Russian Navy to buy MiG-29K fighters for Admiral Kuznetsov carrier
18.01.2010 In 2010 Russian Navy intends to purchase first parcel of deck-based fighters MiG-29K which will be based on aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov, informs RIA Novosti referring to representative of Naval Aviation HQ. However, the source did not specify the number of aircrafts.
It is expected that Russian Navy will buy 24 MiG-29K fighters in the nearest 3-4 years. Within a few years, MiG-29 and Su-33 aircrafts will be the basis of Russia's deck-based fighter aviation, said the interviewee. Operating life of Su-33 fighters which are currently in service of naval aviation will be expired in 2015; however, it is planned to be prolonged up to 2025.
Deck-based fighters MiG-29K were tested late Sept 2009 on heavy aircraft carrying cruiser Admiral Kuznetsov. It was reported that MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB carried out several deck landings and takeoffs from the carrier anchored at the Barents Sea.
MiG-29K is a multirole fighter of 4++ generation capable to be based on aircraft carriers with displacement over 28,000 tonnes. Among other features are folding wing, low signature and increased fuel capacity. The fighter's max speed is 2,400 kph and operational range is up to 1,500 km.
The armament is 30-mm gun; besides, MiG-29K has seven stations for air-to-air missiles, anti-ship and anti-radar missiles, and guided air bombs.