According to information published by the Russian media Kherson News on April 2, 2024, Russia is set to relaunch its military aviation capabilities with the development of a new fighter aircraft based on the iconic MiG-23 and MiG-27 aircraft. The decision comes in response to the operational insights gained from recent military engagements in Ukraine, underscoring the significant impact of high-precision weaponry on the battlefield.
The initiative aims to increase and boost the Russian Aerospace Forces with a mass-produced, easily manufactured fighter aircraft capable of deploying an increased volume of armaments. “The military operations experiences in Ukraine highlighted the critical role of high-precision weapons in advancing the front line. Thus, there’s a pressing need for a fighter jet that combines ease of production with the capability to carry a substantial arsenal,” citing Kherson News information.
Efforts to develop this new fighter, drawing inspiration from the Soviet-era MiG-23 and its derivative, the MiG-27, are reportedly in progress. The project seeks to blend the formidable legacy of these aircraft with contemporary systems and armaments, addressing modern warfare requirements. “We’re leveraging the proven design of our Soviet fighters, the MiG-23 and MiG-27, infusing them with modern technology and weaponry. This venture is about crafting a novel aircraft that pays homage to its predecessors while being fully equipped for contemporary combat scenarios,” said a member of the Russian defense industry.