-radar missiles, Kh-29TE missiles and KAB-500Kr TV-guided bombs. When equipped with an external optical/laser targeting pod, the fighter can use the Kh-29L air-to-surface missiles and KAB-500L laser-guided bombs.
- Improvements in the fuel system and an increase in internal fuel store. The internal fuel capacity on the MiG-29SMT has been increased by 950 liters through an addition of a strap-on tank behind the cockpit. The capacity of the external fuel tank has increased up to 2,000 liters. Ferry range with three external fuel tanks and two R-73 air-to-air missiles (for self-defense) has increased up to 3,100 km, and with one in-flight refueling the range will be 5,400 km. Also, the aircraft has been equipped with an improved fuel system featuring a new digital fuel metering system.
- Upgrade of cockpit instrumentation with improved ergonomics and use of the HOTAS concept. Two full-color LC multi-function displays are used. Compliance of the digital devices with the ?IL-STD-1553B standard means that the aircraft can be completed with optional Russian- or foreign-made equipment and airborne weapons depending on the particular customer's requirements and financial capabilities.
The MiG Corporation plans to carry out MiG-29 upgrade work on the customer's facilities, and a scope of upgrade will depend on the requirements of the particular user of the aircraft.
As a result, upon completion of the upgrade program in full measure, the upgraded aircraft will be able to operate like a multi-role fighter and carry the same mix of weapons as the current Russian fighters do. It will be 1.8 to 2.2 times and more than 3.5 times more effective against air targets and surface targets, respectively, than the original MiG-29.
As an option to any of the above upgrade versions, MiG offers the customers the following services:
- Modifications of the aircraft for extension of its service life.
- A changeover to on-condition use. Modifications and introduction of a new diagnostics and maintenance system will enable a step-by-step increase of the fighter life to 40 years and 4,000 flying hours.
-Ends-
For more information please contact:
Pavel Mhelsky
Tel: 70957772101
Ext: 89
© Press Release 2005
