Sergo

In a issue of Combat Aircraft Monthly from a few months ago, some rather interesting tidbits came out about Iran's MiG-29 fleet. Here are the highlights:

- The original IRIAF order for MiG-29s wasfor 20 aircraft (14 single-seaters, 6 trainers)
- Included in this contract was 150 R-27, 400 R-60MK, and 300 R-73E missiles
- After the failed delivery MiG-21PFs (which were apparently intendednot for the IRIAF but the IRGC), the IRGC ordered 11 additional MiG-29s (single seaters).
- Of these 11 additional MiG-29s, only 4 were delivered due to the dissolution of the USSR. However, noneentered IRGCAF service as we all know.
- One MiG-29 was lost over the Caspian Sea during the delivery flight of the MiG-29s to Iran, with the Russian pilot dying.
- 48 more MiG-29s were ordered in1992, with delivery meant to start in 1993-1994. However Russia cancelled the contract due to political pressure from abroad and within.
- 4 Iraqi MiG-29s (3 single-seaters, 1 trainer) did arrive inIran. However, the three single-seaters never entered service and instead had their engines removed to help maintain their current fleet. The single trainer was however inducted into the IRIAF(explaining why we have spotted 7 trainers over the years).
- Iran attempted to acquire 40 MiG-29s from Ukraine but due to US pressure, Ukraine refused.
- As now well known, Iran attempted to purchaseMiG-29S from Moldova but the US bought the aircraft first.
- In 2007 Iran and Russia negotiated an agreement to better maintain modernize Iran's MiG-29 fleet. This deal would include 50 new RD-33engines, Service-life Extensions for 20 years, a comprehensive Avionics upgrade, and retractable refueling probe.
- However, while the 50 RD-33s and other vital spare parts were delivered, the rest of thecontract was left unfulfilled.
- Regardless, Iran pursued other avenues of improving the serviceability of the MiG-29 fleet. This includes upgrading minor systems (such as ILS and MFDs) with help...