MiG-23 Flogger-B
This was the first large-scale production model, and appeared in June 1972 with the powerplant of one MNPK 'Soyuz' (Khatchaturov) R-29-300 turbojet with a shorter jetpipe, and rated at 18,298 lb st (81.38 kN) dry and 27,557 lb st (122.58 kN) with fully variable afterburning. This engine was located farther forward in the fuselage, which was increased in length to 56 ft 4.4 in (17.18 m).
The airframe was quite considerably revised, with the tailplane moved 1 ft 11.6 in (0.60 m) farther aft, and a new wing with extended-chord outer sections of the dogtoothed type, no leading-edge slats and an increase in leading-edge sweep of 2 Degrees. The MiG-23M also introduced ribbed air brakes, a new autopilot, a revised control system with artificial feel, the definitive ASP-23D sight, and the definitive S-23D-Sh Sapfir 'High Lark' pulse-Doppler radar with a search range of 45.9 nm (52.8 miles; 85 km) and a tracking range of 29.1 nm (33.6 miles; 54 km) providing a limited look-down capability and allowing use of the R-23 and R-24 (AA-7 'Apex') medium-range AAM in concert with the obsolescent R-3 (AA-2 'Atoll') short-range AAM that was soon replaced by the modern R-60 (AA-8 'Aphid') short-range AAM.
The dimensions of this model are close to those of later single-seat models, but the variant differs from its successors in its empty weight of 23,909 lb (10845 kg), normal take-off weight of 34,612 lb (15700 kg), maximum take-off weight of 39,749 lb (18030 kg), ferry range of 1,511 nm (1,740 miles; 2800 km), and service ceiling of 57,415 ft (17500 m).
Get your own Free Home Page