What You Need to Know: Developed in the late 1960s to counter U.S. aircraft like the F-4 Phantom II and the F-105 Thunderchief, the Soviet Mikoyan MiG-23 "Flogger" was designed to succeed the widely used MiG-21. It offered greater payload, range, and beyond-visual-range interception capabilities, featuring advanced radar and a variable swing-wing geometry similar to the F-111 Aardvark.

-Despite its promising design, the MiG-23 had issues with handling and maintenance, leading to a poor reputation and combat record.

-Over 5,000 units were produced, and while it was eventually retired by Russia in 1999, it remains in service with countries like Angola, Ethiopia, North Korea, and Syria.

Developed in the late 1960s in response to the United States military’s McDonnell-Douglas F-4 Phantom II and Republic F-105 Thunderchief, the Mikoyan MiG-23 (NATO reporting name “Flogger”) succeeded the widely-used MiG-21.

It offered a greater payload, range, and firepower with beyond visual range intercept capability from more powerful onboard sensors. The Model 23-11 prototype first flew in 1967, and production commenced just two years later.

Compared to the MiG-21, the Flogger had great promise – its advanced radar and fire control system........

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