MiG-23M
Mikoyan-Gurevich · Soviet Union · first flew 1972 · fighter
The MiG-23M ('Flogger-B') is the first major production interceptor variant of the Mikoyan MiG-23, introducing the High Lark radar and R-23 missile for beyond-visual-range combat.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, variable |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | Variable-sweep wing fighter with prominent wing-pivot fairings on the fuselage spine |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Variable-sweep wing fighter with prominent wing-pivot fairings on the fuselage spine
- Single large lateral air intake on each side of the forward fuselage
- High conventional tail with large all-moving stabilators
Variable-sweep wing is the definitive recognition feature. Large fixed-geometry side intakes. Single engine exhaust. High tail with distinctive dorsal fin extension. Wing-pivot fairings on upper fuselage.
Specifications
- The MiG-23M has a length of 16.7 m (55 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 13.97 m (46 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 2500 km/h (1553 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The MiG-23M entered Soviet service in 1973 as the definitive early Flogger interceptor, addressing the limited radar range of the prototype MiG-23S. It equipped Soviet frontal aviation and PVO regiments and was widely exported to Warsaw Pact nations and Soviet client states. The type saw combat in the Middle East and Angola. Its variable-sweep wing gave it flexibility from short-field performance to high-speed dash.
Variants
MiG-23M (Flogger-B), MiG-23MF (export M), MiG-23MS (simplified export), MiG-23ML (lightweight), MiG-23P (PVO), MiG-23U (trainer), MiG-23B/BN (ground attack).
Where you'll see it
Soviet Air Forces from 1973. Exported to East Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, Egypt, India, Libya, Syria, Cuba, Ethiopia, North Korea and others. Some remain active.
Related aircraft
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