Mikoyan MIG 29K Fulcrum

The carrier-capable fighter built for naval operations.

Editorial Team

Overview

Mikoyan Gurevich Russia 1999–Present $27 million

The Mikoyan MiG-29K is a navalized variant of the MiG-29 designed for aircraft carrier operations. Reinforced for catapult launches and arrested recoveries, it provides multirole capability at sea. The aircraft serves with naval aviation forces.

Specifications

Units
Engine
—
Engine type
-
Thrust
19,900 lbf · 89 kN
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
2 economy · 1 business
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
—
Tail height
—
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
—
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
119,000 lb  ·  54,000 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
6,600 lb  ·  3,000 kg
Fuel capacity
Max cruise speed
1,134 kt  ·  1,305 mph  ·  2,100 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
—
Fuel burn
0.82 nm/gal  ·  0.40 km/L
Ceiling
—
Rate of climb
—
Takeoff distance
400 ft  ·  120 m
Landing distance
550 ft  ·  170 m
(/) tap to zoom
(/)

Operational Context

Mikoyan MiG-29K Fulcrum — carrier-based multirole fighter

The MiG-29K was originally developed in the 1980s for Soviet aircraft carrier programs. After a pause in development, it was revived in the 2000s for export and domestic naval requirements. The aircraft incorporates strengthened landing gear, folding wings, and corrosion protection for maritime use.

Powered by two Klimov RD-33MK engines producing approximately 19,000 pounds of thrust (84 kN) each with afterburner, the MiG-29K can exceed Mach 2. Maximum takeoff weight is roughly 54,000 pounds (24,500 kg). It carries air-to-air missiles, precision-guided munitions, and anti-ship weapons.

The MiG-29K operates from aircraft carriers using ski-jump launch systems. It has been adopted by naval forces seeking a medium-weight carrier fighter. The aircraft extends the Fulcrum’s capabilities into maritime operations.