The Mikojan-Guriewicz MiG-29 (NATO: Fulcrum) is a 4th-generation Soviet twin-engine heavy front-line fighter with trapezoidal striped wings. The very number of more than 1,000 MiG-29s produced between 1977 and 1992 proves the potential of this aircraft. In fact, it should be counted among the 3-4 most important 4th generation fighters in the world currently in service. The MiG-29 was developed in the 1970s as a design that could match or even surpass the combat capabilities of fighters from the then hostile Western camp. And it must be admitted that it is in no way inferior to, for example, the F-16, and in many elements, for example, a powerful two-engine drive, surpasses the American competitor. Since the MiG-29 was designed to be serviced as quickly as possible, even in field conditions and by mechanics with minimal experience, any repair can be done virtually lightning fast. It's hard to imagine, but 5 mechanics are able to replace and check the engine in less than an hour! Fulcrum's extraordinary abilities don't end there. If there is a problem with the drive, even at full load, it can start using one engine and then start the other in the air. The permanent armament of the MIG-29 is a 30-mm GSH-301 gun, which is known for its high accuracy. Outer nodes can carry AA-10, AA-11, or AA-8 air-to-air missiles, as well as UB-32-57 or unguided but larger S-8K missiles to engage ground targets. not only from the countries of the former Eastern bloc, but also many other users who appreciated its great potential. Several versions of this successful fighter were built. The most important of them are, among other things, the first serial, that is, the MiG-29 (Fulcrum-A) with the S-29 "Topaz" radar and the OEPrNk-29 optical-electronic system. Another development is the MiG-29M (Fulcrum-E) with the S-29M Żuk radar with a longer range and a better guidance and aiming system. Instead of RD-33, more powerful RD-33K engines were also used. A fly-by-wire system was also used. Technical data: length: 17.37 m, wingspan: 11.4 m, height: 4.73 m, maximum speed: 2400 km/h, rate of climb: 330 m/s, maximum flight range: 2100 km, maximum ceiling 18,000 m, armament: fixed 1 gun 30 mm GSh-301 suspended (version M) - up to 5,000 kg of cargo.
