• For full details of graphics available/in preparation, see Menu -> Planners
Graphic shows details of Indian Air Force upgraded MiG-29 fighters.
GN38825EN

ASIA

India to buy upgraded MiG-29s

By Duncan Mil

February 22, 2019 - The Indian Air Force is in talks with Russia for the procurement of 21 upgraded MiG-29 “Fulcrum” fighter aircraft. Super-manoeuvrability is achieved by three-dimensional thrust-vectoring engine nozzles that allow the fighter to assume practically any angle for an attack.

Reportedly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet approved in mid-February to the MoD’s request to spend about $847 million on the “urgent” purchase -- about $40 million per aircraft.

According to Russian sources, preliminary negotiations took place in January. The MiGs bound for India are Soviet-era aircraft currently sitting unassembled since the 1980s. They will be shipped to India for reassembly and to be upgraded with the latest weapons and avionics to meet IAF requirements.

The Russian-built aircraft is now capable of mid-air refuelling and can carry the supersonic anti-ship cruise missile BrahMos, manufactured by the Russian-Indian venture BrahMos Aerospace, as well as Russian R-77 medium-range air-to-air missiles.

The IAF showcased its upgraded Mig-29 fighter aircraft at Pokhran Air-to-Ground Armament Range near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan in mid-February.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 22/02/2019; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Graphic News
Advertisement