New MiG‑35 advancements signal shift in Russian air strategy
The Russians conducted a successful test under combat conditions of the new MiG-35 fighter jet. According to the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), which is responsible for producing the aircraft, orders for the MiG-35 are expected to begin soon.
The MiG-35, an advancement of the MiG-29, was first flown in Russia in 2016. It was supposed to replace older models, but Russia only purchased six units, which were sent to an aerobatic team. The military did not possess the aircraft. In 2023, a return to MiG-35 production was announced as an alternative to the Su-75 program.
End of MiG-35 tests over Ukraine
UAC representatives claim that the combat trials of the new aircraft over Ukraine have just been completed. In recent years, the manufacturer has introduced a series of changes to the construction of the MiG-35, resulting in the latest version of the fighter jet fully meeting the expectations of the Russian Federation's military. UAC emphasizes that changes from previous versions aim to ensure the MiG-35 is adapted for full-scale conflicts.
The MiG-35 has been equipped with technologies from the Su-57, including radar-absorbing coatings and modern navigation systems. It has been integrated with the newest weapons, and its onboard electronics have been unified with the Su-35SM and Su-30SM2.
The new MiG-35
The aircraft is equipped with new engines featuring a modular construction and digital control. These are RD-33K units, which accelerate the MiG to a speed of Mach 2.35, approximately 2800 km/h. The manufacturer also decided to redesign the wing compared to its predecessor, the MiG-29, to improve flight parameters. Despite being classified as a "light fighter," its takeoff weight is about 24,500 kg.
Details concerning the order of the MiG-35 for the Russian military remain unknown. The manufacturer does not disclose how many orders can be fulfilled. It is also unclear when the jets might be produced and delivered to the units.
