MiG-29 Avionics

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Well that's some "grade A" horseshit in those scans.

There was some confusion caused in the early days of when Zhuk prototypes were shown at Western air shows and some writers conflated them with N019 series radars. All N019 radars share the same cassegrain antennas as do the N001 variants.

Much as I like Bill Gunston's writing, he was never that reliable on Soviet stuff, and my feelings on Mr Gordon are well known.

 

[Anduriel]

All N019 radars share the same cassegrain antennas as do the N001 variants.

I remember reading quite some time ago that there was a proposal to install slotted array on N019 along with other improvements, but it was never realized, much like Pero PESA for N001. Likely because it would've required massive changes to the N019 so might as well install a N010 radar that had all of these out of the box.

 

[Aeria Gloria]

Yeah, I am not one to trust Yefim Gordon unless it can be verified in some way. He is good in development and operational histories, not so much with technology or aerodynamics.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

Yeah, I am not one to trust Yefim Gordon unless it can be verified in some way. He is good in development and operational histories, not so much with technology or aerodynamics.

I understand, though he is like one of the most renown on Soviet aviation of the Brezhnev era. Also you require a technical reason, not just "Mig-29 cannot". I will find that source I told you about regarding the German G and GT during nato integration as it spoke in detail about the Russians part in the implementation and the offer to upgrade to Topaz and R-27ER.

I have it saved somewhere it's in another language, I believe in polish iirc. I might as well look now since I am writing a report about the Mig-29 ability to cobra since 9-12A (as early as I was able to confirm).

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

Well that's some "grade A" horseshit in those scans.

There was some confusion caused in the early days of when Zhuk prototypes were shown at Western air shows and some writers conflated them with N019 series radars. All N019 radars share the same cassegrain antennas as do the N001 variants.

Much as I like Bill Gunston's writing, he was never that reliable on Soviet stuff, and my feelings on Mr Gordon are well known.

Yes, there was confusion as to the name of the radar during early writings of the Mig-29.
I was under the impression regarding antenna was a mistake initially, that is was in fact a lighter, digitized ECM hardened N019 mirror scan configuration. But several (cannot say many) sources, some Polish state it was a slotted array, and any contemporary sources do not care to dive into specifics other than better performance and nothing mentioning view zones & identifiers to confirm it was same twist Cassegrain antenna type. Some source material on the Yak141 state that the radar to be used is similar to the 9-13S (smaller reflector iirc) attaches a black and white photograph of a slotted array.

These same authors do actually make a correction regarding this subject, but it's not regarding the antenna type or 9-13S, but the name of the N019 Rubin. They make a specific note correcting error in western media reporting as the Mig-29 was still new and the Cold War was ongoing. Why I began to lean more toward it was slotted, was partly because of the requirements for true tws, R-77 integration & the fact that these old authors wrote about the MiG-29 in the early days before the collapse made corrections, wrote such minute detail about the 9-13S were also armed with pictures of an old, slotted array they refer correctly by name, Topaz. Well before N010 had a serial produced version & before the MiG-29 serial modernization program ever got started. But they somehow got the antenna wrong? Possible.
Sure, examples of a slotted array (specifically for Mig-29) were seen by the West as early as the Mig-29 itself.
So, why is it not a slotted array in the 9-13S? Genuinely asking.

These radars are smaller and easier to manufacture, if the Soviets had the capability & al the desperate reason to do so, so why not? They immediately ordered and planned as a matter of national security to upgrade every Mig-29 to the Topaz standard. The slotted array is the exact type they always wanted from day one. How else would a true tws, the ability to generate real track files be implemented effectively with no beamforming in a radar type like the N019 Cassegrain? Just a better Ts100? More digitization? I continue to find it harder to believe the more I look into it. Where I am almost at the point of coming to the conclusion that no mirror scan radar of the Soviet Union & post-soviet was capable. I understand the Su-27SM was the first to have true TWS in its N001VP/VEP & that is a mirror scan, but was it really? only seen pictures of its master computer, not the antenna. I have not continued research on the SM though & yes, I know it's not an issue of the Cassegrain configuration itself (though it severely limits TWS capability) & there are western examples that is capable, but the particular unique configuration that is exclusive to the Soviets, I have yet to find the proof.

I asked myself and generally now, what are the reasons it was not a slotted array? They already produced the MiG-31 radar. Quite odd that an air defense interceptor (very important, yes) receives a phased array, but the fighter which served as the backbone of the entire Soviet Union's tactical fighter element could not receive some level of phase shifting in its mechanical scan? Perhaps MoD doctrinal shifts in national defense last days leading up to economic collapse? Possible & makes sense.

So, it comes down to this. We can confirm the radar was a closely guarded radar. Yes, the original N019 was compromised, The Soviet Union embarrassed allowed the trial & conviction of Adolf Tolkachev publicly known & immediately ordered a new radar for Mig-29 and upgrade of several other intercept radars & ground platform, an SA (forgot which). Very few sources as to the N019M Topaz are available to West, even in Russian, I have quite a few Russian books dedicated to the Mig-29 but have not gone through all of them. I am still reading the long two volume Su-27 books we discussed (they are very good & actually have a question about a page in it regarding engine thrust).

We can all confirm the Soviet Union always had the capability for high end intercept radars and initially planned to equip the Su-27 & Mig-29 with, slotted, planar arrays comparable (actually better in some aspect) to the Eagle etc. day one of PFI, but as we know, they were not able in several reasons pertaining to a inability for large scale production of digital components before collapse etc. not because the Soviet Union lacked the innovation and ingenuity as many assume.

So, we know these guys dedicated (Yefim) their life to Soviet Aviation history, I do not believe there is a single man who publishes in English as experienced, dedicated & had access comparable to him. Is this not a fact?
So, I ask genuinely. Why would this be a total impossibility?
Unless I simply have not researched hard & long enough and there is widely available 9-13S pictures with Topaz exposed out there the entire time? it always being a twisted Cassegrain radar.

I have still yet to see a single picture of the N019M in Cassegrain configuration as it sits in a 9-13S and all pictures I came up on was picture of regular old the N019 Rubin. Do you have any? I do however continue to find pictures like this: got to look tomorrow.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

Is that your book source you were referring to earlier for when R-27ER compatibility was added?

No, I literally came up on it the other day while finalizing my research on the SOS-3M & a small report on why the Mig-29 is classified supermaneuverable & pop culture's misconception in that the Su-27 is the better dogfighter.

Attached, because it's you is a better source, one that is a authority on the matter, written by Phazotron-NIIR.

I saw you are still looking for evidence that the ER is compatible with the Rubin. I respect honest dedication. I will get that Polish source about the G/GT. Though I am certain you care only for proof it was, but others are still on the fence. Believe me, if I find it did. I will not hold it. But I am telling you there is not even the slightest hint, a logical reason, historical record or technological evidence that the ER was made capable, quite the opposite & the Ukrainians also note they had to substantially modify the transmitter and receiver for their own domestic ERs in the MU1/2. We can argue antenna all day long especially for the last production fighter of the Soviet Union. But I already been up and down the road of the R-27ER long before we engaged. It simply never was capable.

And what’s your source for N-019M being a slotted array. I had only heard of them adding Ts101.

Well to Overscan's point, these are the only easily retrievable sources to refer to the topaz as a slotted array. Now I have to check the Yak-141 source who is the author of it because they too refer as the radar to be housed is slightly modified N019M Topaz of the 9-13S & picture an old, slotted array. As well as reconfirm those exact polish sources.

Additionally, on the flipside, not even Phazotron-NIIR's own written history (attached below) or any other sources I have found (could be that I missed it) ever definitively state it was a slotted array or the same Cassegrain type as N019. All sources, do state simply that it was a "Upgraded radar" or "new radar" hence the name Topaz. Which traditionally, name signifies series of new radar, Saphire, Ruby etc.

As for you only hearing them adding a better processor.... I do not believe this because I would have thought you of all people would know the 9-13S was the first Mig-29 to implement R-77 in service... Active radar homing & other smart munitions such as GPS guidance require advanced digital interface, a robust method for data exchange between the aircraft and its stores. An advanced electronic interconnection system of cables down to the stores (pylon) is required. Each store requires substantial physical upgrade for active radar homing capability. I forgot how many pylons for 9-13S. I am pretty sure it's all 6 just like the other serial modernized S variants.

The R-27ER besides the R-77 is specifically mentioned by Phazotron-NIIR as a missile to come to the 9-13S. "included, among other things, R-27 with more powerful motor." Straight from the horse's mouth, it's a principal feature of the 9-13S. However, I have a feeling you still will not be satisfied with that either. Yefim had nothing to do with this historical record of the MiG-29 its just Phazotron-NIIR.

The 9-13S & 12S also were first to receive the SOS-3M-3 limiter which prioritized increased maneuverability & overall flight performance. All serial modernized MiG-29 to S standard have the SOS-3M-3 Which increased instantaneous/permissible angle of attack from the prior SOS-3M of 26 degrees to 28 in full pitch, roll and yaw authority. Beyond 28 degrees, only pitch.

The 9-13S is the Soviet Union's intended full scale production Fulcrum that is why the earlier product indexes like the 9-12A etc. were often referred to pre-production Fulcrums. Post Soviet models SMT etc. are serial modernized variants of the full rate production Mig-29, the 9-13 & final 13S. All existing 9-12/13 would to be brought to S standard & the rest is history.

The N019 Rubin is an operationally obsolete radar of a pre-production version of the MiG-29 that was entirely phased out by the VVS prior to the collapse due to espionage by the CIA & the was a place holder radar anyway. There was no reason to make the ER backwards compatible & in doing so would defeat the entire reason they rushed to replace the Rubin in the first place. The VKS uses Topaz & modernized versions of the original N010. They no longer refer to these radars as "Zhuk" series either. Every client of MiG-RSK who has R-27ER & R-77 equipped on their Fulcrums has all been confirmed to be using Topaz or greater.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

You seem to have a serious interest in the subject @ZIGGY-2014 but your research methodology is quite flawed and almost everything above is incorrect. I'll post a full reply later.

Yes, photos of N019M are hard to find. That's because it wasn't fitted to many aircraft.

Here's a Malaysian MiG-29SD being loaded for delivery. It featured an N019EM radar with RVV-AE compatibility. Its definitely got a twist-cassegrain antenna at this time.



Source: MiG - Flying Through Time, Vol 2

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

You seem to have a serious interest in the subject @ZIGGY-2014 but your research methodology is quite flawed. I'll post a full reply later.

Yes, photos of N019M are hard to find. That's because it wasn't fitted to many aircraft.

Here's a Malaysian MiG-29SD being loaded for delivery. It features an N019EM radar with RVV-AE compatibility.

View attachment 772529

Source: MiG - Flying Through Time, Vol 2

I see...

The SD is a serial modernized version offered by MiG... Malaysia was one of the first clients of the program...

However, how do you know if this picture is not during the initial Mig-29 purchase way back and not after serial modernization??? It definitely an older photograph.

I see no R-77, it does not even have wings, but most importantly.... I see no refueling probe.

Because from what I remember, the upgrade took place in 1999 and Malaysian MiG-29's specifically received the refueling probe.... That is an upgrade of the SE if I remember correctly.... or was it the other way around, now you got me confused.

But, what I do know and always known is that the Malaysian Mig-29's specifically were upgraded with refueling probes. Where is yours? Serial modernization takes place in the Clients country btw. I can absolutely confirm this with written Ukrainian evaluation of the SMT, historical record of the Slovakian AS.

MiG-MAPO/RSK always offered 6 month lead time to prepare components and installation to be carried out in the client's country. They never made the client ship back the entire jet. Does not even make much sense to do so. The Algerian SMTs were supposed to be serial produced brand new units altogether.




Bill wrote this below btw. Think you are a little too hard on the guy.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Sure, we could believe the late Mr Gunston, or maybe instead the recently published official book written by the Mikoyan OKB archivist?

The MiG-29SD (9-12SD) was made to order for the Royal Malaysian Air Force in the early 1990s, and for the first time in domestic practice it was created according to the customer's requirements, rather than trying to sell the simplified "B" version, which was standard for Soviet times.

Source: MiG: Flying Through Time Vol 2

Here's a cutaway of the 9-12SD, with inverse cassegrain antenna N019ME radar.


Source: MiG-29, Andrei Fomin & Yefim Gordon, Polygon 1998

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

There is no evidence N019M radar had a different antenna. You want it to be true, but that doesn't make it so. If you find some evidence to back it up, then that would be something to discuss. All you have are mistakes in 30 year old books.

N019M was a quick upgrade of an existing radar to add better ECM, and RVV-AE compatibility. N010 Zhuk was the actual replacement for N019, and the MiG-29M would have brought that to production a few years after N019M had the Soviet Union not collapsed.

Bill Gunston is one of my favourite authors. He was good for his era. However, for Mikoyan information, my money's on the archivist with primary source access.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

There is no evidence N019M radar had a different antenna. You want it to be true, but that doesn't make it so. If you find some evidence to back it up, then that would be something to discuss.

N019M was a quick upgrade of an existing radar to add better ECM, and RVV-AE compatibility. N010 Zhuk was the actual replacement for N019, and the MiG-29M would have brought that to production a few years after N019M had the Soviet Union not collapsed.

Sure, we could believe the late Mr Gunston, or maybe instead the recently published official book written by the Mikoyan OKB archivist?


Source: MiG: Flying Through Time Vol 2

Here's a cutaway of the 9-12SD, with inverse cassegrain antenna N019ME radar.

View attachment 772535
Source: MiG-29, Andrei Fomin & Yefim Gordon, Polygon 1998

Right, but your source and picture does not have the probe. Regardless if its goes by SD, SE, XXL or SMT-5. They received the probe and that picture clearly does not have one or the R-77,

There is not a single R-77 on that cut out drawing anyway.
That is R-73 and R-27.
Again, you just proved we cannot even find a single drawing of the R-77 and Cassegrain radar let alone a picture of it. Bill & Yefim seem a little less crazy imo. Your own source the cut-out is supplied by Yefim Gordon!!!

No, I do not care if the 9-13S had a slotted array or not. As it does not add or take away a single capability it is confirmed to already have. It is fascinating that Russian aviation history is so tight lipped on the matter and Phazotron likes to skip it altogether and mentions it as briefly as possible. Maybe its due to the trauma of their Chief designer selling out to the Americans? Likely.

Additionally, no, serial modernized package offered by MiG, requires a client to send the whole thing back to Russia. Not even the SMT. I can grab the source (after sleep) written by Ukrainian Colonel (forgot his name) during evaluation whether it's worth it or try domestic modernization (SMT was proven most excellent). They state the entire time it takes to modernize Ukrainian fleet & the time need for preparation which goes down in client's nation. A 6-month lead time is required for parts and facility preparation. Slovakia, same thing all done right in the driveway.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Bear with me. I'm having to translate from Russian using Google translate. The caption is:

огрузка МиГ-29СД № 5215 в транспортный самолёт Ан-124 «Руслан» для отправки в Малайзию. Оснащение самолётов системой дозаправки топливом в полёте, БРЛС НО19ЭМ «Топаз» и управляемыми ракетами РВВ-АЕ осуществлялось уже в Малайзии при участии российских специалистов

Carriage of MiG-29SD 5215 in the AN-124 Ruslan transport aircraft for sending to Malaysia. Equipping aircraft with a fuel refueling system in the flight, BRLS NO19EM Topaz and controlled RVV-Ae missiles was already carried out in Malaysia with the participation of Russian experts.

Now if I understand this correctly its saying the NO19EM Topaz radar, fuel refuelling system and RVV-AE missiles were installed after delivery of the airframe to Malaysia with the assistance of Russian experts, which means they could have removed the entire original radar. So yes, in this case the photo isn't showing the N019EM. So we are still looking for a photo.

The Su-27's N001V is the direct equivalent of the N019M, and it has the same basic improvements while retaining the existing twist-cassegrain antenna. Then N001VP adds a separate parallel channel using Baguet processor for air/ground capability, exactly as N019MP does. Why theorise that N019M is some mysterious new radar miraculously refit to the entire MiG-29 fleet?

Using RVV-AE doesn't in any way preclude a minor change N019M. It could use the same basic interface as R-27, which already has INS and course correction.

Track-while-scan has no relation to cassegrain-versus-slot array. Its a software and computing problem. Ts101 would have allowed improvements here as it was a fair bit faster than Ts100.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

Bear with me. I'm having to translate from Russian using Google translate. The caption is:


Carriage of MiG-29SD 5215 in the AN-124 Ruslan transport aircraft for sending to Malaysia. Equipping aircraft with a fuel refueling system in the flight, BRLS NO19EM Topaz and controlled RVV-Ae missiles was already carried out in Malaysia with the participation of Russian experts.

Now if I understand this correctly its saying the NO19EM Topaz radar, fuel refuelling system and RVV-AE missiles were installed after delivery of the airframe to Malaysia with the assistance of Russian experts, which means they could have removed the entire original radar. So yes, in this case the photo isn't showing the N019EM.

I agree, but its contradicting itself or are conflating both sentences with the picture when it relates to only one. The first sentence, but the source is still DEAD WRONG that is not a picture of Malaysia SD after upgrade.

You contradicted your source with another, a cut-out drawing of an SD that has no mention of the R-77, but has the probe.

So, what the hell was done that all fighters needed to go back to Russia if the radar, active radar homing, refueling was done in Malayasia? The source is simply using a bunk photo. It's not the SD, but the 9-12 prior to upgrade and calling it the SD or you are conflating two sentences as one event and the source is still wrong regardless.

I say that photo is at the delivery of the Mig-29 itself. Painting the aircraft prior to delivery is a known thing. The F-14 was painted as the Shah wanted & delivered to Tehran by US pilots for example. Sure other examples exist. The source is incorrect. It identified that picture as the SD being loaded up. It was not but the 9-12 prior.

Unless this is a hill worth dying on for whatever reason. Defense of the author?
You have no other reasonable, logical choice but to discard the source MiG: Flying Through Time Vol 2 as invalid in this matter.

Anyway, interested to look into it more & I have to do more MiG-29 stuff anyway, but later today.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Malaysia ordered the MiG-29SD version (locally designated MiG-29N) in June 1994. 16 already-built planes were to be upgraded to MiG-29SD standard.

This photo is from the original delivery flights from Russia in 1995, agreed. Radar had to be finalised and tested, refuelling probe created and tested, etc.

Yefim Gordon in his Famous Russian Aircraft series MiG-29 book says they were delivered complete with upgraded avionics, only without refuelling probe which was fitted later. I don't think this is correct.

As far as I can find, they were equipped with standard N019 radars at delivery and then upgraded with refuelling probe and N019EM Topaz radars in 1997-1999 during 800 hours overhaul in Malaysia.

In terms of Russian Air Force usage, the only ones definitely using N019M were a small number of 9-13S airframes with N-019EM mostly built for Algeria and then repurposed after they were rejected by the customer.

I think it likely that Soviet MiG-29s received some N019 component upgrades, but not seen a source suggesting they all got new N019M radars.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

Malaysia ordered the MiG-29SD version (locally designated MiG-29N) in June 1994. 16 already-built planes were to be upgraded to MiG-29SD standard.

This photo is from the original delivery flights from Russia in 1995, agreed. Radar had to be finalised and tested, refuelling probe created and tested, etc.

Yefim Gordon in his Famous Russian Aircraft series MiG-29 book says they were delivered complete with upgraded avionics, only without refuelling probe which was fitted later. I don't think this is correct.

As far as I can find, they were equipped with standard N019 radars at delivery and then upgraded with refuelling probe and N019EM Topaz radars in 1997-1999 during 800 hours overhaul in Malaysia.

In terms of Russian Air Force usage, the only ones definitely using N019M were a small number of 9-13S airframes with N-019EM mostly built for Algeria and then repurposed after they were rejected by the customer.

I think it likely that Soviet MiG-29s received some N019 component upgrades, but not seen a source suggesting they all got new N019M radars.

Yeah agreed, RF 9-13S for sure, only thing is Phazotron states the Algerian SMT is actually SMT-1 version. SMT-1 versions are defined as slotted arrays equipped with the Zhuk while regular SMT is N019ME Topaz like 9-13S. Here before I go sleep for real. There is more I will get later.

All Russian Federation SMT's are said to now utilize latest domestic FGM-129 that is in the 9-19R in different source (find later) and only one being manufactured as of 2014 for MiG-29 besides the FGM-229 indicated by Phazotron again.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

MAPO built 46 (only) production MiG-29S (9-13S) airframes with N-019M. Only 16 entered service with the Russian Air Force (with N019M radar) and the other 30 languished a while looking for a buyer.

A number of these were repurposed to 9-19 (MiG-29SMT) standard and delivered to Algeria and then sent back. They probably lost their N019M radars in the upgrade to SMT.


. (The MiG Flying Through Time book discusses original MiG-29SMT (9-17) and MiG-29SMT (9-19))

In parallel with Yemen, RAC "MiG" launched active work in Algeria, which was in dire need of modernization of aircraft previously delivered from Belarus. The machines were in a very worn-out condition. Then the Russian side proposed to replace them with new MiG-29SMT (9-19) fighters, and the Algerian government agreed.

But it turned out that at the end of 2003, the general director and general designer of RAC "MiG" N.F. Nikitin was removed from the management of the corporation, and the new head of the company led the negotiations to a dead end. And only in 2005, after A.I. Fedorov became the head of the corporation in September 2004, the negotiations resumed and the contract was finally signed. But by that time the political situation in Algeria had changed dramatically: pro-Western politicians came to power, the former leaders were removed from their posts, and some of them were arrested.

Against the backdrop of such events, the contract was nevertheless implemented, but with nitpicking on the part of the customer. The planes were new and required minor modifications. The essence and depth of these deficiencies can be described as follows: a special protocol was drawn up for each aircraft, and a "Mikoyan" mobile team corrected the deficiencies (one aircraft per day). When the Algerians at the Air Force headquarters saw the pace at which the acceptance of the aircraft was proceeding, they simply stopped this process. The Algerian pilots tried to fly as many MiG-29SMTs as possible, they really liked it. According to them, in terms of equipment, avionics, and fuel reserves, the plane was incomparable with the basic MiG-29.
The pilots in Algeria made more than 100 flights on the MiG-29SMT. The aircraft was in demand, but political contradictions led to various attempts to put pressure on Russia, including refusing to accept the fighters under a far-fetched pretext.

In this situation, the General Director of the RAC "MiG" A.I. Fedorov made great efforts to convince the command of the Russian Air Force to accept these aircraft into service with the Air Force. In February 2009, the first machines arrived at the Lipetsk Aviation Center and almost simultaneously to the 14th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment stationed at the Kursk-Vostochny airfield. In total, after the aircraft were adapted to Russian requirements in terms of the state identification system, radio communications and the nomenclature of aviation weapons were 28 MiG-29SMT (9-19) and six modernized combat training MiG-29UB (9-53A): 24 single-seat and four "twins" - in the Kursk aviation regiment, two MiG-29SMT and one MiGG-29UB - in the TsPAPIVI in Lipetsk and GLITs in Akhtubinsk.

MiG - Flying Through Time Vol 2

 

[lancer21]

MAPO built 46 (only) production MiG-29S (9-13S) airframes with N-019M. Only 16 entered service with the Russian Air Force (with N019M radar) and the other 30 languished a while looking for a buyer.

A number of these were repurposed to 9-19 (MiG-29SMT) standard and delivered to Algeria and then sent back. They probably lost their N019M radars in the upgrade to SMT.


. (The MiG Flying Through Time book discusses original MiG-29SMT (9-17) and MiG-29SMT (9-19))


MiG - Flying Through Time Vol 2

My understanding was that of the 30 or so MiG-29S, Sudan, Myanmar and Peru bought them to the export modified SE standard? Not clear the origin of algerian SMTs and whether they were 9.12 or 9.13 initially, but they could have been some of the 70 or so 9.12B airframes left without customers from 1991, or perhaps from the stock of unfinished airframes from where the russian 9.19 SMTs were built, plus the other 21 SMTs initially intended to be sold to India few years back, but looks like that deal was stopped by US pressure.
Since the algerians complained of old subassemblies, perhaps they were part of the 70 9.12B/ MiG-29Bs.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

I agree, but its contradicting itself or are conflating both sentences with the picture when it relates to only one. The first sentence, but the source is still DEAD WRONG that is not a picture of Malaysia SD after upgrade.

I think thats just a mistranslation, and its saying they were upgraded afer delivery? Need a Russian speaker to confirm.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

Yeah, I am not one to trust Yefim Gordon unless it can be verified in some way. He is good in development and operational histories, not so much with technology or aerodynamics.

Getting warmer I think.

New variant - MiG-29S (9-13S)

The development of this version of the aircraft was largely forced by the betrayal of Alexander Tolkachov, who, in the early 1980s, transmitted to the United States a number of essential pieces of information about the most important radar complexes of Russian fighter aircraft. In this situation, the necessary modernization work immediately gained the required priority. Essential work began in 1986.

As it turned out, the proposed changes exceeded the initially outlined framework. The fire control system of the new tactical fighter aircraft, designated SUW-295, was based on the modernized RŁPK-29M radar complex, which included the N019M Topaz radar station and the CWM C.101M digital processor. The RŁPK-29M complex featured new software, increased resistance to interference, and expanded self-control blocks.

The aircraft could also carry R-27ER missiles (alongside the R-27R).
The use of R-27R/R-27ER radar missiles and R-27T/R-27ET thermal missiles in the so-called "mixed" armament variants was to increase the probability of shooting down a target using active radio-electronic interference.

Of course, the radar station of the RŁPK-29M complex still limited the range of the R-27ER and R-27ET missiles to 60 km, but due to their higher speed on the flight path, the firing sequence was significantly shortened. In essence, this solution served to equalize the chances in air combat with Western fighters armed with the fast guided missiles - AIM-120 AMRAAM, with an active self-guided radar head, which were beginning to become their main armament fast AIM-120 AMRAAM guided missiles, with an active self-guided radar head.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

I think thats just a mistranslation, and its saying they were upgraded afer delivery? Need a Russian speaker to confirm.

Carriage of MiG-29SD 5215 in the AN-124 Ruslan transport aircraft for sending to Malaysia.

The sentence structure is screwed up sure, but it specifically list type and what action follows in regard to it. That is the key piece that invalidates the source no matter who translates it or how many times.

Sending SD from Russia Malaysia is incorrect. We already concluded there is no logical reason especially when the same source says at the same time that all of the upgrades that consist of the SD serial modernization package were done in Malaysia. Or we can break out more sources I have no issue with that.

The picture is the 9-12 prepped for Malaysia following purchase of the aircraft when brand new. The picture has no relation to the purchase of SD if it is still sitting in 9-12 configuration in Russia about to be sent to Malaysia. You don't need a speaker of the Russian language to translate this.

No matter how many times it is translated it's not going to come back with more words & somehow now be correct:
"This picture is actually the Mig-29 9-12 being prepped for shipping in AN-124 to Malaysia after initial purchase of the aircraft, it was upgraded later there in that country with assistance of MiG specialist to SD standard".


Why not share the whole page and let it speak for itself? let everyone translate it how they see fit?

 

[F-2]

Peru very likely had some modifications that allowed r77. As I understand it though it’s a farther strange saga how they got the jets. This is long before MiG-29smp.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Carriage of MiG-29SD 5215 in the AN-124 Ruslan transport aircraft for sending to Malaysia.

Sending SD from Russia Malasia is incorrect. We already concluded there is no logical reason especially when the same source says all of the upgrades that consist of the SD serial modernization package were done in Malaysia. Or I can break out more sources I have no issue with that.

Picture is the 9-12 to Malaysia following purchase of the aircraft when brand new. The picture has no relation to the purchase of SD if it is still sitting in 9-12 configuration in Russia about to be sent to Malaysia. You don't need a speaker of Russian to translate this.

That's being a little pedantic. That is the MiG-29SD 5215 airframe. Malaysia bought the MiG-29SD version, not the vanilla MiG-29. The airframes were delivered in a partially upgraded state, and the final elements (radar, refuelling probe) were added in Malaysia later.

--

MiG-29M development was started in September 2, 1983. It was intended from the start to have an improved, new generation multirole radar, the N010 Zhuk.

The immediate catalyst for development of the 9-13S, according to Mikoyan documentation, was the arrival of the F-16C and the especially the imminent arrival of AIM-120 (late 80s). The long term counter to F-16C would be the MiG-29M, but as a stopgap, the MiG-29S (9-13S) was designed, with armament including the RVV-AE missile intended to match the AMRAAM missile. The modernised SUV-29S (N019M radar, Ts101 computer) made possible the simultaneous use of missiles at two targets. It also features changes to improve ECM immunity. In addition, it became possible to use the "energy" versions of the R-27 missile (R-27ER, ET) with an increased launch range and speed, and the maximum bomb load was increased to 4 tons.

In 1988-1989, to test the SUV-29S and new missiles, two experimental aircraft were built: No. 405 (first flight January 20, 1989) and No. 404 (first flight June 30, 1989) based on serial machines No. 3916 and No. 4318.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

That's being a little pedantic. That is the MiG-29SD 5215 airframe.

Of course, its the same airframe the SD is a upgrade package of the Mig-29... Why would that source need to add a picture of the 9-12 to show us that its an airframe capable of being upgraded to SD?

Malaysia bought the MiG-29SD version, not the vanilla MiG-29. The airframes were delivered in a partially upgraded state, and the final elements (radar, refuelling probe) were added in Malaysia later.

Really?? But you cannot determine a single upgrade of the SD that took place in Russia?

They were not purchased as SD from the beginning.

Malaysia's Fulcrums are designated the MiG-29N and the MiG-29NUB for the two-seater trainer version. They have the baseline Fulcrum-A configurations but had received some upgrade work in 1999 to enhance their fire control radars and allow them to have beyond visual range ( BVR ) missile capabilities. In particular, we are talking about equipping the Fulcrums with the Vympel RVV-AE missile, a.k.a. the Vympel R-77 or AA-12 Adder medium range air-to-air missile. It was a serious game changer at that time as it introduced a new capability to the region. None of the South East Asian air forces had BVR missiles at that time and the United States was reluctant to sell it to anyone least it triggers off an arms race. But Malaysia had to do it first, and the floodgates were opened. Today, almost every regional air force has BVR capabilities. The F-16 and F-15 fighters of the Republic of Singapore Air Force are equipped with the AIM-120C5 and C7 variants. Even RMAF's F/A-18D Hornets have the AIM-120C5.

Another important part of the upgrade was the addition of a retractable aerial refueling probe on the port side just below the canopy. This can significantly increase the combat radius of the Fulcrum when paired with RMAF's KC-130 tanker.

You can totally throw your source under the bus anytime, btw. It is incorrect after all. We all jump the gun time to time eager to prove another wrong. Putting pride aside & admitting when a source is invalid is critical however... Or you can simply go down with that ship, it makes no difference to me.

Why not share the whole page and let it speak for itself? let us all translate it ourselves.
So far all you have posted was a picture of a 9-12 saying it's an SD from some book. When called out on the lack of probe, instead of sharing the page, you brought in another source (from Yefim Gordon of all people) to defeat it... Now only a natural born Russian speaker wields the ability to translate it?

The SD cutout shows the variant is defined by the probe, I thought SE but ok sure, lets run with you and Yefim on this.

The Malaysian Mig-29N all have fuel probe as a defining feature of the variant, it is listed in every source regarding it and pictured in recent photos confirmed to be after upgrade. Your initial source, your only source that was brought in not only intended to prove me wrong but also claim my entire "research methodology" was incorrect as well as "almost everything" I stated prior. However, your source totally contradicts itself, lacks logic & undeniable physical features that define it as the Malaysian Mig-29N. You were simply caught flatfooted thinking I have no idea what the Malaysian variant consists of & why. As if this picture is somehow bulletproof?? though there is not a single relation in it to the R-77 or the SD upgrade other than what?? That it's definitely a Mig-29 airframe?

The most shocking part is you try to slide in a cutout literally supplied by the very author you claimed on more than one occasion to have issue with... only further highlighting that the probe is a defining upgrade of the SD anyway... Did you not see his name when you copied and pasted:

Source: MiG-29, Andrei Fomin & Yefim Gordon, Polygon 1998

 

[Aeria Gloria]

What exhaustion. Over what, export options? If we can agree that N-019M is way more likely then not a twist cassegrain radar, let’s move on.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Of course, its the same airframe the SD is a upgrade package of the Mig-29... Why would that source need to add a picture of the 9-12 to show us that its an airframe capable of being upgraded to SD?

You advanced a theory that N019M radar had a slotted radar array. Your evidence is solely in some old sources which seem to have been confused between N019M and N010 Zhuk, which is something I noticed when researching my old Russian Avionics Page 20+ years ago.

I noted I'd never seen a picture of an N019M radar myself, so while I doubted your claim I wanted to prove or disprove it so I went looking for a picture of a MiG-29 with N019M radar. I found a picture of a Malaysian MiG-29 being delivered in the MiG: Flying Through Time book in Russian, with a caption in Russian mentioning N019EM.

You said it was missing the refuelling probe, which I agreed, so I translated the text of the caption. It seemed to say that the radar was upgraded after delivery, which if correct (Google Translate isn't always 100% acccurate) means the picture doesn't actually show the N019EM. So, we still don't have a picture of an N019EM. I check Yefim Gordon's Famous Russian Aircraft MiG-29 book (2006 edition) and he had some similar pictures and he suggested that the avionics were upgraded before delivery but the probe fitted later. On checking more sources, it seems likely that, on delivery, the airframe was fitted with a standard N019, so, not proven.

The most shocking part is you try to slide in a cutout literally supplied by the very author you claimed on more than one occasion to have issue with... only further highlighting that the probe is a defining upgrade of the SD anyway... Did you not see his name when you copied and pasted:

Shocking?

The cutaway was not "supplied by Yefim Gordon". It was drawn for the Polygon MiG-29 book by the artist A. V. Mikheev for a book cowritten by Andrei Fomin and Yefim Gordon . Mr Mikheev is credited as the third author (supplied photos, drawings, and graphic illustrations). I have a copy of this book, its pretty decent but old now (1998).

I was 100% aware who wrote the book. It specifically labels the radar as N019EM and shows it as a cassegrain antenna. Now, this could be a mistake on the part of Mr Mikheev, so its not definitive evidence either way, but it is something.

Your initial source, your only source that was brought in not only intended to prove me wrong but also claim my entire "research methodology" was incorrect as well as "almost everything" I stated prior. However, your source totally contradicts itself, lacks logic & undeniable physical features that define it as the Malaysian Mig-29N. You were simply caught flatfooted thinking I have no idea what the Malaysian variant consists of & why. As if this picture is somehow bulletproof?? though there is not a single relation in it to the R-77 or the SD upgrade other than what?? That it's definitely a Mig-29 airframe?

Your research methodology is flawed. You have formed several opinions about N019M radar based on little evidence from outdated sources, then invented additional assertions why it has to be true with no obvious basis in reality. There is no reason why RVV-AE compatibility needs a slotted array radar. There is no reason why a cassegrain antenna should be unusable for TWS or unable to support shooting at multiple targets. You seem to be forming evidence to support your theory, not forming a theory that supports the evidence.

I doubt than N019M has a slotted array. I can't be certain on this point as no reliable source definitively states the antenna type, and I haven't found a photo yet. I am happy to change my mind if you ever find some evidence. The default position must be, given no reliable source, including later books by Yefim Gordon, claim it had a new antenna, while mentioning other changes it did have, that it didn't have a new antenna. Its on you to prove that it it does. I am happy to keep looking through my sources too.

 

[F-2]

N001VEP has TWS, not a slotted array
https://www.secretprojects.co.uk/attachments/img_0138-jpeg.708441/

 

[Aeria Gloria]

N001VEP has TWS, not a slotted array
https://www.secretprojects.co.uk/attachments/img_0138-jpeg.708441/

What??? I wonder if they added a TWS switch into the Flankers with it, as Su-27 and original N-001 does not have a TWS mode like N-019 and original MiG-29. I have someone trying to ask an old Flanker pilot for me if the TWS function was somehow automatic or tied to another switch.

Of course VEP is quite updated and you need to do double launch of R-77 somehow, so I guess it’s expected, just wonder how they changed the man machine interfece from the original.

If the original 9.12 N-019 MiG-29 has a switch called TWS and its manual details a TWS mode, there should be no question that a slotted array is in no way required for such functions. I think Ziggy just has an anti cassegrain vendetta

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

The N019 and N001 both have SNP mode which is a (fairly crude) track-while-scan mode.

 

[Aeria Gloria]

The N019 and N001 both have SNP mode which is a (fairly crude) track-while-scan mode.

But that’s what I mean, from reading Su-27SK manuals, there is no “SNP” mode on original N-001. And there it’s certainly no switch with it inscribed like there is in MiG-29 cockpit

Along with SNP/TWS being mentioned to be used when flying without datalink or GCI support in MiG-29 manuals, makes me think it’s whole purpose there was to supplement the fact it only has only Lazur/Beryuza datalink. Whereas Su-27 has both of those and many other more advanced datalink protocols, thus SNP/TWS was not considered needed.

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

The immediate catalyst for development of the 9-13S, according to Mikoyan documentation, was the arrival of the F-16C and the especially the imminent arrival of AIM-120 (late 80s).

Interesting, can you share this "MiG document"?

Yeah.... so check it out.

September 1991, Aim-120 was only Initial Operational Capability for the AMRAAM on F-15. The F-16 followed in January 1992....and the Navy in October 1993.... Full-rate production of the missile was approved in April 1992....

Mikoyan was literally doing airshows tours here in the US & Canada 1990-91, test pilot Roman Taskayev (do remember the name because it gets good) was doing Cobra for Americans before the Aim-120 ever came to F-16. Production of the missile was not even cleared yet. The 9-13S was already in full rate production. A dozen had already entered service. Counting only brand-new aircraft not counting upgrades to existing 9-12/13.

Your research methodology is flawed. You have formed several opinions about N019M radar based on little evidence from outdated sources, then invented additional assertions why it has to be true with no obvious basis in reality.

You can say this, but it means nothing. You have yet to post ANYTHING of value I cannot tear apart the second you throw it out there. Any "source" you do post is translated by you and still conflict entirely with your premise.

Malaysia bought the MiG-29SD version, not the vanilla MiG-29. The airframes were delivered in a partially upgraded state, and the final elements (radar, refuelling probe) were added in Malaysia later.

This is irrelevant.
The final elements??????? Later??

You mean the entire SD upgrade happened after that photo was taken?

Then why did you ping me saying the following:

Here's a Malaysian MiG-29SD being loaded for delivery. It featured an N019EM radar with RVV-AE compatibility. Its definitely got a twist-cassegrain antenna at this time.

You just go with whatever huh? Whatever narrative is convenient, right?

So, you were incorrect then and you are now. That was never an SD. it is merely the original Mig-29N prior to any upgrade giving it S or D capability.
Look, man. This is a waste of time. Like every other guy they end up bringing me a picture of a N019 Rubin and swear by God it's a Topaz. Then they do exactly what you do now & try to walk it back.

I am not mad at you.. I am just disappointed, ok?

Let me teach you a little more about the MiG-29...
Malaysia did not order SD from the beginning. That is a made-up assumption based on total lack of research, but dedicated effort to save face for some fans and waste my time.

The SD did not even exist when the Mig-29N was purchased.
Malaysia purchased the MiG-29N first & foremost. That is NOT a picture of the SD, not a picture of the Topaz, not a picture of a Mig-29 capable of equipping R-77.

Malaysia had 16 MiG-29N and two MiG-29UB delivered in 1995.

Remember our beloved MiG test pilot???? Roman Taskayev? well..
"The MiG-29SD was launched on 16 November 1995 and completed in January 1996. It was conducted by test pilot Roman Taskayev.

Malayasia requested it for their MiG-29N becoming the first client. How was the Mig-29N called a SD if it was in service with the Malaysians before was ever asked, tested and offered as a serial modernization package option?

Do you have an any idea what D means in SD? means дозаправка..... dozapravka......refueling.

Do you see a D upgrade in this photo you shared of a Mig-29? There is no D because it was prior to upgrade.

How about S in the picture? You just tried to walk it back and say it happened later... Which is it? You think that radar is a Topaz? Its not, you sent me a photo of a N019 Rubin.


"In 1998-1999, a joint Russian-Malaysian venture has already modernized the delivered aircraft, equipping them with an improved radar station, a telescopic nozzle for in-flight refueling, and increased fuel tank capacity. The armament has been supplemented with the R-77."

our evidence is solely in some old sources which seem to have been confused between N019M and N010 Zhuk

I am not the one who sent in a picture of a N019 Rubin & claimed was SD with R-77 capability being loaded for delivery to Malasia...

 

[ZIGGY-2014]

My understanding was that of the 30 or so MiG-29S, Sudan, Myanmar and Peru bought them to the export modified SE standard?

 

[lancer21]

Hey ZIGGY, always like a good discussion on subject of interests such as this, but please drop this arrogant demeanour of yours ("let me teach you...?"...tear apart the second you throw it out...?"). If you have a technical argument to make you can do it without resorting to such grandstanding. This is getting tiresome and cluttering what is an interesting topic.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Malaysia did not order SD from the beginning. That is a made-up assumption based on total lack of research, but dedicated effort to save face for some fans and waste my time.

This is getting a long way off topic, and you seem determined to keep going. This is from the MiG - Flying Through Time book, written from OKB archival records.

Миг-29СД (9-12СД) был сделан по заказу Королевских ВВС Малайзии в начале 1990-х, и впервые в отечественной практике его создавали согласно требованиям заказчика, а не пытались продать стандартный для советских времён упрощённый вариант «Б». На нём установили систему дозаправки топливом в полёте. Для её отработки переоборудовали серийный МиГ-29 (9-12S)
№ 4808, и 16 ноября 1995 года РП. Таскаев выполнил первую дозаправку в небе от танкера Ил-78. А 1 февраля следующего года Роман Петрович на этой машине с четырьмя ракетами Р-73 и тремя подвесными баками впервые для МиГ-29 провёл в воздухе 4 часа 3 минуты. За это время он осуществил две дозаправки топливом в полёте, а после посадки в баках оставалось 60% горючего.

На малайзийский вариант, получивший у заказчика название Миг-29N установили целый ряд новых систем западного производства для взаимо действия с существующей в стране инфраструктурой.

БРЛС Н019ЭМ «Топаз» обеспечила применение на самолёте ракет РВВ-АЕ.

Под реализацию малайзийского контракта в 1994 году МАПО получило правительственную лицензию на самостоятельное осуществление внешнеэкономической деятельности. Напомним, что в советское время иностранные заказчики получали вооружение и военную технику через Главное инженерное управление (ГИУ) и Главное техническое управление (ГТУ) Государственного комитета по внешнеэкономическим связям (ГКЭС), на базе которого впоследствии сложилась компания-посредник «Росвооружение». Как показало время, право на самостоятельное военно-техническое сотрудничество (ВТС) сыграло важную роль в судьбе фирмы. Для 1994 года, когда ещё были памятны советские принципы поставок вооружений в основном в социалистические либо дружественные страны, контракт на поставку 16 самолётов Миг-29СД и двух МиГ-29УБ на нетрадиционный рынок рассматривался как прорыв в новую эпоху. Он был весьма выгоден с финансовой точки зрения и обещал существенные имиджевые дивиденды.
Практически в это же время был подписан контракт на допоставку МиГ-29 в Индию, которая, кстати, получила эти машины в начале 1980-х — даже раньше стран Организации Варшавского договора. В СССР Индия рассматривалась как важнейший стратегический партнёр с давней ориентацией на советскую военную технику, в этой стране готовилось лицензионное производство МиГ-29. Но контракт с Малайзией, никогда не фигурировавшей в планах ГИУ и ГТУ, стал настоящим фурором для мировой системы торговли оружием!
К сожалению, у этой медали была и оборотная сторона. В тогдашнем руководстве МАПО возобладало мнение, что после Малайзии оно «завоюет» Таиланд и другие страны Юго-Восточной Азии, а потому Индия и Китай были широким жестом отданы «суховцам», у которых до того времени экспорта в эти страны не было вообще, а зарубежные поставки исчерпывались несколькими соцстранами. «Миги» же летали в
50 странах мира!
Выполнение малайзийского контракта существенно поддержало в те трудные годы МАПО «МИГ», которое образовалось в мае 1995 года путём присоединения к МАПО знаменитого ОКБ имени А.И. Микояна на правах структурного подразделения. Самолёты МиГ-29СД высоко оценили Королевские ВВС Малайзии. Однако дальнейшая экспансия на нетрадиционные рынки у МАПО «МИГ» не сложилась, да и госзаказа на новые машины не поступило. И тогда начались трудные времена.
С огромными усилиями удалось создать модификацию МигГ-29СМ (9-13СМ), в которой сохранялись все усовершенствования, уже реализованные на МиГ-29С, и расширялась номенклатура средств поражения за счёт высокоточного оружия класса «воздух—поверхность»
управляемых ракет Х-29Т и корректируемых авиабомб КАБ-500Кр с телевизионными головками самонаведения. В состав СУВ истребителя включили телевизионный канал, обеспечивающий отображение на индикаторе в кабине «картинки» местности, просматриваемой ГСН. Задав целеуказание ракете, лётчик мог выходить из атаки — все процессы наведения выполнялись автоматически, то есть был реализован принцип «пустил-забыл». ля обеспечения работ по программе создания Миг-29СМ переоборудовали уже известные нам две машины № 404 и № 405. Испытания были успешно завершены в 1996 году, и заказчик подписал положительное заключение, рекомендовав произвести соответствующую доработку строевых самолётов. Но по ряду причин до модернизации строевых машин дело так и не дошло. Зарубежная премьера МиГ-29СМ состоялась на авиасалоне в Ле-Бурже в июне 1995 года. В следующем году его показали на международной выставке в Берлине, ав 1997 году — вновь в Ле-Бур-же. В 1998 году завершились испытания МиГ-29СМ дооснащённого управляемыми ракетами Х-31П класса «воздух-РЛС».

Which Google Translate (minor edits by me(=( gives as:

MiG-29SD (9-12SD) was made by order of the Royal Air Force of Malaysia in the early 1990s, and for the first time in domestic practice it was created in accordance with the requirements of the customer, and did not try to sell the simplified version “B” for Soviet times. It installed a refueling system for fuel in the flight. For its development, the serial MiG-29 (9-12S) No. 4808 was re-equipped, and on November 16, 1995, the rp. Taskaev completed the first refueling in the sky from the Il-78 tanker. And on February 1 of the next year, Roman Petrovich on this machine with four R-73 missiles and three suspended tanks for the first time for MiG-29 spent 4 hours 3 minutes in the air. During this time, he carried out two refueling fuel in flight, and after landing in the tanks there was 60% fuel.

On the Malaysian version, which received the name MiG-29N from the customer, a number of new Western systems were installed for mutual action with the existing infrastructure in the country. BRLS H019EM Topaz ensured the use of RVV-Ae missiles on the aircraft.

Under the implementation of the Malaysian contract in 1994, MAPO received a government license to independently carry out foreign economic activity. Recall that in Soviet times, foreign customers received weapons and military equipment through the Main Engineering Directorate (GIU) and the main technical department (GTU) of the State Committee on Foreign Economic Relations (GKES), on the basis of which the mediator of the “Rosoboronexport” was subsequently formed. As time has shown, the right to independent military-technical cooperation (VTS) played an important role in the fate of the company. For 1994, when the Soviet principles of arms supplies were still memorable to socialist or friendly countries, a contract for the supply of 16 MiG-29SD aircraft and two MiG-29UBs to an unconventional market was considered a breakthrough in a new era. He was very beneficial from a financial point of view and promised significant image dividends.

Almost at the same time, a contract was signed for the MiG-29 delivery to India, which, incidentally, received these cars in the early 1980s-even earlier than the countries of the Warsaw Treaty. In the USSR, India was seen as the most important strategic partner with a long-standing orientation towards Soviet military equipment; MiG-29 licensed production was being prepared in this country. But the contract with Malaysia, which has never appeared in the plans of GIU and GTU, has become a real splash for the global weapon trading system!

Unfortunately, this medal had a flip side. In the then management of MAPO, the opinion was prevailed that after Malaysia it would “conquer” Thailand and other countries of Southeast Asia, and therefore India and China were given a wide gesture to the “Sukhovites”, which had not been to these countries at all, and foreign supplies were exhausted by several social sketches. "MiGs" flew to 50 countries of the world!

The fulfillment of the Malaysian contract was significantly supported in those difficult years of MAPO MIG, which was formed in May 1995 by joining the MAPO of the famous OKB named after A.I. Mikoyan on the rights of the structural unit. The Royal Malaysian Air Force praised The MiG-29SD aircraft. However, the further expansion of non -traditional markets at the MIG MIG did not work out, and the state order was not received by new cars. And then difficult times began.

With great efforts, it was possible to create a modification of the MIG-29SM (9-13SM), which preserved all the improvements already implemented on the MiG-29S, and the nomenclature of the armament of the “Air-Surface” class expanded was expanded.

Controlled K-29T missiles and adjustable Kab-500KR air bombs with television homing heads. A television channel was included in the fighter SUV, which provides a display on the indicator in the cabin of the “Pictures” of the area viewed by the GSN. Having set the target designation of the rocket, the pilot could get out of the attack-all the guidance processes were carried out automatically, that is, the principle of “launched and got” was implemented. The provision of work on the program for the creation of the MiG-29SM was converted by the two cars No. 404 and No. 405 already known to us. The tests were successfully completed in 1996, and the customer signed a positive conclusion, recommending to make appropriate modification of combat aircraft. But for a number of reasons, it never came to the modernization of combat vehicles. The foreign premiere of the MiG-29SM took place at the Le Bourget air show in June 1995. The following year it was shown at an international exhibition in Berlin, AB 1997- again in Le Bourget. In 1998, the tests of the MiG-29SM armed by the antiradar class guided missiles of the X-31P.

 

[lancer21]

Has there been any cockpit shots of the MiG-29N and MiG-29SM? I saw a brief video apparently showing the SM cockpit and the display seemed to be different, showing TV imagery from the TV guided missiles.
Also, aren't the later slovak upgraded MiG-29s called SD by russian sources (AS in Slovakia), featuring new HUD and MFD? Has the MiG-29N received the same mods?

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

As I read it, the MiG-29SM upgrade was tested but never got produced, and attention switched to the SMT (9.17), first of his name. Its unclear who the "customer" is, it might have been Malaysia.

 

[F-2]

As I read it, the MiG-29SM upgrade was tested but never got produced, and attention switched to the SMT (9.17), first of his name. Its unclear who the "customer" is, it might have been Malaysia.

I was under the impression the Serbian and Syrian jets were SM? and Peru’s SMP is more similar to the SM then SMT (has a n019 derivative)

 

[Squirrel]

correct, this model was updated with Topaz, N019ME

In fact, MiG-29SM has N019M1 ( hardware from the N019M Topaz ,software from the N010 Zhuk).

 

[Squirrel]

I was under the impression the Serbian and Syrian jets were SM? and Peru’s SMP is more similar to the SM then SMT (has a n019 derivative)

Yes ,Serbian SM's are 9.12SM/9.13SM ,Syrian are only 9.12SM with N019M1.

 

[Squirrel]

Has there been any cockpit shots of the MiG-29N and MiG-29SM? I saw a brief video apparently showing the SM cockpit and the display seemed to be different, showing TV imagery from the TV guided missiles.
Also, aren't the later slovak upgraded MiG-29s called SD by russian sources (AS in Slovakia), featuring new HUD and MFD? Has the MiG-29N received the same mods?

This is the video made at the Le Bourget 1995 with MiG-29SM/9.13SM. We can see TV-guided Kh-29T and the sequencies on the IPV-1 CRT made by the 'Tubus-2' TV homing head.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8UfVIZEwxU


This was the first 9.13SM from the middle of the 90's and has nothing to do with the newer 9.12SM/9.13SM with N019M1, MFI-54 LCD/MFD instead of the old CRT IPV-1 and with the SPO-32 L150-29 Pastel RWR instead of the old SPO-15LM Beryoza.

 

[Squirrel]

Peru very likely had some modifications that allowed r77. As I understand it though it’s a farther strange saga how they got the jets. This is long before MiG-29smp.

In 1998 ,Peru bought three MiG-29SE ( 9.13SE) as export version of the MiG-29S with N019ME 'Topaz-E'. With that radar, it was possible to use R-77E ( Izdeliye 190).