Difference between revisions of "MiG-3-34"

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m (Usage in battles: Changed "You should any aircraft flying in a straight line target" to "You should be able to destroy any aircraft flying in a straight line" to improve clarity, and changed "You should" to "Try to" in the next line.)
(Offensive armament: Updated)
(19 intermediate revisions by 6 users not shown)
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{{About
 
{{About
| about = Russian fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = Soviet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| and
 
 
| usage = other versions
 
| usage = other versions
| link-1 = MiG-3-15
+
| link = MiG-3 (Family)
| link-2 = MiG-3-15 (BK)
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
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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}} Russian fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.41]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.41]].
  
The MiG-3-34 was built with the intention of making a fighter capable of fighting at high altitudes and this is reflected in the game. The MiG-3 is one of the few Soviet planes that fly decently at high altitudes, although still not as well as German or American planes. This gives the Soviets a hand in high altitude battles and gives them some defence against high-flying bombers. This plane has dual 20 mm that is powerful and accurate with the neat ability to equip "Armored-Targets" (Antitank) rounds.
+
The MiG-3-34 was built with the intention of making a fighter capable of fighting at high altitudes. The MiG-3 series are one of the few Soviet planes that fly decently at high altitudes, although still not as well as German or American planes.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== 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 3-34 is not a turn fighter. It's a Boom & Zoom aircraft. It is a bit sluggish when turning, but the flaps help a lot. This aircraft climbs well. Upgrading helps a lot in this plane. Once upgraded it is enjoyable to fly though it may be a bit challenging to master, it is worth it.
+
The MiG 3-34 is not a turnfighter, it's a Boom & Zoom aircraft. It is a bit sluggish when turning, although the flaps can be used to turn better. This aircraft has a good climb rate for its BR. Once upgraded, the plane is enjoyable, though it may be a bit challenging to master.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
| < 350 || < 280 || < 350 || > 370
 
| < 350 || < 280 || < 350 || > 370
|-
 
|}
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
|-
 
! Optimal altitude
 
! 100% Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
| 6,000 m || 1,200 hp || 1,446 hp
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
{{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 overall survivability isn't bad. The pilot is very vulnerable. The plane's only armour is on the seat (8 mm and 8.5 mm). The structure of the plane is good. It isn't anything special. It can take a few hits. The fuel tanks sometimes explode and catch fire.
+
The plane's protection is average overall. The placement of critical components is good, with fuel tanks being self-sealing and close to the cockpit. The pilot has 8 mm armour in the back of the seat, and 8.5 mm armour under the seat which prevent stray bullets but do not protect against large calibre cannons. The lack of armoured glass and side protection for the cockpit makes it easy to take out the pilot.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
* 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons, nose-mounted (100 rpg = 200 total)
+
* 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles 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).'' -->
  
This aircraft can be used in 2 ways:
+
The MiG-3-34 is an interceptor which are mainly used to ''intercept'' bombers and strike aircraft, and take them out quickly with its 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons which can deal large amounts of damage in close range. Be mindful of bombers with large fuselages which are designed to take large amounts of damage; these can drain your ammo quickly. All interceptors get an air spawn behind the base, use this to your advantage and find a good climb ratio that lets you gain both altitude and speed, and keep in mind that MiG series interceptors work best at high altitudes.
  
As an anti-aircraft artillery and light vehicle destroyer, or as a Boom & Zoom aircraft.
+
Use the high-powered 20 mm cannons wisely, because they have limited ammo try to aim for critical components such as engines and crew members. Avoid getting in direct line of sight of a bomber, as you can easily get the pilot taken out by defensive turrets on a bomber. Try to intercept from the side and aim for the bomber tail, wing or the pilot.  
  
Its cannons can easily destroy anti-aircraft artillery when attacked from an angle. The cannons can easily destroy anti-aircraft artillery trucks and armoured vehicles.
+
The plane can to a lesser extent be used as a ground attacker, but it is advised against this due to its lack of armour, low ammo count and the fact that it doesn't have any ordnance.
 
 
It can destroy aircraft, especially bombers and ground attack aircraft. You should be able to destroy any aircraft flying in a straight line. Try to stay clear of [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire-s]] and [[A6M2|Zero-s]]. It is good in a head-on situations. You should target these planes: [[IL-2 (Family)|IL-2]], [[B-25J-1|B-25]], [[Yak-2 KABB|Yak 2 KABB]], [[Do 217 (Family)|Do 217]]...
 
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
! Oil
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
! Water
 
! Type
 
 
|-
 
|-
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br>1 gear || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== 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".''-->
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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".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
* 2 x [[ShVAK (20 mm)|ShVak 20 mm]] cannons which are powerful at close range
+
* 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons which are powerful at close range
* Durable construction
+
* Durable construction which can handle high speeds
* Using flaps improve turn time
+
* A great climb rate of climb for its BR
 +
* Strong flaps which can be used to decrease turn time
 +
* Roll rate is good at high altitudes.
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
* Very long reload time
+
* Limited ammunition
 
* Not very manoeuvrable in turns
 
* Not very manoeuvrable in turns
* Pilot is vulnerable  
+
* Pilot and engine are vulnerable due to lack of armour
* No additional armaments
+
* No additional armament other than 20 mm cannons
  
 
== History ==
 
== 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: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''-->
+
<!-- ''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: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
  
 
Though riddled with shortcomings, the I-200/MiG-1 fighter/interceptor aircraft proved to be both a popular and capable aircraft with pilots that had experience flying them. To address the oft-cited shortcomings, aircraft designers Mikoyan and Gurevich set out to rectify these issues, not only to make the aircraft more pilot-friendly but to make it a more effective fighter/interceptor.
 
Though riddled with shortcomings, the I-200/MiG-1 fighter/interceptor aircraft proved to be both a popular and capable aircraft with pilots that had experience flying them. To address the oft-cited shortcomings, aircraft designers Mikoyan and Gurevich set out to rectify these issues, not only to make the aircraft more pilot-friendly but to make it a more effective fighter/interceptor.
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The weapons of the MiG-3 always seemed lacking compared to other aircraft such as the Bf 109 which typically sported a 20 mm canon along with machine guns. MiG-3s of all iterations only had machine guns in the 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm varieties. Though experiments with wing-mounted gun pods and rockets took place, reduction of airspeed due to them often resulted in the pilots having them removed, one of the few times where fighter pilots prefered streamlined aircraft over firepower. Ultimately the new gun sight was not fit for the task, so pilots often relied on getting as close to the enemy aircraft as possible before opening fire, sometimes within point-blank range to ensure a hit.
 
The weapons of the MiG-3 always seemed lacking compared to other aircraft such as the Bf 109 which typically sported a 20 mm canon along with machine guns. MiG-3s of all iterations only had machine guns in the 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm varieties. Though experiments with wing-mounted gun pods and rockets took place, reduction of airspeed due to them often resulted in the pilots having them removed, one of the few times where fighter pilots prefered streamlined aircraft over firepower. Ultimately the new gun sight was not fit for the task, so pilots often relied on getting as close to the enemy aircraft as possible before opening fire, sometimes within point-blank range to ensure a hit.
  
Leading up to the German invasion titled Operation Barbarossa, MiG-3s found homes at front-line regiments. Here, they could ideally intercept any hostile bomber or reconnaissance aircraft that flew over such as the German Ju-86P. Unfortunately, at the beginning of the German invasion, the MiG-3, though one of the best fighters available to Soviet pilots, proved to be unsuited for the task at hand. Instead of intercepting bombers and reconnaissance aircraft, they instead fought more agile Bf 109s and such in a fashion which negated all of the MiG-3's advantages, and it struggled. With the Bf 109 being more agile and had better weapons, the MiG-3 fought for a foothold but often lost. It was around this time that other Russian fighters such as the Yak and LaGG series aircraft were debuting and showing their effectiveness at lower altitude combat with more agility and better weapon options. Forcing the aircraft to work as a bomber and ground attack aircraft proved to be an, even more, less effective than as a low-altitude fighter.
+
Leading up to the German invasion titled Operation Barbarossa, MiG-3s found homes at front-line regiments. Here, they could ideally intercept any hostile bomber or reconnaissance aircraft that flew over such as the German Ju-86P. Unfortunately, at the beginning of the German invasion, the MiG-3, though one of the best fighters available to Soviet pilots, proved to be unsuited for the task at hand. Instead of intercepting bombers and reconnaissance aircraft, they instead fought more agile Bf 109s and such in a fashion which negated all of the MiG-3's advantages, and it struggled. With the Bf 109 being more agile and had better weapons, the MiG-3 fought for a foothold but often lost. It was around this time that other Soviet fighters such as the Yak and LaGG series aircraft were debuting and showing their effectiveness at lower altitude combat with more agility and better weapon options. Forcing the aircraft to work as a bomber and ground attack aircraft proved to be an, even more, less effective than as a low-altitude fighter.
  
 
Some Soviet pilots did find success while flying the MiG-3. Aleksander Pokryshkin was one such pilot, as his initial foray into air combat was at the controls of a MiG-3. It was while flying the MiG-3 that Pokryshkin scored several victories against the German Bf 109. However, it was also during this time he realized that Soviet air combat doctrine was outdated, and he took detailed notes of his and other's accounts at air combat to determine a better way to fight. Pokryshkin's experience in the MiG-3 helped shape future Soviet air combat tactics for pilots flying more capable aircraft such as the  Yak-1B, P-39K and Lavochkin fighters. Pokryskin was quoted as saying, "''The operational advantage of the MiG-3 seemed to be obscured by its certain defects. However, these advantages could undoubtedly be exploited by a pilot able to discover them''."
 
Some Soviet pilots did find success while flying the MiG-3. Aleksander Pokryshkin was one such pilot, as his initial foray into air combat was at the controls of a MiG-3. It was while flying the MiG-3 that Pokryshkin scored several victories against the German Bf 109. However, it was also during this time he realized that Soviet air combat doctrine was outdated, and he took detailed notes of his and other's accounts at air combat to determine a better way to fight. Pokryshkin's experience in the MiG-3 helped shape future Soviet air combat tactics for pilots flying more capable aircraft such as the  Yak-1B, P-39K and Lavochkin fighters. Pokryskin was quoted as saying, "''The operational advantage of the MiG-3 seemed to be obscured by its certain defects. However, these advantages could undoubtedly be exploited by a pilot able to discover them''."
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;Skins
 
;Skins
  
* Skin and Camouflages for the [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=ussr&vehicleType=aircraft&vehicleClass=fighter&vehicle=mig_3_series_34 {{PAGENAME}}] in Warthunder Live.
+
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_3_series_34 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
[[File:MiG-3-34 Sanya V. Litvyak.mp4|thumb|"Sanya V. Litvyak" collaboration camouflage|none]]
 
[[File:MiG-3-34 Sanya V. Litvyak.mp4|thumb|"Sanya V. Litvyak" collaboration camouflage|none]]
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;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
  
* Curtiss [[P-40_(Family)|P-40]]
+
* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
 
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
 
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
* Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Hurricane]]
 
* Heinkel [[He 100 D-1|He 100]]
 
 
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
 
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
 
* Messerschmitt [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]]
 
* Messerschmitt [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1]]
+
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1 (Family)|Yak-1]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
<!--''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
 
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
* ''other literature.''-->
 
  
 
* [https://forum.warthunder.ru/index.php?/topic/100791-mig-3-34-serii/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance (Russian Forum)]
 
* [https://forum.warthunder.ru/index.php?/topic/100791-mig-3-34-serii/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance (Russian Forum)]

Revision as of 20:58, 2 January 2023

Rank VI | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the Soviet fighter MiG-3-34. For other versions, see MiG-3 (Family).
mig_3_series_34.png
GarageImage MiG-3-34.jpg
MiG-3-34
AB RB SB
2.7 2.7 2.3
Research:4 600 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:16 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The MiG-3-34 is a rank II Soviet fighter with a battle rating of 2.7 (AB/RB) and 2.3 (SB). It was introduced in Update 1.41.

The MiG-3-34 was built with the intention of making a fighter capable of fighting at high altitudes. The MiG-3 series are one of the few Soviet planes that fly decently at high altitudes, although still not as well as German or American planes.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 7 800 m612 km/h
Turn time22 s
Max altitude11 000 m
EngineMikulin AM-35A
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight4 t

The MiG 3-34 is not a turnfighter, it's a Boom & Zoom aircraft. It is a bit sluggish when turning, although the flaps can be used to turn better. This aircraft has a good climb rate for its BR. Once upgraded, the plane is enjoyable, though it may be a bit challenging to master.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 7,800 m)
Max altitude
(metres)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(metres/second)
Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 587 569 11000 23.2 24.1 12.8 12.8 450
Upgraded 641 612 20.8 22.0 20.2 16.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
700 320 457 428 280 ~12 ~5
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 350 < 280 < 350 > 370

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural700 km/h
Gear320 km/h

The plane's protection is average overall. The placement of critical components is good, with fuel tanks being self-sealing and close to the cockpit. The pilot has 8 mm armour in the back of the seat, and 8.5 mm armour under the seat which prevent stray bullets but do not protect against large calibre cannons. The lack of armoured glass and side protection for the cockpit makes it easy to take out the pilot.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB502 → 630 Sl icon.png
RB1 000 → 1 256 Sl icon.png
SB1 342 → 1 685 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications8 410 Rp icon.png
9 470 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost640 Ge icon.png
Crew training4 500 Sl icon.png
Experts16 000 Sl icon.png
Aces180 Ge icon.png
Research Aces190 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
30 / 80 / 150 % Sl icon.png
118 / 118 / 118 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
950 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
950 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
950 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
950 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
shvak_belt_pack
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
shvak_new_gun
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 12 x 20 mm ShVAK cannon
Ammunition400 rounds
Fire rate720 shots/min
Main article: ShVAK (20 mm)

The MiG-3-34 is armed with:

  • 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)

Usage in battles

The MiG-3-34 is an interceptor which are mainly used to intercept bombers and strike aircraft, and take them out quickly with its 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons which can deal large amounts of damage in close range. Be mindful of bombers with large fuselages which are designed to take large amounts of damage; these can drain your ammo quickly. All interceptors get an air spawn behind the base, use this to your advantage and find a good climb ratio that lets you gain both altitude and speed, and keep in mind that MiG series interceptors work best at high altitudes.

Use the high-powered 20 mm cannons wisely, because they have limited ammo try to aim for critical components such as engines and crew members. Avoid getting in direct line of sight of a bomber, as you can easily get the pilot taken out by defensive turrets on a bomber. Try to intercept from the side and aim for the bomber tail, wing or the pilot.

The plane can to a lesser extent be used as a ground attacker, but it is advised against this due to its lack of armour, low ammo count and the fact that it doesn't have any ordnance.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Controllable
Not auto controlled
Controllable
Not auto controlled
Controllable
Not auto controlled
Separate Not controllable
1 gear
Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons which are powerful at close range
  • Durable construction which can handle high speeds
  • A great climb rate of climb for its BR
  • Strong flaps which can be used to decrease turn time
  • Roll rate is good at high altitudes.

Cons:

  • Limited ammunition
  • Not very manoeuvrable in turns
  • Pilot and engine are vulnerable due to lack of armour
  • No additional armament other than 20 mm cannons

History

Though riddled with shortcomings, the I-200/MiG-1 fighter/interceptor aircraft proved to be both a popular and capable aircraft with pilots that had experience flying them. To address the oft-cited shortcomings, aircraft designers Mikoyan and Gurevich set out to rectify these issues, not only to make the aircraft more pilot-friendly but to make it a more effective fighter/interceptor.

By utilizing a full-sized model of the aircraft in a wind tunnel, designers quickly set about documenting necessary changes in the aircraft's configuration. The increase of the outer wing dihedral improved the wing's overall stability and lengthening the fuselage by just four inches improved the horizontal stability of the aircraft. By happenstance, the minute change in length created enough space for an additional 66 gallon (250 litres) fuel tank installation behind the pilot seat. Inert exhaust gases were routed to the fuel tanks to help improve the survivability of the aircraft and pilot by reducing the likelihood of fuel fires if enemy gunfire punctured the fuel tanks. Other improvements included strengthening the landing gear, larger main wheels, extending the canopy glazing aft for better visibility, improved gunsight, updated configuration of the instrument panel and an overall increase to 750 rounds of ammunition per machine gun.

After making the recommended updates and changes, the heavily modified I-200/MiG-1 (fourth revision) made its maiden flight on 29 October 1940. The Soviet state accepted this version of the aircraft during December 1940 State acceptance trials and due to the significant changes made to the plane was renamed to MiG-3. Though the Mikoyan-Gurevich design bureau rectified many of the MiG-1's deficiencies, unfortunately, the resulting aircraft ended up being 550 lbs (250 kg) heavier and reduced service ceiling by 1,500 ft (457 m). They also took approximately a minute longer to reach 16,000 ft (4,900 m) than the original MiG-1s. Two other positive outcomes for the MiG-3 was an overall increase in the aircraft's speed at altitude and sea-level along with an increase in its service range.

Many of the initial MiG-3 airframes pushed out to the VVS regiments which were considered poor quality and unusable. After an inquiry completed, a panel found that the Soviet Air Force Research Institute was negligent in their duty to monitor the quality of the aircraft coming off the assembly line. After several demotions of senior managers and the execution of the institute head, new management set to address the problems with the MiG-3.

Though designed as a high-altitude bomber-interceptor, the MiG-3's pilot's oxygen supply was woefully inadequate, both fuel and oil pumps failed to keep necessary pressure at altitude and pilot inexperience with high altitude flying all played against the aircraft's abilities. Once again, the MiG Design Bureau set out to fix these deficiencies and when complete, the MiG-3 design teams optimized it for high altitude operations above 20,000 ft (6,000 m). Here the MiG-3 boasted almost a 20 mph (26 kph) speed advantage over the German Bf 109E, though at sea-level, this advantage disappeared and the MiG-3 had roughly the same top speed as the Bf 109.

The weapons of the MiG-3 always seemed lacking compared to other aircraft such as the Bf 109 which typically sported a 20 mm canon along with machine guns. MiG-3s of all iterations only had machine guns in the 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm varieties. Though experiments with wing-mounted gun pods and rockets took place, reduction of airspeed due to them often resulted in the pilots having them removed, one of the few times where fighter pilots prefered streamlined aircraft over firepower. Ultimately the new gun sight was not fit for the task, so pilots often relied on getting as close to the enemy aircraft as possible before opening fire, sometimes within point-blank range to ensure a hit.

Leading up to the German invasion titled Operation Barbarossa, MiG-3s found homes at front-line regiments. Here, they could ideally intercept any hostile bomber or reconnaissance aircraft that flew over such as the German Ju-86P. Unfortunately, at the beginning of the German invasion, the MiG-3, though one of the best fighters available to Soviet pilots, proved to be unsuited for the task at hand. Instead of intercepting bombers and reconnaissance aircraft, they instead fought more agile Bf 109s and such in a fashion which negated all of the MiG-3's advantages, and it struggled. With the Bf 109 being more agile and had better weapons, the MiG-3 fought for a foothold but often lost. It was around this time that other Soviet fighters such as the Yak and LaGG series aircraft were debuting and showing their effectiveness at lower altitude combat with more agility and better weapon options. Forcing the aircraft to work as a bomber and ground attack aircraft proved to be an, even more, less effective than as a low-altitude fighter.

Some Soviet pilots did find success while flying the MiG-3. Aleksander Pokryshkin was one such pilot, as his initial foray into air combat was at the controls of a MiG-3. It was while flying the MiG-3 that Pokryshkin scored several victories against the German Bf 109. However, it was also during this time he realized that Soviet air combat doctrine was outdated, and he took detailed notes of his and other's accounts at air combat to determine a better way to fight. Pokryshkin's experience in the MiG-3 helped shape future Soviet air combat tactics for pilots flying more capable aircraft such as the Yak-1B, P-39K and Lavochkin fighters. Pokryskin was quoted as saying, "The operational advantage of the MiG-3 seemed to be obscured by its certain defects. However, these advantages could undoubtedly be exploited by a pilot able to discover them."

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"Sanya V. Litvyak" collaboration camouflage

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

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" · 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 fighters
I-15  I-15 WR · I-15 M-22 · I-15 M-25 · I-15bis · Krasnolutsky's I-15bis
  I-153 M-62 · Zhukovsky's I-153-M62 · I-153P
I-16  I-16 type 5 · I-16 type 10 · I-16 type 18 · I-16 type 24 · I-16 type 27 · I-16 type 28 · I-180S
I-29  I-29
I-185  I-185 (M-71) · I-185 (M-82)
I-225  I-225
ITP  ITP (M-1)
MiG-3  MiG-3-15 · MiG-3-15 (BK) · MiG-3-34
LaGG  I-301 · LaGG-3-4 · LaGG-3-8 · LaGG-3-11 · LaGG-3-23 · LaGG-3-34 · LaGG-3-35 · LaGG-3-66
La  La-5 · La-5F · La-5FN · La-7 · Dolgushin's La-7 · La-7B-20 · La-9 · La-11
Yak-1/7  Yak-1 · Yak-1B · Yak-7B
Yak-3  Yak-3 · Yak-3P · Yak-3T · Yak-3U · Yak-3 (VK-107)
Yak-9  Yak-9 · Yak-9B · Golovachev's Yak-9M · Yak-9T · Yak-9K · Yak-9U · Yak-9UT · Yak-9P
Other countries  ▂P-40E-1 · ▂P-47D-27 · ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ▂Fw 190 D-9 · ▂Spitfire Mk IXc
P-39  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15
P-63  ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5