Mikoyan MiG-23 / Sukhoi Su-22

Mikoyan MiG-23 / Sukhoi Su-22

Type: fighter

Domain: air

Country of Origin: Angola

Manufacturer: Mikoyan / Sukhoi (Russia)

Overview

Soviet-era swing-wing fighter-bombers remaining operational in Angolan service representing legacy of Cold War support. Angola inherited substantial fleet of MiG-23 Flogger and Su-22 Fitter from Soviet support during Angolan Civil War (1975-2002). Both types feature variable-geometry wings, R-23/R-24 missiles (MiG-23), air-to-ground weapons, and rugged construction. However, decades of limited maintenance, spare parts shortages, and aging airframes reduced operational readiness significantly. Current operational status limited with perhaps handful potentially flyable using cannibalized parts. Primarily used for training and potentially ground attack missions when operational. Represents declining Soviet legacy fleet being replaced by modern Su-30K. Angolan efforts maintaining airworthiness difficult without Russian spare parts support. Future uncertain with eventual retirement likely.

Technical Specifications

era1970s–1980s design
su22_range~1,380 km
su22_speedMach 1.74
mig23_range~1,150 km
mig23_speedMach 2.35
su22_armamentVariable-geometry wing, bombs/rockets/guided munitions
mig23_armamentVariable-geometry wing, R-23/R-60 missiles

Operators

Related air Weapon Systems