The Soviet-built MiG-23 “Flogger” was designed to replace the widely-used MiG-21. The MiG-23’s advanced radar and fire control system could fire missiles at targets beyond visual range. Variable “swing” wing geometry, similar to that of the General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark, and robust landing gear allowed the MiG-23 to operate from short, remote runways. The pilot could select the wing sweep for low-speed take-off and landing or for supersonic flight.
The MiG-23MS was designed for foreign export and was less capable than domestic Soviet versions. It was equipped with a less sophisticated radar housed in a smaller radome. First delivered in 1973, it was given the NATO code-name “Flogger-E.” More than 5,000 MiG-23s of all types were built.
The US Air Force’s 4477th Test Squadron, the “Red Eagles,” flew this aircraft during Project Constant Peg. This highly classified program provided USAF, Navy, and Marine Corps fighter pilots with realistic combat training against then state-of-the-art Soviet technology. The MiG-23MS “Flogger-E” on display was declassified and transferred to the Museum in February 2017.
Technical Notes (MiG-23MS)
Crew: One
Armament: One twin-barreled 23mm GSh-23L cannon; six air-to-air missiles (mixture of infrared-homing close-range, AA-2 “Atoll” or AA-8 “Aphid”, and medium-range AA-7 “Apex” missiles)
Engine: One Tumansky R-29-300 turbojet of approx. 27,500 lbs thrust
Maximum speed: Approx. Mach 2.4
Wing sweep settings: 16, 45, and 72 degrees; adjustable in flight
Video link for aircraft move click here.
Related Fact Sheet: Constant Peg: Red Eagles
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