MiG-23ML
Mikoyan-Gurevich · Soviet Union · first flew 1976 · fighter
The MiG-23ML ('Flogger-G') is the most capable Flogger interceptor variant, featuring a lightened airframe, uprated Tumansky R-35-300 engine, and improved Sapfir-23ML pulse-Doppler radar.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, variable |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 16.7 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Lightweight refined Flogger with a shorter dorsal spine than earlier MiG-23M
- Smaller nose radome housing the Sapfir-23ML radar
- Variable-sweep wing; noticeably more agile than earlier Flogger variants
Shorter dorsal fairing behind the canopy compared to MiG-23M. Smaller, slightly more pointed nose. Same variable-sweep wing. The MLD added distinctive vortex-generator strakes near the nose.
Specifications
- The MiG-23ML 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
Mikoyan addressed the MiG-23's chronic thrust-to-weight deficiency with the ML variant, removing 1,300 kg through structural revision and deleting the ventral fin fold. The new radar gave genuine look-down/shoot-down capability. The ML became the standard late-production Flogger and was involved in several Middle East air combats, achieving kills over the Bekaa Valley in 1982.
Variants
MiG-23ML (Flogger-G), MiG-23MLD (further improved with vortex generators and aerodynamic refinements, Flogger-K).
Where you'll see it
Soviet Air Force from 1976; exported to Algeria, Cuba, Ethiopia, India, Libya, North Korea, Syria. Some remain in limited service.
Related aircraft
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