Difference between revisions of "MiG-23MLD"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Ground Breaking"]].
+
In the dawn of the 1980s, the refinements to the MiG-23 airframe in the [[MiG-23ML]] and [[MiG-23MLA (Germany)|MLA]] variants were deemed "still insufficient" and too difficult to use in combat against the latest 4th generation aircraft (as demonstrated in combat in the Middle East and Africa). As a result, until the (then) early [[MiG-29]] could have its early production issues ironed out, an "ultimate" refinement of the MiG-23 was ordered, based on the upgrades applied to the ML and MLA variants previously and incorporating new technology from the then new MiG-29. The new plane had a complete overhaul to not only its avionics, but the airframe as well. The airframe was lightened even further over the ML "lightweight" variant, the wings were upgraded to the new strengthened "Type 4" wing with the "dogtooth" wing root for increased AoA at higher speeds, and were also given new slats and vortex generators to increase low speed performance. And to top off the flight performance upgrades, the powerful R-35F-300 engine providing extra thrust over older MiG-23 models was installed. The radar was replaced with the brand new N-008 (Sapphire-23MLA-II) radar, featuring electronic countermeasure resistance, vertical scan "dogfight" modes, Track-While-Scan capability, and far greater range over previous Sapphire-23 models. The avionics suite was completely overhauled with new smaller and lighter electronics, including new GCI and autopilot systems, multiple new new safety systems, and most importantly, the major upgrade from the previous SPO-10 RWR to the new SPO-15L "Breyoza" RWR system from the MiG-29. The reinforcement and lightening of the airframe resulted in the MiG-23MLD, when in the hands of experienced pilots in Maryi airbase (the Soviet equivalant to the American "Top Gun" aggressor training school) being able to beat even the new MiG-29 regularly in hit-and-run dogfights. Almost all MLDs were rebuilt from older ML and MLA aircraft, with the exception being the 62 export MLDs sold to Bulgaria (12) and Syria (50), being the last brand new single-seat MiG-23 airframes to roll off the production line.
 +
 
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Ground Breaking"]], is the ultimate culmination of the [[MiG-23 (Family)|Flogger family]] of aircraft. Building upon everything learned from the previous MiG-23 variants, this plane not only refines all of it to near perfection, but also introduces new gameplay elements that are required before advancing to the formidable MiG-29 that follows it in the tech tree. The lightened and strengthened airframe plus the increased engine power over its predecessor, the MiG-23M, will be instantly noticable as they provide a major advantage during manoeuvring, allowing the MLD to dogfight almost every 3rd generation fighter it faces, and some heavier 4th generation aircraft too. The aircraft is no slouch in relying on its weapons systems either, being outfitted with a generous amount of [[R-60M]] all aspect missiles in addition ot the potent [[R-24R]]/[[R-24T|T]] missiles, a strong radar system, and a IRST targeting set. Manoeuvrability is exponentially increased over the previous [[MiG-23M]] with the replacement of the SPO-10 with a SPO-15L RWR from a MiG-29, and the addition of BDS-50-60 countermeasure dispensers increasing the amount of countermeasures you can take by six times. All in all, the MiG-23 is a very easy plane to learn and use, but a difficult one to master, as the player is forced to learn about enemy aircraft he faces, and decide accordingly for each engagement whether he needs to utilize the aircraft's great flight performance in a dogfight or employ its strong weapons systems in hit-and-run tactics, a very important note as the skill of picking your engagements and how to fight them is a important skill you will need for the succeeding aircraft in the tech tree, the venerable [[MiG-29]].
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 17: Line 19:
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
 
 +
The MiG-23MLD's performance leaves little to be desired. The MiG-23M boasted a high top speed but was somewhat underpowered; this is very much fixed on the MLD because its engine is 20% more powerful, and as a result its thrust-to-weight ratio practically matches the [[F-104S]] and [[MiG-21bis]]. It has an excellent climb rate exceeding 200 m/s at sea level and fantastic acceleration, particularly at transonic or supersonic speeds when the wings can be swept back. Thus, the MLD will have few issues rushing to the front lines, climbing for an altitude advantage, or chasing down a fleeing opponent.
 +
 
 +
The MLD is also very competitive in dogfights. As on the MiG-23M, the swing wings fundamentally allow for good sustained turning at low to medium speeds provided the wings are swept forward. The MLD's vortex generators, dogtoothed wing gloves, and superior thrust-to-weight enhance its turning performance further. It can reliably beat any [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom]] in a turning engagement, and it can at the very least keep up with if not outplay agile opponents like the [[MiG-21bis]] and [[JA37C]].
 +
 
 +
There are a few quirks to watch out for. First, the MiG-23MLD's excellent engine power means that it will quite easily reach its rip speed when flying in a straight line on full afterburner, so be mindful of the IAS. Second, though it has great acceleration and climb rate at transonic and supersonic speeds, the manoeuvrability in these zones can be a bit sluggish or wobbly at times, so keep that in mind when trying to score high-speed snapshots, and in situations requiring turning or precise aim it's best to slow down and allow the wings to sweep forward a bit.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| 2,333 || 2,320 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.5 || 35.9 || 193.9 || 186 || rowspan="2" | 750
+
| 2,333 || 2,320 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 33.5 || 33.9 || 193.9 || 186.0 || rowspan="2" | 750
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| 2,496 || 2,357 || 34.6 || 35.0 || 247.9 || 219.6
+
| 2,498 || 2,358 || 32.6 || 33.0 || 248.3 || 220.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
|-
 
|-
−
| _ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || _ || ✓
+
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓     <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="60%"
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
 
|-
 
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Limits
 
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 1,470<!--{{Specs|destruction|body}}--> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 520 || 500 || ~13 || ~5
+
! Min sweep
 +
| 1,330 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~10 || ~4
 +
|-
 +
! Max sweep
 +
| 1,470 || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~11 || ~4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 69: Line 79:
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || N/A
+
| < 665 || < 650 || < 700 || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine
 
! colspan="3" | Engine
−
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
+
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
−
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
+
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
|-
 
|-
 
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-35-300 || 1
 
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-35-300 || 1
−
| colspan="2" | 10,812 kg || colspan="2" | 389 - 425 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
+
| colspan="2" | 10,705 kg || colspan="3" | 374 - 422 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
−
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
+
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
−
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 31m fuel
+
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 31m fuel
 
|-
 
|-
 
| 1,760 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
 
| 1,760 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
−
| 11,922 kg || 13,128 kg || 14,512 kg || 17,800 kg
+
| 11,815 kg || 13,020 kg || 14,178 kg || 14,405 kg || 17,800 kg
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
 
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
−
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
+
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Condition || 100% || WEP
 
! Condition || 100% || WEP
−
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel|| 31m fuel || MTOW
+
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 31m fuel || MTOW
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Stationary'' || 6,983 kgf ||10,138 kgf
+
| ''Stationary'' || 7,103 kgf || 10,305 kgf
−
| 0.85 || 0.77 || 0.70 || 0.57
+
| 0.87 || 0.79 || 0.73 || 0.72 || 0.58
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Optimal'' || 8,397 kgf<br>(1,400 km/h) || 15,647 kgf<br>(1,400 km/h)
+
| ''Optimal'' || 8,368 kgf<br>(1,400 km/h) || 15,787 kgf<br>(1,400 km/h)
−
| 1.31 || 1.19 || 1.08 || 0.88
+
| 1.34 || 1.21 || 1.11 || 1.10 || 0.89
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* A choice between two presets:
+
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
−
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
+
* 60 x large calibre countermeasures
−
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 72 x countermeasures
+
 
 +
The MiG-23MLD still retains the 23 mm GSh-23L cannon with 200 rounds from the MiG-23M. It has an excellent rate of fire and will likely do significant damage if it hits a target, but the muzzle velocity is unimpressive and it can be a challenge to aim it properly in high speed engagements. It's generally best to reserve the gun for extended dogfights where the MLD can use its manoeuvrability to pull lead on a slower target. The limited ammunition supply means that the average pilot can only expect a kill or two with the gun before needing to go back to base.
 +
 
 +
The MLD has a far healthier supply of countermeasures than the MiG-23M. It retains the pack of 12 countermeasures installed in the central underbelly pylon but now features the twin 30-round dispensers installed on the wing gloves, first seen on the [[MiG-27M]]. There is no need to be as stingy when flaring incoming IR missiles or using chaff to disrupt a radar lock. Also, these are still "large calibre countermeasures", so on a unit basis they have stronger effects than standard flares or chaff.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)}}
 
−
{{main|Kh-23M|S-5K|S-8KO|S-24B|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}
 
−
{{main|R-3S|R-23R|R-23T|R-24R|R-24T}}
 
−
{{main|R-60|R-13M1}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
* Without load
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
−
* 2 x R-3S missiles
+
|-
−
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
+
! !! width="9%" | 1 !! width="9%" | 2 !! width="9%" | 3 !! width="9%" | 4 !! width="9%" | 5
−
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,300 kg total)
+
| rowspan="19" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-23MLA_(Germany).png]]</div>
−
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (800 kg total)
+
|-
−
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (800 kg total)
+
! [[GSh-23L (23 mm)|23 mm GSh-23L]] cannons (250 rpg)
−
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (800 kg total)
+
| 1 || || || || 1
−
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (800 kg total)
+
|-
−
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
+
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
−
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (500 kg total)
+
| 4 || 4<sup>†</sup> || || 4<sup>†</sup> || 4
−
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (500 kg total)
+
|-
−
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (500 kg total)
+
! [[FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|250 kg FAB-250M-62]] bombs
−
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (500 kg total)
+
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
−
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 64 x S-5K rockets (500 kg total)
+
|-
−
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
+
! [[FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500M-62]] bombs
−
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
+
| 1 || || || || 1
−
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
+
|-
−
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
+
! [[ZB-500 incendiary]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[S-5K]] rockets
 +
| 16, 32 || 16 || || 16 || 16, 32
 +
|-
 +
! [[S-8KO]] rockets
 +
| 20 || || || || 20
 +
|-
 +
! [[S-24B]] rockets
 +
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[Kh-23M]] missiles
 +
| 1* || || || || 1*
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-13M1]] missiles
 +
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-23R]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-23T]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-24R]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-24T]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-60M]] missiles
 +
| 1 || 2 || || 2 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! Large calibre countermeasures
 +
| || || 12 || ||
 +
|-
 +
! Delta-NG targeting pod
 +
| || 1* || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! 820 l drop tanks
 +
| || || 1<sup>†</sup> || ||
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="7" | * It is required to equip the Delta-NG targeting pod with the Kh-23M missiles <br> <sup>†</sup> The drop tank cannot be equipped in conjunction with quad bombs on adjacent hardpoints
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 
 +
* 1 x 820 l drop tank
 +
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles
 +
* 12 x large calibre countermeasures
 
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
 
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
−
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
+
* 6 x R-60M missiles
−
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
 
−
* 6 x R-60 missiles
 
 
* 2 x R-23R missiles
 
* 2 x R-23R missiles
 
* 2 x R-23T missiles
 
* 2 x R-23T missiles
−
* 96 x S-5K rockets
+
* 2 x R-24R missiles
 +
* 2 x R-24T missiles
 +
* 64 x S-5K rockets
 +
* 64 x S-5K rockets
 +
* 40 x S-8KO rockets
 
* 4 x S-24B rockets
 
* 4 x S-24B rockets
 
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
 
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
−
* 40 x S-8KO rockets
+
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
−
* 40 x S-8KO rockets + 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (500 kg total)
+
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
−
* 2 x R-24R missiles
+
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
−
* 2 x R-24T missiles
+
* 2 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
−
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-24R missiles (800 kg total)
 
−
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-24T missiles (800 kg total)
 
−
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-24R missiles (500 kg total)
 
−
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-24T missiles (500 kg total)
 
−
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-24R missiles
 
−
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-24T missiles
 
−
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-24R missiles
 
−
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-24T missiles
 
 
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
 
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
−
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
+
{{Navigation-End}}
−
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x R-60 missiles
+
 
 +
The MiG-23MLD has similar loadouts to the MiG-23M. The main difference is that it has access to R-24R and R-24T missiles, which are straight upgrades to the R-23R and R-23T missiles. The R-24s are deadly missiles, but the MLD is still limited to carrying only two of them. The R-23s should only be used as stopgaps before the R-24s are unlocked.
 +
 
 +
For ground attack, the MLD can use various unguided bombs and rockets. The only guided air-to-ground option is the Kh-23M MCLOS missile. It does have a ballistic computer but it can only provide CCIP guidance for the guns/gun pods and rockets. As dedicated attackers, the related [[MiG-27M]] and [[MiG-27K]] are much better options.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
 
 +
The MiG-23MLD is a fairly forgiving fighter that can be used for many approaches. Players who want to beeline straight into battle and jump in dogfights will be satisfied by its great acceleration and dogfight performance. Those who prefer to hang back can use its climb rate to build up altitude and energy while observing the battle below. From this point, fans of long range combat can sling the R-24R radar-guided missiles to snipe targets at long range or low altitude, and opportunistic pilots can sneak in from the sidelines and use the IRST in conjunction with the R-24T IR missiles to eliminate distracted targets. The MiG-23MLD does not reign supreme in the pure beyond-visual-range role because it can only carry two R-24Rs compared to the four AIM-7E-2s or Skyflashes carried by the [[F-4EJ Kai Phantom II]] and [[Phantom FGR.2]] for example, so one should plan on getting close and dogfighting at some point to not let the MLD's full capabilities go to waste.
 +
 
 +
The R-24s should be used wisely because of their limited capacity. R-24Ts in particular are excellent for sneak attacks against distracted targets because of their range, manoeuvrability, and tracking, but they can still be spoofed by flares if the target sees it coming. The R-60Ms are more plentiful, which offsets their high flare sensitivity, and should be preferentially used in close combat. Ideally, one can wait until opponents have run out of countermeasures and/or are no longer in a good position to make evasive manoeuvres.
 +
 
 +
The MLD can pull harder than the MiG-23M because of its aerodynamic improvements, which is definitely good for nosing onto targets, but if optimal rate fighting performance is desired, it's best to keep the airspeed at or above 600 km/h by managing the elevator.
 +
 
 +
The MLD's radar now features an ACM mode to quickly and conveniently acquire targets in dogfight scenarios, which can be helpful if one needs to use the R-24R or desires radar cueing for the IR missiles.
 +
 
 +
;Fighting the [[F-14A Early]]
 +
 
 +
The [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] is a very capable and popular aircraft in the American tech tree. Facing against a F-14 will be inevitable for pilots of the {{PAGENAME}}. However, there are certain actions a {{PAGENAME}} pilot can take to make the encounter a more even fighting chance.
 +
 
 +
Firstly, a {{PAGENAME}} pilot should be familiar with how to defeat certain radar search and tracking ability. While flying low can help with defeating the standard searching radar, the F-14 like the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] before it is equipped with Pulse-Doppler (PD) radar. PD radar can enable the aircraft to lock onto other aircraft against the ground clutter. However, this can also be countered by "notching" the aircraft by flying perpendicular to the PD radar lock (as in making sure the PD radar lock in the Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) is at the 3 or 9 o'clock direction from the aircraft). This will interfere with the PD radar's ability to lock onto the {{PAGENAME}}. However, be aware that the {{PAGENAME}} is unlikely to be "invisible" to a F-14's radar as the F-14 has the ability to use a "Track-While-Scan" mode to identify enemy aircraft on the horizon. So while the {{PAGENAME}} pilot can deny the F-14 an easy lock for them to utilize a SARH or ARH missile, they will be aware that the {{PAGENAME}} is present in that general direction.
 +
 
 +
Once a F-14 has been identified, three different threat envelopes need to be recognized.
 +
 
 +
# AIM-54 Phoenix: Perhaps the aircraft's most famous armament, the F-14's Phoenix missiles are unique in their extremely long firing range of tens of kilometers away. However, do not be discouraged! There are many limitations with missile that can be exploited to reduce the chance of a hit. First is that if fired at a long-range, the Phoenix missile can be identified by its long smoke trail from the F-14 aircraft. This allows not only a {{PAGENAME}} pilot to recognize a F-14 is present, but also perform evasive maneuvers. The second is that from a long-range firing, the Phoenix are not utilizing its "active-radar homing" (ARH) abilities and is instead utilizing inertial navigation at its launch. This means the missile is not actively tracking the aircraft, but simply homing towards the general direction of the {{PAGENAME}}'s vector and once within range, will activate its radar for the active homing towards the final target. This means that until the active radar homing is on, the {{PAGENAME}} can evade and escape where the missile will think the {{PAGENAME}} will be. If successful and once the Phoenix turns on its radar, it will not be able to locate the {{PAGENAME}} and therefore not be able to home in. If the Phoenix does end up targeting right at the {{PAGENAME}}, a copious amount of chaff and maneuverability should be sufficient to perform an evasion against the missile's final run.
 +
# AIM-7F Sparrow: A familiar missile that {{PAGENAME}} will know fighting against F-4Js, the AIM-7F is more lethal with the F-14 as the aircraft can carry more and has a more capable radar. In fact, it can be argued the Sparrow is a comparatively underrated weapon in the pylons of a F-14 due to the aircraft's capabilities enhancing the missile's own. By the time the F-14 is within optimum range to use the Sparrow, there is often very little time for the {{PAGENAME}} to perform the right action to evade the missile, especially during a head-on. A F-14 using a Sparrow less than 10 km away will be more dangerous than a F-14 using a Phoenix from 40 km away. Take extreme caution against F-14 pilots that bring Sparrows over the Phoenixes.
 +
# AIM-9 Sidewinders: A very familiar missile all close-range dogfighters are familiar with. The F-14 has access to a wide variety of Sidewinder missiles, but its most lethal is the AIM-9H. Once again, though the missile's capability is not too dramatically different from past Sidewinders like the AIM-9G from the F-4J, the F-14's capabilities especially in slow maneuverability makes the Sidewinder a concerning weapon against even a unswept wing {{PAGENAME}}. While flares should be sufficient in interfering with a Sidewinder lock, maneuverability and engine management needs to be accounted so the Sidewinder still does not see the after-burning engine as a more enticing target than the flares.
 +
 
 +
So now that the F-14's capabilities are familiarized with, how should a {{PAGENAME}} pilot attack a F-14?
 +
 
 +
Perhaps the most successful way is to go after tunnel-vision F-14 pilots from medium range. F-14 pilots at any altitude would be concerned about using their radar to engage enemies with long-range missiles. Therefore, a {{PAGENAME}} would find it productive to instead fly towards the sides of the map, away from the straight path towards the enemy airfield. The loadout to bring would be the IR-guided R-24T and pilot's choice of R-13M1 or R-60Ms for the short-range IR missiles. Once a decent distance from the friendly airfield alongside the sides of the map (position roughly 30-40% between friendly airfield to enemy airfield), make sure there are no enemy aircraft also in the area before turning towards the center of the map, this way you can meet enemy F-14's vector perpendicularly for an optimum attack angle.
 +
 
 +
Utilize the {{PAGENAME}}'s IRST function instead of the standard radar in order to not trigger the F-14's RWR, and use IRST to lock onto F-14s from a long-distance for the R-24T. Once a lock can be acquired, utilize the R-24T's extremely wide uncaged seeker to compensate the lead for the F-14's speed and direction. Once within an optimum distance (roughly 5 km), fire the R-24T towards the F-14. While it may be tempting to watch the R-24T seek its target, the {{PAGENAME}} pilot should instead disengage and try and locate another target for its other missile. It is up to luck at this point and the F-14 pilot's awareness if they notice the incoming R-24T before it destroys their aircraft.
 +
 
 +
If the F-14 notices the {{PAGENAME}} and its missile, the situation will quickly get out of hand as the F-14 has decent countermeasures to throw off the {{PAGENAME}}'s IR missiles. Once a F-14 is aware of the {{PAGENAME}} position at its sides or rear, additional missiles may prove fruitless as the enemy pilot would have their countermeasures primed and ready. The {{PAGENAME}} pilot can now only hope that the F-14 is too pre-occupied at the tailing {{PAGENAME}} that allies can approach and take out the distracted F-14 pilot. If alone, the situation can go two ways:
 +
 
 +
# The F-14A will utilize its better engines and accelerate away from the {{PAGENAME}} while utilizing countermeasures to ensure missiles cannot reach it. While it may be hoped the F-14's evasive maneuvers would slow it down enough for the {{PAGENAME}} to catch up, this is unlikely and the F-14A may speed away and decide to re-engage the {{PAGENAME}} on its own terms or return to the airfield.
 +
# The situation may devolve into a close-range dogfight with IR missiles and gun, with energy management of the planes dependent on pilot's abilities between F-14 and MiG-23. However, this is a relatively disadvantageous situation for the {{PAGENAME}} pilot to get itself in as chances are if it is tangling with one F-14, there is another coming in from another angle ready to stick a Sidewinder up the {{PAGENAME}}'s engine exhaust.
 +
 
 +
However the engagement carries out, the {{PAGENAME}} pilot needs to be aware that the F-14A is a formidable plane and should be prioritized appropriately with allies. Most importantly, recognize that fighting a team of F-14As is not a one-pilot deal; utilize allies to help break off tailing F-14s or take down distracted F-14s to whittle away their numbers to annihilate the enemy team.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
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''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
 
  
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'''Pros: the aircraft has incredible speed and acceleration'''
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'''Pros:'''
  
−
*
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* Very high acceleration and top speed
 +
* Agile in dogfights
 +
* Good countermeasure supply
 +
* Access to powerful R-24 missiles for distant targets
 +
* Has an IRST for stealthy target acquisition
 +
* Radar has ACM mode
 +
* Extraordinarily fast, it will overspeed at any altitude, including at altitude 13 km at Mach 2.4
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
*
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* Limited missile capacity
 +
* Gun is finicky to use and has limited ammunition
 +
* Limited ground attack ordnance and ballistic computer functionality, not very suited for ground attack
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
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== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
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''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
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;Skins
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_23mld Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
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;Videos
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{{Youtube-gallery|cvpr1GYfwQc|'''Mig-23MLD : A Basic Review''' - ''Tims Variety''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
  
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* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
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;Related development
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[MiG-23 (Family)]]
 +
 
 +
; '''Other jet planes with variable sweep wings'''
 +
 
 +
* [[Tornado (Family)]]
 +
* [[Su-17/22 (Family)]]
 +
* [[F-14 (Family)|F14 (Family)]]
 +
* [[F-111A]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==

Latest revision as of 03:45, 24 March 2024

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the Soviet jet fighter MiG-23MLD. For other versions, see MiG-23 (Family).
MiG-23MLD
mig_23mld.png
GarageImage MiG-23MLD.jpg
MiG-23MLD
USSR flag.png USSR
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.7 11.7 11.3
Class:
Research:175 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:950 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

In the dawn of the 1980s, the refinements to the MiG-23 airframe in the MiG-23ML and MLA variants were deemed "still insufficient" and too difficult to use in combat against the latest 4th generation aircraft (as demonstrated in combat in the Middle East and Africa). As a result, until the (then) early MiG-29 could have its early production issues ironed out, an "ultimate" refinement of the MiG-23 was ordered, based on the upgrades applied to the ML and MLA variants previously and incorporating new technology from the then new MiG-29. The new plane had a complete overhaul to not only its avionics, but the airframe as well. The airframe was lightened even further over the ML "lightweight" variant, the wings were upgraded to the new strengthened "Type 4" wing with the "dogtooth" wing root for increased AoA at higher speeds, and were also given new slats and vortex generators to increase low speed performance. And to top off the flight performance upgrades, the powerful R-35F-300 engine providing extra thrust over older MiG-23 models was installed. The radar was replaced with the brand new N-008 (Sapphire-23MLA-II) radar, featuring electronic countermeasure resistance, vertical scan "dogfight" modes, Track-While-Scan capability, and far greater range over previous Sapphire-23 models. The avionics suite was completely overhauled with new smaller and lighter electronics, including new GCI and autopilot systems, multiple new new safety systems, and most importantly, the major upgrade from the previous SPO-10 RWR to the new SPO-15L "Breyoza" RWR system from the MiG-29. The reinforcement and lightening of the airframe resulted in the MiG-23MLD, when in the hands of experienced pilots in Maryi airbase (the Soviet equivalant to the American "Top Gun" aggressor training school) being able to beat even the new MiG-29 regularly in hit-and-run dogfights. Almost all MLDs were rebuilt from older ML and MLA aircraft, with the exception being the 62 export MLDs sold to Bulgaria (12) and Syria (50), being the last brand new single-seat MiG-23 airframes to roll off the production line.

The MiG-23MLD, introduced in Update "Ground Breaking", is the ultimate culmination of the Flogger family of aircraft. Building upon everything learned from the previous MiG-23 variants, this plane not only refines all of it to near perfection, but also introduces new gameplay elements that are required before advancing to the formidable MiG-29 that follows it in the tech tree. The lightened and strengthened airframe plus the increased engine power over its predecessor, the MiG-23M, will be instantly noticable as they provide a major advantage during manoeuvring, allowing the MLD to dogfight almost every 3rd generation fighter it faces, and some heavier 4th generation aircraft too. The aircraft is no slouch in relying on its weapons systems either, being outfitted with a generous amount of R-60M all aspect missiles in addition ot the potent R-24R/T missiles, a strong radar system, and a IRST targeting set. Manoeuvrability is exponentially increased over the previous MiG-23M with the replacement of the SPO-10 with a SPO-15L RWR from a MiG-29, and the addition of BDS-50-60 countermeasure dispensers increasing the amount of countermeasures you can take by six times. All in all, the MiG-23 is a very easy plane to learn and use, but a difficult one to master, as the player is forced to learn about enemy aircraft he faces, and decide accordingly for each engagement whether he needs to utilize the aircraft's great flight performance in a dogfight or employ its strong weapons systems in hit-and-run tactics, a very important note as the skill of picking your engagements and how to fight them is a important skill you will need for the succeeding aircraft in the tech tree, the venerable MiG-29.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Drogue parachute
Reduces braking distance when landing on any runway
Max speed
at 13 000 m2 358 km/h
Turn time33 s
Max altitude16 000 m
EngineTumansky R-35-300
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight20 t

The MiG-23MLD's performance leaves little to be desired. The MiG-23M boasted a high top speed but was somewhat underpowered; this is very much fixed on the MLD because its engine is 20% more powerful, and as a result its thrust-to-weight ratio practically matches the F-104S and MiG-21bis. It has an excellent climb rate exceeding 200 m/s at sea level and fantastic acceleration, particularly at transonic or supersonic speeds when the wings can be swept back. Thus, the MLD will have few issues rushing to the front lines, climbing for an altitude advantage, or chasing down a fleeing opponent.

The MLD is also very competitive in dogfights. As on the MiG-23M, the swing wings fundamentally allow for good sustained turning at low to medium speeds provided the wings are swept forward. The MLD's vortex generators, dogtoothed wing gloves, and superior thrust-to-weight enhance its turning performance further. It can reliably beat any F-4 Phantom in a turning engagement, and it can at the very least keep up with if not outplay agile opponents like the MiG-21bis and JA37C.

There are a few quirks to watch out for. First, the MiG-23MLD's excellent engine power means that it will quite easily reach its rip speed when flying in a straight line on full afterburner, so be mindful of the IAS. Second, though it has great acceleration and climb rate at transonic and supersonic speeds, the manoeuvrability in these zones can be a bit sluggish or wobbly at times, so keep that in mind when trying to score high-speed snapshots, and in situations requiring turning or precise aim it's best to slow down and allow the wings to sweep forward a bit.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 13,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 2,333 2,320 16000 33.5 33.9 193.9 186.0 750
Upgraded 2,498 2,358 32.6 33.0 248.3 220.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X ✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
Min sweep 1,330 630 N/A 508 473 ~10 ~4
Max sweep 1,470 N/A N/A N/A ~11 ~4
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 665 < 650 < 700 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
Tumansky R-35-300 1 10,705 kg 374 - 422 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 9m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 31m fuel
1,760 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 11,815 kg 13,020 kg 14,178 kg 14,405 kg 17,800 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 9m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 31m fuel MTOW
Stationary 7,103 kgf 10,305 kgf 0.87 0.79 0.73 0.72 0.58
Optimal 8,368 kgf
(1,400 km/h) 		15,787 kgf
(1,400 km/h) 		1.34 1.21 1.11 1.10 0.89

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear630 km/h

Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB2 793 → 4 061 Sl icon.png
RB8 215 → 11 944 Sl icon.png
SB8 935 → 12 991 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications294 200 Rp icon.png
457 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training270 000 Sl icon.png
Experts950 000 Sl icon.png
Aces3 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 210 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
100 / 320 / 600 % Sl icon.png
244 / 244 / 244 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
650 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
650 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
ns23_belt_pack
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
OFAB-100
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
UB-32
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-13M
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
ns23_new_gun
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-250
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
B-8M1
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-60M
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods gunpods.png
Gun pod UPK-23-250
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-500
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
S-24
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-23R
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-23T
Mods napalm fire bomb.png
ZB-500
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
650 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
650 Ge icon.png
Mods agm missile.png
Kh-23M
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
650 Ge icon.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-24R
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
650 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-24T

Armaments

Ballistic Computer
CCIP (Guns) CCIP (Rockets) CCIP (Bombs) CCRP (Bombs)
Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon RedXCross.png Icon RedXCross.png

Offensive armament

Main article: GSh-23L (23 mm)

The MiG-23MLD is armed with:

  • 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
  • 60 x large calibre countermeasures

The MiG-23MLD still retains the 23 mm GSh-23L cannon with 200 rounds from the MiG-23M. It has an excellent rate of fire and will likely do significant damage if it hits a target, but the muzzle velocity is unimpressive and it can be a challenge to aim it properly in high speed engagements. It's generally best to reserve the gun for extended dogfights where the MLD can use its manoeuvrability to pull lead on a slower target. The limited ammunition supply means that the average pilot can only expect a kill or two with the gun before needing to go back to base.

The MLD has a far healthier supply of countermeasures than the MiG-23M. It retains the pack of 12 countermeasures installed in the central underbelly pylon but now features the twin 30-round dispensers installed on the wing gloves, first seen on the MiG-27M. There is no need to be as stingy when flaring incoming IR missiles or using chaff to disrupt a radar lock. Also, these are still "large calibre countermeasures", so on a unit basis they have stronger effects than standard flares or chaff.

Suspended armament

The MiG-23MLD can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5
Hardpoints MiG-23MLA (Germany).png
23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg) 1 1
100 kg OFAB-100 bombs 4 4† 4† 4
250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs 1 1 1 1
500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs 1 1
ZB-500 incendiary bombs 1 1
S-5K rockets 16, 32 16 16 16, 32
S-8KO rockets 20 20
S-24B rockets 1 1 1 1
Kh-23M missiles 1* 1*
R-13M1 missiles 1 1 1 1
R-23R missiles 1 1
R-23T missiles 1 1
R-24R missiles 1 1
R-24T missiles 1 1
R-60M missiles 1 2 2 1
Large calibre countermeasures 12
Delta-NG targeting pod 1*
820 l drop tanks 1†
* It is required to equip the Delta-NG targeting pod with the Kh-23M missiles
† The drop tank cannot be equipped in conjunction with quad bombs on adjacent hardpoints
Default weapon presets
  • 1 x 820 l drop tank
  • 2 x R-13M1 missiles
  • 12 x large calibre countermeasures
  • 4 x R-13M1 missiles
  • 6 x R-60M missiles
  • 2 x R-23R missiles
  • 2 x R-23T missiles
  • 2 x R-24R missiles
  • 2 x R-24T missiles
  • 64 x S-5K rockets
  • 64 x S-5K rockets
  • 40 x S-8KO rockets
  • 4 x S-24B rockets
  • 2 x Kh-23M missiles
  • 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
  • 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 2 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
  • 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)

The MiG-23MLD has similar loadouts to the MiG-23M. The main difference is that it has access to R-24R and R-24T missiles, which are straight upgrades to the R-23R and R-23T missiles. The R-24s are deadly missiles, but the MLD is still limited to carrying only two of them. The R-23s should only be used as stopgaps before the R-24s are unlocked.

For ground attack, the MLD can use various unguided bombs and rockets. The only guided air-to-ground option is the Kh-23M MCLOS missile. It does have a ballistic computer but it can only provide CCIP guidance for the guns/gun pods and rockets. As dedicated attackers, the related MiG-27M and MiG-27K are much better options.

Usage in battles

The MiG-23MLD is a fairly forgiving fighter that can be used for many approaches. Players who want to beeline straight into battle and jump in dogfights will be satisfied by its great acceleration and dogfight performance. Those who prefer to hang back can use its climb rate to build up altitude and energy while observing the battle below. From this point, fans of long range combat can sling the R-24R radar-guided missiles to snipe targets at long range or low altitude, and opportunistic pilots can sneak in from the sidelines and use the IRST in conjunction with the R-24T IR missiles to eliminate distracted targets. The MiG-23MLD does not reign supreme in the pure beyond-visual-range role because it can only carry two R-24Rs compared to the four AIM-7E-2s or Skyflashes carried by the F-4EJ Kai Phantom II and Phantom FGR.2 for example, so one should plan on getting close and dogfighting at some point to not let the MLD's full capabilities go to waste.

The R-24s should be used wisely because of their limited capacity. R-24Ts in particular are excellent for sneak attacks against distracted targets because of their range, manoeuvrability, and tracking, but they can still be spoofed by flares if the target sees it coming. The R-60Ms are more plentiful, which offsets their high flare sensitivity, and should be preferentially used in close combat. Ideally, one can wait until opponents have run out of countermeasures and/or are no longer in a good position to make evasive manoeuvres.

The MLD can pull harder than the MiG-23M because of its aerodynamic improvements, which is definitely good for nosing onto targets, but if optimal rate fighting performance is desired, it's best to keep the airspeed at or above 600 km/h by managing the elevator.

The MLD's radar now features an ACM mode to quickly and conveniently acquire targets in dogfight scenarios, which can be helpful if one needs to use the R-24R or desires radar cueing for the IR missiles.

Fighting the F-14A Early

The F-14 Tomcat is a very capable and popular aircraft in the American tech tree. Facing against a F-14 will be inevitable for pilots of the MiG-23MLD. However, there are certain actions a MiG-23MLD pilot can take to make the encounter a more even fighting chance.

Firstly, a MiG-23MLD pilot should be familiar with how to defeat certain radar search and tracking ability. While flying low can help with defeating the standard searching radar, the F-14 like the F-4J before it is equipped with Pulse-Doppler (PD) radar. PD radar can enable the aircraft to lock onto other aircraft against the ground clutter. However, this can also be countered by "notching" the aircraft by flying perpendicular to the PD radar lock (as in making sure the PD radar lock in the Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) is at the 3 or 9 o'clock direction from the aircraft). This will interfere with the PD radar's ability to lock onto the MiG-23MLD. However, be aware that the MiG-23MLD is unlikely to be "invisible" to a F-14's radar as the F-14 has the ability to use a "Track-While-Scan" mode to identify enemy aircraft on the horizon. So while the MiG-23MLD pilot can deny the F-14 an easy lock for them to utilize a SARH or ARH missile, they will be aware that the MiG-23MLD is present in that general direction.

Once a F-14 has been identified, three different threat envelopes need to be recognized.

  1. AIM-54 Phoenix: Perhaps the aircraft's most famous armament, the F-14's Phoenix missiles are unique in their extremely long firing range of tens of kilometers away. However, do not be discouraged! There are many limitations with missile that can be exploited to reduce the chance of a hit. First is that if fired at a long-range, the Phoenix missile can be identified by its long smoke trail from the F-14 aircraft. This allows not only a MiG-23MLD pilot to recognize a F-14 is present, but also perform evasive maneuvers. The second is that from a long-range firing, the Phoenix are not utilizing its "active-radar homing" (ARH) abilities and is instead utilizing inertial navigation at its launch. This means the missile is not actively tracking the aircraft, but simply homing towards the general direction of the MiG-23MLD's vector and once within range, will activate its radar for the active homing towards the final target. This means that until the active radar homing is on, the MiG-23MLD can evade and escape where the missile will think the MiG-23MLD will be. If successful and once the Phoenix turns on its radar, it will not be able to locate the MiG-23MLD and therefore not be able to home in. If the Phoenix does end up targeting right at the MiG-23MLD, a copious amount of chaff and maneuverability should be sufficient to perform an evasion against the missile's final run.
  2. AIM-7F Sparrow: A familiar missile that MiG-23MLD will know fighting against F-4Js, the AIM-7F is more lethal with the F-14 as the aircraft can carry more and has a more capable radar. In fact, it can be argued the Sparrow is a comparatively underrated weapon in the pylons of a F-14 due to the aircraft's capabilities enhancing the missile's own. By the time the F-14 is within optimum range to use the Sparrow, there is often very little time for the MiG-23MLD to perform the right action to evade the missile, especially during a head-on. A F-14 using a Sparrow less than 10 km away will be more dangerous than a F-14 using a Phoenix from 40 km away. Take extreme caution against F-14 pilots that bring Sparrows over the Phoenixes.
  3. AIM-9 Sidewinders: A very familiar missile all close-range dogfighters are familiar with. The F-14 has access to a wide variety of Sidewinder missiles, but its most lethal is the AIM-9H. Once again, though the missile's capability is not too dramatically different from past Sidewinders like the AIM-9G from the F-4J, the F-14's capabilities especially in slow maneuverability makes the Sidewinder a concerning weapon against even a unswept wing MiG-23MLD. While flares should be sufficient in interfering with a Sidewinder lock, maneuverability and engine management needs to be accounted so the Sidewinder still does not see the after-burning engine as a more enticing target than the flares.

So now that the F-14's capabilities are familiarized with, how should a MiG-23MLD pilot attack a F-14?

Perhaps the most successful way is to go after tunnel-vision F-14 pilots from medium range. F-14 pilots at any altitude would be concerned about using their radar to engage enemies with long-range missiles. Therefore, a MiG-23MLD would find it productive to instead fly towards the sides of the map, away from the straight path towards the enemy airfield. The loadout to bring would be the IR-guided R-24T and pilot's choice of R-13M1 or R-60Ms for the short-range IR missiles. Once a decent distance from the friendly airfield alongside the sides of the map (position roughly 30-40% between friendly airfield to enemy airfield), make sure there are no enemy aircraft also in the area before turning towards the center of the map, this way you can meet enemy F-14's vector perpendicularly for an optimum attack angle.

Utilize the MiG-23MLD's IRST function instead of the standard radar in order to not trigger the F-14's RWR, and use IRST to lock onto F-14s from a long-distance for the R-24T. Once a lock can be acquired, utilize the R-24T's extremely wide uncaged seeker to compensate the lead for the F-14's speed and direction. Once within an optimum distance (roughly 5 km), fire the R-24T towards the F-14. While it may be tempting to watch the R-24T seek its target, the MiG-23MLD pilot should instead disengage and try and locate another target for its other missile. It is up to luck at this point and the F-14 pilot's awareness if they notice the incoming R-24T before it destroys their aircraft.

If the F-14 notices the MiG-23MLD and its missile, the situation will quickly get out of hand as the F-14 has decent countermeasures to throw off the MiG-23MLD's IR missiles. Once a F-14 is aware of the MiG-23MLD position at its sides or rear, additional missiles may prove fruitless as the enemy pilot would have their countermeasures primed and ready. The MiG-23MLD pilot can now only hope that the F-14 is too pre-occupied at the tailing MiG-23MLD that allies can approach and take out the distracted F-14 pilot. If alone, the situation can go two ways:

  1. The F-14A will utilize its better engines and accelerate away from the MiG-23MLD while utilizing countermeasures to ensure missiles cannot reach it. While it may be hoped the F-14's evasive maneuvers would slow it down enough for the MiG-23MLD to catch up, this is unlikely and the F-14A may speed away and decide to re-engage the MiG-23MLD on its own terms or return to the airfield.
  2. The situation may devolve into a close-range dogfight with IR missiles and gun, with energy management of the planes dependent on pilot's abilities between F-14 and MiG-23. However, this is a relatively disadvantageous situation for the MiG-23MLD pilot to get itself in as chances are if it is tangling with one F-14, there is another coming in from another angle ready to stick a Sidewinder up the MiG-23MLD's engine exhaust.

However the engagement carries out, the MiG-23MLD pilot needs to be aware that the F-14A is a formidable plane and should be prioritized appropriately with allies. Most importantly, recognize that fighting a team of F-14As is not a one-pilot deal; utilize allies to help break off tailing F-14s or take down distracted F-14s to whittle away their numbers to annihilate the enemy team.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Very high acceleration and top speed
  • Agile in dogfights
  • Good countermeasure supply
  • Access to powerful R-24 missiles for distant targets
  • Has an IRST for stealthy target acquisition
  • Radar has ACM mode
  • Extraordinarily fast, it will overspeed at any altitude, including at altitude 13 km at Mach 2.4

Cons:

  • Limited missile capacity
  • Gun is finicky to use and has limited ammunition
  • Limited ground attack ordnance and ballistic computer functionality, not very suited for ground attack

History

Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref></ref>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <references />. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under === In-game description ===, also if applicable).

Media

Skins
Videos
Mig-23MLD : A Basic Review - Tims Variety

See also

Related development
Other jet planes with variable sweep wings

External links


Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau (Микоя́н и Гуре́вич Опытное конструкторское бюро)
Fighters  MiG-3-15 · MiG-3-15 (BK) · MiG-3-34
  I-225
Jet fighters  MiG-9 · MiG-9 (l)
  MiG-15 · MiG-15bis · MiG-15bis ISh
  MiG-17
  MiG-19PT
  MiG-21F-13 · MiG-21PFM · MiG-21S (R-13-300) · MiG-21SMT · MiG-21bis
  MiG-23M · MiG-23ML · MiG-23MLD
  MiG-27M · MiG-27K
  MiG-29 · MiG-29SMT
Export/Licensed  ␗MiG-9 · ␗MiG-9 (l)
  ◊MiG-15bis · ◔MiG-15bis · J-2*
  MiG-17AS · ◔MiG-17PF · J-4* · Shenyang F-5*
  ◊MiG-19S · J-6A*
  ◄MiG-21 SPS-K · ◊MiG-21MF · ◔MiG-21MF · ▄MiG-21bis · ◔MiG-21bis-SAU · ◊MiG-21bis-SAU · ◊MiG-21 "Lazur-M" · ▄MiG-21 Bison · J-7II**
  ◊MiG-23BN · ◊MiG-23MF · ◔MiG-23MF · ◊MiG-23MLA
  ◔MiG-29 · ◊MiG-29 · ◄MiG-29G
  *Licensed and domesticated with Chinese designations.
  **Unlicensed, reverse-engineered and domesticated with Chinese designations.
See Also  Shenyang · Chengdu

USSR jet aircraft
Bereznyak-Isayev  BI
Yakovlev  Yak-15 · Yak-15P · Yak-17 · Yak-23 · Yak-28B · Yak-30D · Yak-38 · Yak-38M · Yak-141
Mikoyan-Gurevich  MiG-9 · MiG-9 (l) · MiG-15 · MiG-15bis · MiG-15bis ISh · MiG-17 · MiG-17AS · MiG-19PT
  MiG-21F-13 · MiG-21PFM · MiG-21S (R-13-300) · MiG-21SMT · MiG-21bis
  MiG-23M · MiG-23ML · MiG-23MLD · MiG-27M · MiG-27K
  MiG-29 · MiG-29SMT
Lavochkin  La-174 · La-15 · La-200
Sukhoi  Su-9 · Su-11
  Su-7B · Su-7BKL · Su-7BMK · Su-17M2 · Su-17M4 · Su-22M3
  Su-24M
  Su-25 · Su-25BM · Su-25K · Su-25T · Su-25SM3 · Su-39
  Su-27 · Su-27SM
  Su-34
Ilyushin  IL-28 · IL-28Sh
Tupolev  Tu-14T

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