The MiG-23 was designed in 1964-66 as a successor to the MiG-21. In addition to a much more powerful engine, the MiG-23's most significant new feature was its variable sweep wing. Like the USAF's swing wing F-111, the sweep of the wings could be changed in flight. Fully spread, this gives a shorter takeoff/landing roll while carrying a heavier weapons load. With the wings fully swept back, the MiG-23 has greater speed. The wing has three sweep settings: 16, 45, and 72 degrees. The prototype first flew in April 1967 and MiG-23s began entering operational service in 1971. The MiG-23MLD is the most advanced version of the MiG-23 Flogger. It features a distinctive notch in the leading edge of the wing glove to improve angle of attack handling. The MiG-23 operational experience in Afghanistan prompted the modification of late production MiG-23MLDs, and these aircraft were equipped with a more sophisticated SPO-15L radar warning receiver that located more accurately the approaching direction of any hostile aircraft.
Please see the paint guide below for Trumpeter’s suggested colors.
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Product Details:
Scale: 1/48
Parts: 260+
Length: 14.4”
Wingspan: 11.5”
- Painting and assembly required
- Clear parts for canopy
- Photo-etched seat belts and harnesses
- Detailed fuselage
- 17 sprues
- Variable wing sweep
- Optional position flaps
- Plenty of external loads
- Detailed cockpit and gear cabin
- Decals
- Illustrated instructions
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Paint Guides:
Khaki
Khaki Green
Light Gull Grey
Green
Flat Black
Light Blue
Silver
Dark Compass Ghost Grey
Russian Green
Tire Black
Burnt Iron
Black
Grey
White Insignia
White
Green
Grey Blue
Matte Cockpit Green
Interior Green
Grey Light Brown
Dark Grey
Sandy Brown
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