Mikoyan MiG-29M
Mikoyan · Soviet Union · first flew 1986 · fighter
The Mikoyan MiG-29M (NATO: Fulcrum-E) is a substantially upgraded multi-role development of the MiG-29, featuring a fly-by-wire flight control system, enlarged fuel tanks, improved avionics, and enhanced air-to-ground capability. It represents the transition of the Fulcrum family from pure air superiority to multi-role operations.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turbofan, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | Twin-engine blended wing-body with large leading-edge root extensions |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Upgraded MiG-29 with fly-by-wire and enlarged fuel capacity
- Twin-engine blended wing-body with large leading-edge root extensions
- Multi-role development of Fulcrum baseline
Closely resembles the baseline MiG-29 but has a slightly longer fuselage, relocated air intakes without the distinctive FOD-protection auxiliary inlets of the original, and a broader spine; distinguished from earlier Fulcrums by its cleaner inlet arrangement.
Specifications
- The Mikoyan MiG-29M has a length of 17.37 m (57 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11.99 m (39 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 2100 km/h (1305 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Development began in the 1980s, with the first prototype flying in 1986. Despite demonstrating significant improvements over the baseline MiG-29, the collapse of the Soviet Union delayed production; the type eventually entered service with several export customers and formed the basis for the MiG-29K naval variant.
Variants
Gave rise to the MiG-29K carrier-capable variant and the MiG-29M2 two-seat version; the MiG-35 is a further evolution of the same platform.
Where you'll see it
Operated by several air forces including Algeria, Egypt, and Syria; the Russian Air Force adopted related variants rather than the M itself in large numbers.
Related aircraft
- Mikoyan MiG-29K
- MiG-29UB Fulcrum-B
- MiG-29
- MiG-29 9-12 Fulcrum-A
- Aero L-59 Super Albatros
- Atlas Cheetah
- BAe Experimental Aircraft Programme
- BAe Hawk 200
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