Russia’s RSK MiG continues to offer new members of the MiG-29 family of multifunctional fighters, including the MiG-29K/KUB, the-29M/M2 and the -29SMT. They feature digital multichannel fly-by-wire systems, color liquid-crystal multifunction displays and hands-on throttle and stick controls. The company, which also offers upgrades and repairs for MiG-21, -27 and -31 fighters, is now introducing new Klimov RD-33MK engines to boost both the thrust and service life of the MiG-29 powerplant.

RSK MiG has raised combat loads for the new MiG-29s to 12,125 pounds with two more suspension points (now totaling eight) to increase the array of air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles they can carry. By adding additional fuel tanks and an inflight refueling system, the fighter family’s operational radius extends to more than 3,400 miles.

RSK MiG has also implemented on-condition maintenance programs for MiG-29 operators, reducing support costs by up to 40 percent. In addition to eliminating fixed time-between-overhaul intervals and extending the overall service life of the aircraft, the airframer has also helped to establish parts warehouses and service centers at customer bases.

Also new for MiG-29 operators, improved training packages for both pilots and technicians use interactive computer suites, as well as advanced full-mission and part-task simulators with the latest visualization devices.

The RSK MiG group combines the Mikoyan design bureau, the Voronin factory, the Fedotov flight test center and a logisitics support facility. The company also holds shares in other Russian aerospace firms, such as engine maker Klimov and helicopter manufacturer Kamov.