What is mig 23?

The MiG-23 (NATO reporting name: Flogger) is a variable-geometry fighter aircraft, designed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich design bureau in the Soviet Union. It is considered a third-generation jet fighter and was one of the Soviet Union's most potent combat aircraft during the Cold War.

• Role: Air superiority fighter, interceptor, ground-attack aircraft
• Origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Mikoyan-Gurevich
• First flight: 10 June 1967
• Introduction: 1970
• Primary users: Soviet Air Forces (later Russian Air Force), various other countries
• Produced: 1967–1985
• Number built: >5,000
• Variants: Numerous, including MiG-23S, MiG-23M, MiG-23MF, MiG-23ML, MiG-23MLD, MiG-23UB (trainer)

Key Features:

• Variable Geometry Wings: This allowed the aircraft to optimize performance for different flight regimes, such as takeoff, landing, cruise, and high-speed interception. The variable%20geometry%20wings could be swept back for high-speed flight or extended for better low-speed handling.
• Radar: Equipped with various radar systems depending on the variant, enabling it to detect and engage targets beyond visual range.
• Armament: Could carry a range of air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and bombs. Common missiles included the R-23 and R-60.
• Performance: High speed and good climb rate made it a capable interceptor.
• Limitations: Early versions suffered from reliability issues and poor visibility from the cockpit. The early%20versions had also suffered from flight control problems.

The MiG-23 saw extensive service in various conflicts around the world, including the Soviet-Afghan War, the Iran-Iraq War, and various Middle Eastern conflicts. It was exported to numerous countries and remained in service with some air forces well into the 21st century. The Soviet-Afghan%20War and the Iran-Iraq%20War was a crucial point for this aircraft.