MiG-23 vs. Sukhoi Su-24

The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23, known by its NATO reporting name "Flogger," is a third-generation jet fighter developed by the Soviet Union in the late 1960s. The MiG-23 was designed to meet the need for a more versatile and capable fighter, capable of achieving Mach 2.35 speeds, and was introduced as a successor to the MiG-21. It served in various roles, including interceptor, ground-attack, and scouting.

Production History: The MiG-23 was introduced into service with the Soviet Air Forces in 1970. Over its production life, which spanned two decades, more than 5,000 units were built, making it one of the most produced fighter aircraft of its time. The MiG-23 was exported widely, serving in the air forces of over 30 countries, and saw action in numerous conflicts during the latter half of the 20th century.

Design Features: The MiG-23's most notable feature is its swing-wing design, which allows the wings to be set at different angles to optimize performance at various speeds. At lower speeds, the wings could be extended for better lift and maneuverability, while at higher speeds, they could be swept back to reduce drag. The aircraft was powered by a single large turbojet engine, equipped with an afterburner for additional thrust.

Operational History: The MiG-23 saw combat in several Middle Eastern conflicts, including the Yom Kippur War, the Iran-Iraq War, and the Syrian Civil War. It was used extensively by the Soviet Union in Afghanistan during the 1980s, where it was employed in both air-to-air combat and ground-attack roles. Despite its advanced design, the MiG-23 faced challenges in terms of maintenance and operational readiness, particularly in the hands of less experienced air forces.

Comparison with Similar Models:

MiG-23 vs. F-4 Phantom II

Role and Capabilities: Both the MiG-23 and F-4 Phantom II were designed as multi-role fighters capable of performing both air superiority and ground-attack missions. The MiG-23's variable-geometry wings provided it with a broader performance envelope, especially in terms of speed and altitude capabilities.

Performance: The F-4 Phantom II, while older, was known for its reliability, heavy payload, and versatility. In contrast, the MiG-23 offered better agility at high speeds and a more sophisticated radar and missile armament for air-to-air engagements.

MiG-23 vs. F-14 Tomcat

Design Evolution: The F-14 Tomcat and the MiG-23 were both developed around the same time and featured variable-geometry wings. This design was chosen by both manufacturers for similar reasons: to provide excellent performance across a wide range of speeds and altitudes.

Operational Capabilities: The F-14 was primarily designed as a fleet defense interceptor for the U.S. Navy and excelled in long-range air-to-air engagements. The MiG-23, while also capable in the interceptor role, was more versatile, being used extensively in ground-attack missions in addition to air superiority roles.

The Sukhoi Su-24 "Fencer" is a supersonic attack aircraft developed by the Soviet Union and introduced into service in the late 1970s. Designed primarily for deep strike missions, the Su-24 has a variable-sweep wing design that enables it to perform at high speeds at low altitudes. Its robust avionics suite allows for precision strikes in all weather conditions, making it a key asset for the Russian Air Force and other countries.

Production History: Development of the Su-24 began in the late 1960s, with the goal of replacing older Soviet bombers with a more versatile and capable platform. The aircraft entered service in 1974, with production continuing until 1993. Over this period, approximately 1,400 Su-24s were produced.

Design Features: The Su-24's most distinctive feature is its variable-sweep wing, which allows the aircraft to optimize performance across a broad range of speeds and mission profiles. Powered by two afterburning turbojet engines, it can reach speeds of up to Mach 1.35. The "Fencer" is equipped with a sophisticated navigation and attack system that integrates terrain-following radar and laser-guided bombs, allowing it to conduct precision strikes under adverse weather.

Operational History: The Su-24 has seen extensive operational use in various conflicts since its introduction, including in Afghanistan, Chechnya, Syria, and Ukraine. Its ability to deliver precision strikes in all weather conditions has proven invaluable in supporting ground operations and achieving air superiority. Despite its age, the Su-24 remains in service with a few air forces, undergoing upgrades to extend its operational life and combat effectiveness.

Comparison with Similar Models:

Su-24 "Fencer" vs. Panavia Tornado

Mission Flexibility: Both aircraft were designed for low-level, high-speed penetration and precision strike missions. While the Tornado features a similar variable-sweep wing design for versatility, it has been deployed more extensively in NATO operations, benefiting from joint development by Italy, the UK, and Germany.

Avionics and Weapons Systems: The Su-24's avionics and targeting systems were pioneering for their time, but the Tornado has seen more extensive modernization in Western air forces, incorporating newer technology and precision-guided munitions for a broader range of missions.

Su-24 "Fencer" vs. F-111 Aardvark

Design Philosophy and Capabilities: The Su-24 and the F-111 share a similar design philosophy, focusing on deep penetration strike capabilities. The F-111, serving primarily with the United States Air Force, featured a greater emphasis on electronic warfare and strategic bombing roles.

Operational Use and Legacy: While the F-111 was retired from service in the early 21st century, the Su-24 continues to operate in several air forces, with ongoing upgrades keeping it relevant. Both aircraft have left a legacy in terms of their all-weather, long-range strike capabilities.