Difference between revisions of "MiG-23ML"

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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 premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Apex Predators"]].
+
The first generation [[MiG-23M]] (and its export variant, the [[MiG-23MF (Germany)|MF]]) had a lot of shortcomings as was expected from a completely new and unique aircraft design. Over time, the most severe issues were addressed, and a complete rework of the MiG-23 airframe was conducted in the early 1970s. The airframe was completely redesigned in a way that trimmed down the drag and weight, by removing the No.4 fuel tank in the fuselage, cropping the dorsal fin extension, and redesigning the landing gear and wing-sweep mechanisms to be not only lighter, but more robust and reliable, the MiG-23ML (with L standing for "Lyogiky", i.e "Lightweight"). These upgrades were then mated with two other major changes to the MiG-23 airframe. The first being the new Tumansky R-25F-300 engine, increasing the thrust of the aircraft noticably. The other difference, was a complete overhaul of the flight and fire control systems to modern standards, chief of which was the new Sapphire-23ML radar and TP-23M IRST, the latter of which was rated at up to twice the range of its predecessor. The new systems allowed the aircraft to greatly increase its defensive and offensive capabilities, through the ability to use BDS-50-60 countermeasure dispensers and the new R-24 missile, in addition to a few upgrades to the CAS ordnance of the aircraft, namely the ability to use the UPK-23 gunpods.
 +
 
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a pack premium introduced in [[Update "Apex Predators"]]. It is functionally identical to the [[MiG-23MLA (Germany)|MiG-23MLA]] found in the German tree, and is slightly different from the [[MiG-23MLD]]. Just like those two aircraft, the MiG-23ML is a very capable and versatile plane, with a powerful engine and a diverse arsenal of weaponry to choose from. The RP-23ML radar is strong for its battle rating, which coupled with the [[R-24R]] and [[R-24T]] missiles, provides a very lethal combination for engaging enemy aircraft at BVR.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
The MiG-23ML is an upgraded variant of the MiG-23 which was introduced to correct the drawbacks of its earlier variants. The L stands for "''lyogiky''", or "lightweight"; as the name suggests, this variant of the aircraft introduced a redesigned airframe with less drag and weight, the strengthening of the wing folding mechanisms to permit a higher G-limit, among other assorted upgrades.
 
−
 
−
In War Thunder, the MiG-23ML is functionally identical to the [[MiG-23MLA (Germany)]] and is slightly different from the [[MiG-23MLD]]. Overall, the MiG-23ML is a very capable and versatile plane, with a powerful engine and a diverse arsenal of weaponry to choose from. Plus, being a premium plane, you earn twice as many Research Points and Silver Lions, helping you grind the tech tree more swiftly.
 
−
 
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
{{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.'' -->
−
The MiG-23ML has superior flight performance with its powerful engine and variable-geometry wing design which allows for faster turning on demand. With over 10,000 kilograms-force of thrust, its thrust-to-weight ratio rivals that of even the F-104S. While the plane lacks the leading-edge slats of the MiG-23MLD, this gives it an energy retention advantage in sustained dogfights.  
+
The MiG-23ML has superior flight performance with its powerful engine and variable-geometry wing design which allows for faster turning on demand. With over 10,000 kgf of thrust, its thrust-to-weight ratio rivals that of even the F-104S. While the plane lacks the leading-edge slats of the MiG-23MLD, this gives it an energy retention advantage in sustained dogfights.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|}
 
|}
  
−
{| 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)
Line 64: Line 61:
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || ___ || ___ || ___ || ~__ || ~__
+
! Min sweep
 +
| 892 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~10 || ~4
 +
|-
 +
! Max sweep
 +
| 1,470 || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~11 || ~4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 74: Line 75:
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || N/A
+
| < 665 || < 650 || < 700 || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 82: Line 83:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! 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" | __,___ kg || colspan="2" | ___ 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" | {{Annotation|Max Gross<br>Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
+
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross<br>Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
−
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel
+
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 31m fuel
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 1760 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
+
| 1,760 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
−
| _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg
+
| 11,815 kg || 13,020 kg || 14,178 kg || 14,405 kg || 16,086 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
−
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel || MGW
+
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 31m fuel || MGW
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Stationary'' || ___ kgf || ___ kgf
+
| ''Stationary'' || 7,103 kgf || 10,305 kgf
−
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
+
| 0.87 || 0.79 || 0.73 || 0.72 || 0.64
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Optimal'' || ___ kgf<br>(_ km/h) || ___ kgf<br>(_ km/h)
+
| ''Optimal'' || 8,368 kgf<br>(1,400 km/h) || 15,787 kgf<br>(1,400 km/h)
−
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
+
| 1.34 || 1.21 || 1.11 || 1.10 || 0.98
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
The MiG-23ML has no armor protection. It is a somewhat large plane, so it can survive low caliber bullets as well as a few higher caliber ones if lucky. The plane is equipped with 72 large-caliber countermeasures; with optimal flaring tactics, one can survive several missiles launched at them. As you have only one engine, your performance is severely impaired if it is damaged. You are out of the fight if the engine is destroyed. Fuel tanks are located on the wings, in the center of the plane, and above the engine. All fuel tanks are self-sealing. While the engine is equipped with a fire suppression system, using it will disable the engine. Only use if you have enough speed and distance to return to your airfield.
+
The MiG-23ML has no armour protection. It is a somewhat large plane, so it can survive low caliber bullets as well as a few higher caliber ones if lucky. The plane is equipped with 72 large-caliber countermeasures; with optimal flaring tactics, one can survive several missiles launched at them. As you have only one engine, your performance will be severely impaired if it is damaged. You will be out of the fight if the engine is destroyed. Fuel tanks are located on the wings, in the centre of the plane, and above the engine. All fuel tanks are self-sealing. While the engine is equipped with a fire suppression system, using it will disable the engine. Only use it if you have enough speed and distance to return to your airfield.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
−
As a premium vehicle, the MiG-23ML comes with all modifications unlocked. All premium vehicles are equipped with a talisman, which doubles RP and SL rewards.{{Specs-Economy}}
+
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
As a premium vehicle, the MiG-23ML comes with all modifications unlocked. All premium vehicles are equipped with a talisman, which doubles RP and SL rewards.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
 +
|-
 +
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
 +
|-
 +
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}}
 +
|-
 +
|}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
Line 130: Line 141:
 
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 large calibre countermeasures
 
  
 
=== 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.'' -->
−
The MiG-23ML has a vast arsenal of suspended weaponry to choose from, including:
 
  
−
'''Short-range missiles (up to 6):'''
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
* R-13M1 (IR, 20G overload)
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
−
* R-60M (IR, 30G overload)
+
|-
−
 
+
! !! width="9%" | 1 !! width="9%" | 2 !! width="9%" | 3 !! width="9%" | 4 !! width="9%" | 5
−
'''Medium-range missiles (up to 2)''':
+
| rowspan="19" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-23MLA (Germany).png]]</div>
−
 
+
|-
−
* R-23R (Radar-guided, 20G overload)
+
! [[GSh-23L (23 mm)|23 mm GSh-23L]] cannons (250 rpg)
−
* R-23T (IR, 20G overload)
+
| 1 || || || || 1
−
* R-24R (Radar-guided, 24G overload)
+
|-
−
* R-24T (IR, 24G overload)
+
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
−
 
+
| 4 || 4<sup>¶</sup> || || 4<sup>¶</sup> || 4
−
''*Note: The R-23T and R-24T may be used in conjunction with the IRST mode of the plane's radar. This is similar in function to a radar lock, but ignores chaff, may be countered by flares, and does not alert enemy radar warning receivers (RWR) that the plane is locked.''
+
|-
−
 
+
! [[FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|250 kg FAB-250M-62]] bombs
−
'''Gunpods:'''
+
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|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<sup>‡</sup> || || || || 1<sup>‡</sup>
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-23T]] missiles
 +
| 1<sup>†</sup> || || || || 1<sup>†</sup>
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-24R]] missiles
 +
| 1<sup>†</sup><sup>‡</sup> || || || || 1<sup>†</sup><sup>‡</sup>
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-24T]] missiles
 +
| 1<sup>†</sup><sup>‡</sup> || || || || 1<sup>†</sup><sup>‡</sup>
 +
|-
 +
! [[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> R-24R missiles cannot be equipped together with R-23T or R-24T missiles <br> <sup>‡</sup> R-24T missiles cannot be equipped together with R-23R or R-24R missiles  <br> <sup>¶</sup> The drop tank cannot be equipped in conjunction with quad bombs on adjacent hardpoints
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
−
* 2x 23 mm dual-barrel GSh-23L cannon gunpods (250 rpg)
+
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
  
−
'''Bombs:'''
+
* 1 x 820 l drop tank
−
 
+
* 12 x large calibre countermeasures
−
* Up to 16x OFAB-100 bombs (114kg each)
+
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
−
* Up to 4x FAB-250M-62 bombs (227kg each)
+
* 6 x R-60M missiles
−
* Up to 2x FAB-500M-62 bombs (508kg each)
+
* 2 x R-23T missiles
−
 
+
* 2 x R-23R missiles
−
'''Incendiary bombs:'''
+
* 2 x R-24R missiles
−
 
+
* 2 x R-24T missiles
−
* Up to 2x ZB-500 (374kg each, 250kg of CKC incendiary compound)
+
* 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
−
 
+
* 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
−
'''Unguided rockets:'''
+
* 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x R-24R missiles
−
 
+
* 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x R-24T missiles
−
* Up to 64 S-5K rockets (HEAT, 150mm penetration)
+
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
−
* Up to 40 S-8KO rockets (HEAT, 420mm penetration)
+
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 4 x R-60M missiles (800 kg total)
−
* Up to 4 S-24B rockets (235kg rockets with a 25.5kg HE warhead.)
+
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
−
 
+
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 4 x R-60M missiles (500 kg total)
−
'''Guided rockets:'''
+
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
−
 
+
* 2 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
−
* Up to 2 Kh-23M rockets (Manual guidance, 10km range, 289kg rockets with a 96kg HE warhead.)
+
* 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
−
 
+
* 64 x S-5K rockets
−
''Note: Taking any amount of Kh-23M rockets requires mounting of the "Targeting Delta-NG" pod on one of the slots.''
+
* 40 x S-8KO rockets
−
 
+
* 4 x S-24B rockets
−
'''Custom weapon loadouts are available for the MiG-23ML.'''
+
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
 +
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
The MiG-23ML is very versatile and has usefulness in nearly every combat situation. In air battles, the MiG-23ML can carry six short-range missiles, or four of them with two medium-range missiles. The best missiles for the plane are the R-60 and R-24. While the R-13 and R-23 can be useful, they are inferior to their counterparts in every way and should not be used. One interesting trait of the MiG-23ML is that the IRST used with the R-23T or R-24T can wipe out unsuspecting enemies, especially towards the beginning of the match. The R-60's, while excellent at turning, have a shorter range than similar short-range missiles. The plane has very good energy retention and has some of the best flight performance out of any plane at its BR.
+
The MiG-23ML is very versatile and has usefulness in nearly every combat situation. In air battles, the MiG-23ML can carry six short-range air-to-air missiles, or four of them with two medium-range air-to-air missiles. The best air-to-air missiles for the plane are the R-60 and R-24. While the R-13 and R-23 can be useful, they are inferior to their counterparts in every way. One interesting trait of the MiG-23ML is that the IRST used with the R-23T or R-24T can wipe out unsuspecting enemies, especially towards the beginning of the match. The R-60s, while excellent at turning, have a shorter range than similar short-range missiles. The plane has very good energy retention and has some of the best flight performance out of any plane at its BR.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 198: Line 259:
  
 
* Limited internal cannon ammunition (~3.5 seconds of firing time before depletion)
 
* Limited internal cannon ammunition (~3.5 seconds of firing time before depletion)
−
* Large engine limits survivability from successful hits  
+
* Large engine limits survivability from successful hits
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 206: Line 267:
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_23ml Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|tub5koN9rno|'''MiG-23ML Ultimate Guide''' - ''Bob Dickinson''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 216: Line 283:
 
* ''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.''
 +
 +
;Related development
 +
 +
*[[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 ==
Line 221: Line 299:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
  
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [[wt:en/news/8015-shop-pre-order-new-rank-vii-premium-jet-fighters-part-2-en|[Shop] Pre-order: new rank VII Premium jet fighters (part 2)]]
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 +
{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
 
{{USSR jet aircraft}}
 
{{USSR jet aircraft}}
 
{{USSR premium aircraft}}
 
{{USSR premium aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 05:14, 8 November 2024

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the premium Soviet jet fighter MiG-23ML. For other versions, see MiG-23 (Family).
MiG-23ML
mig_23ml.png
GarageImage MiG-23ML.jpg
StoreImage MiG-23ML 003.jpg
MiG-23ML
USSR flag.png USSR
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.7 11.7 11.3
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
STORE

Description

The first generation MiG-23M (and its export variant, the MF) had a lot of shortcomings as was expected from a completely new and unique aircraft design. Over time, the most severe issues were addressed, and a complete rework of the MiG-23 airframe was conducted in the early 1970s. The airframe was completely redesigned in a way that trimmed down the drag and weight, by removing the No.4 fuel tank in the fuselage, cropping the dorsal fin extension, and redesigning the landing gear and wing-sweep mechanisms to be not only lighter, but more robust and reliable, the MiG-23ML (with L standing for "Lyogiky", i.e "Lightweight"). These upgrades were then mated with two other major changes to the MiG-23 airframe. The first being the new Tumansky R-25F-300 engine, increasing the thrust of the aircraft noticably. The other difference, was a complete overhaul of the flight and fire control systems to modern standards, chief of which was the new Sapphire-23ML radar and TP-23M IRST, the latter of which was rated at up to twice the range of its predecessor. The new systems allowed the aircraft to greatly increase its defensive and offensive capabilities, through the ability to use BDS-50-60 countermeasure dispensers and the new R-24 missile, in addition to a few upgrades to the CAS ordnance of the aircraft, namely the ability to use the UPK-23 gunpods.

The MiG-23ML is a pack premium introduced in Update "Apex Predators". It is functionally identical to the MiG-23MLA found in the German tree, and is slightly different from the MiG-23MLD. Just like those two aircraft, the MiG-23ML is a very capable and versatile plane, with a powerful engine and a diverse arsenal of weaponry to choose from. The RP-23ML radar is strong for its battle rating, which coupled with the R-24R and R-24T missiles, provides a very lethal combination for engaging enemy aircraft at BVR.

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-23ML has superior flight performance with its powerful engine and variable-geometry wing design which allows for faster turning on demand. With over 10,000 kgf of thrust, its thrust-to-weight ratio rivals that of even the F-104S. While the plane lacks the leading-edge slats of the MiG-23MLD, this gives it an energy retention advantage in sustained dogfights.

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 2,346 2,342 16000 33.6 33.9 196.1 190.6 750
Upgraded 2,371 2,358 32.4 33.0 246.1 220.0

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 892 630 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 Gross
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 16,086 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 MGW
Stationary 7,103 kgf 10,305 kgf 0.87 0.79 0.73 0.72 0.64
Optimal 8,368 kgf
(1,400 km/h) 		15,787 kgf
(1,400 km/h) 		1.34 1.21 1.11 1.10 0.98

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

The MiG-23ML has no armour protection. It is a somewhat large plane, so it can survive low caliber bullets as well as a few higher caliber ones if lucky. The plane is equipped with 72 large-caliber countermeasures; with optimal flaring tactics, one can survive several missiles launched at them. As you have only one engine, your performance will be severely impaired if it is damaged. You will be out of the fight if the engine is destroyed. Fuel tanks are located on the wings, in the centre of the plane, and above the engine. All fuel tanks are self-sealing. While the engine is equipped with a fire suppression system, using it will disable the engine. Only use it if you have enough speed and distance to return to your airfield.

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB2 052 Sl icon.png
RB6 124 Sl icon.png
SB6 119 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts1 770 000 Sl icon.png
Aces3 400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces2 560 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 100 / 320 / 600 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 250 / 250 / 250 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Mods ammo.png
ns23_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
UB-32
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-13M
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-250
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
ns23_new_gun
Mods pilon block rocket.png
B-8M1
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-60M
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-500
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-500
Mods gunpods.png
Gun pod UPK-23-250
Mods pilon rocket.png
S-24
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-23R
Mod arrow 0.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-23T
Mods napalm fire bomb.png
ZB-500
Mods agm missile.png
Kh-23M
Mods air to air missile.png
R-24R
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-24T

As a premium vehicle, the MiG-23ML comes with all modifications unlocked. All premium vehicles are equipped with a talisman, which doubles RP and SL rewards.

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-23ML is armed with:

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

Suspended armament

The MiG-23ML 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
† R-24R missiles cannot be equipped together with R-23T or R-24T missiles
‡ R-24T missiles cannot be equipped together with R-23R or R-24R missiles
The drop tank cannot be equipped in conjunction with quad bombs on adjacent hardpoints
Default weapon presets
  • 1 x 820 l drop tank
  • 12 x large calibre countermeasures
  • 4 x R-13M1 missiles
  • 6 x R-60M missiles
  • 2 x R-23T missiles
  • 2 x R-23R missiles
  • 2 x R-24R missiles
  • 2 x R-24T missiles
  • 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
  • 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
  • 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x R-24R missiles
  • 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x R-24T missiles
  • 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
  • 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 4 x R-60M missiles (800 kg total)
  • 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 4 x R-60M missiles (500 kg total)
  • 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 2 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
  • 4 x R-60M missiles + 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 64 x S-5K rockets
  • 40 x S-8KO rockets
  • 4 x S-24B rockets
  • 2 x Kh-23M missiles
  • 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)

Usage in battles

The MiG-23ML is very versatile and has usefulness in nearly every combat situation. In air battles, the MiG-23ML can carry six short-range air-to-air missiles, or four of them with two medium-range air-to-air missiles. The best air-to-air missiles for the plane are the R-60 and R-24. While the R-13 and R-23 can be useful, they are inferior to their counterparts in every way. One interesting trait of the MiG-23ML is that the IRST used with the R-23T or R-24T can wipe out unsuspecting enemies, especially towards the beginning of the match. The R-60s, while excellent at turning, have a shorter range than similar short-range missiles. The plane has very good energy retention and has some of the best flight performance out of any plane at its BR.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent variety of armaments to choose from
  • Excellent flight performance and versatility
  • Adequate dogfighting ability with variable-geometry wings
  • A useful radar and an IRST mode
  • Large-calibre countermeasures

Cons:

  • Limited internal cannon ammunition (~3.5 seconds of firing time before depletion)
  • Large engine limits survivability from successful hits

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-23ML Ultimate Guide - Bob Dickinson

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.
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

USSR premium aircraft
Fighters  Krasnolutsky's I-15bis · I-16 type 28 · Zhukovsky's I-153-M62 · I-153P · I-180S · I-301 · ITP (M-1)
  LaGG-3-4 · LaGG-3-23 · LaGG-3-34 · Dolgushin's La-7 · La-11
  Eremin's Yak-3(e) · Yak-3 (VK-107) · Yak-3T · Golovachev's Yak-9M
  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15 · ▂P-40E-1 · ▂P-47D-27 · ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5
  ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ▂Spitfire Mk IXc · ▂Fw 190 D-9
Twin-engine fighters  I-29
Jet fighters  Su-11 · MiG-15bis ISh · MiG-17AS · MiG-21S (R-13-300) · MiG-23ML
Strike aircraft  IL-2M "Avenger" · IL-2 M-82 · IL-8 (1944) · Su-6 · Tandem MAI · TIS MA · Su-8 · Tu-1
  Yak-38 · Su-7BMK · Su-25K · Su-39
Bombers  Po-2M · Be-6 · MBR-2-M-34 · Pe-2-205 · TB-3M-17-32
  ▂PBY-5A Catalina · ▂Hampden TB Mk I · ▂A-20G-30 · ▂B-25J-30

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