
Once heralded as a modern marvel of Russian aviation, the MiG-35 has faced a reality check as it languishes without export success or the anticipated production levels.

Initially planned to roll out thirty-seven units, the Russian Air Force has managed only six of its touted fifth-generation MiG-35 Fulcrum-F fighter jets, displaying them at the 2022 China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition.

However, no foreign clients have been secured, contrasting starkly with the American F-35 Lightning II, which boasts superior engine power and stealth capabilities.

Despite the Kremlin’s claims, the MiG-35, marketed as a “4+++ generation fighter,” has faced underwhelming performance issues, particularly with radar and engines, compounded by a hefty price tag. These factors have stymied any potential export market, leaving Russia as the sole operator of this aircraft.

Moreover, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has diverted financial resources, further diminishing the likelihood of ramping up production or exports.

The MiG-35’s touted advanced features include the Zhuk-MA active electronically scanned array radar, purported to enhance target detection range significantly. Additionally, the platform’s diverse payload capacity, with nine hardpoints for various armaments, paints a picture of a formidable air superiority fighter.

However, the Russian jet’s actual capabilities remain doubtful, particularly in the face of the Ukrainian Air Force’s impending acquisition of F-16 Fighting Falcons from Western allies.

The F-16, a time-tested multi-role fighter jet known for its versatility and maneuverability, is expected to bolster Ukraine’s capabilities in countering Russian air power.

Ukrainian pilots have already started training on these jets, with the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, stating a need for 120 to 130 warplanes to achieve parity with Moscow.

While the MiG-35 features a top speed of approximately Mach 2.25 and is equipped with advanced avionics, including a Helmet-Mounted Display System, the lack of combat experience and the pressing financial constraints raise questions about its future utility. The Russian jet is designed to defend the vast Russian airspace but has not seen extensive operational use or combat testing.

In contrast, the F-16 is not only a combat-proven aircraft but also boasts a modern avionics package, including an advanced AN/APG-83 SABR AESA radar. With a combat radius of approximately 550 kilometers and the ability to carry up to 7,700 kilograms of ordnance, the F-16 is set to be a game-changer for the Ukrainian Air Force.

As Moscow pours its military resources into the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, the future of the MiG-35 remains uncertain. The Russian Air Force continues to operate these jets despite their unfulfilled potential and the absence of a combat record.

The promise of the MiG-35 as a technologically advanced and affordable fighter jet for countries looking to upgrade their air forces has not materialized, leaving its destiny to be written in the backdrop of a conflict that has drained the resources needed to bring this aircraft to its full potential.

The stark contrast between Russia’s stalled MiG-35 program and Ukraine’s incoming F-16s is a telling reflection of the ongoing geopolitical and military shifts in the region.

While the MiG-35 was designed to dominate the skies in high-intensity conflict zones, its shortcomings have become more apparent as Ukraine’s air capabilities receive a substantial boost from its allies. With the dynamic nature of military technology and geopolitics, the MiG-35 serves as a cautionary tale of how even the most promising fighter jets can fall short of expectations amidst the complex realities of modern warfare.
Relevant articles:
– Russia’s MiG-35 Fighter Nightmare Is Beyond Fixing Now, The National Interest
– Russia’s MiG-35 Fighter Is Destined to Become a Nightmare Failure, The National Interest
– Russia’s MiG-35 Fighter Is Destined to Become a Nightmare Failure, The National Interest
– Russian MiG-35: How Fighter Jet Compares To Ukraine’s Incoming F-16s, Newsweek