David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:19pm
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12 Gauge Shotgun
Function: Manually operated (pump), repeating shotgun.
History: Various models of shotgun have been in service use since 1901. The current inventory consists of four different 12 gauge shotgun models: Remington 870, Winchester 1200, Mossberg 500, and Mossberg 590 (weight and length of the weapon depend on the manufacturer.
Description: The 12 gauge shotgun is a manually operated (pump), repeating shotgun, with a seven-round tubular magazine, a modified choke barrel, ghost ring sights, and is equipped with a bayonet attachment, sling swivels and a standard length military stock with phenolic plastic buttplate (some models have wooden and/or folding stocks). This special purpose individual weapon is used for guard duty, prisoner supervision, local security, riot control, and any situation which requires the use of armed personnel with inherent limited range and ammunition penetration.
General Characteristics, 12 Gauge Shotgun
Length:
41.75 inches (106.05 centimeters)
Weight:
8 pounds (3.63 kilograms)
Bore Diameter:
12 gauge
Maximum Effective Range:
50 yards (45.7 meters) with "00" buckshot load
Unit Replacement Cost:
$600
Date Deployed:
January 1964
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:43pm
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AN/GAU-8 30mm Cannon
Description: The AN/GAU-8 Avenger 30mm gun system was specifically built to serve as a Close Air Support "Tank Buster." Similar to the earlier M61 20mm Vulcan design, the Avenger uses seven barrels to achieve a rate of fire of 3,900 rounds per minute. The Avenger fires a mix of 30mm electrically primed PGU-13/B High Explosive Incendiary (HEI) rounds and PGU-14/B Armor Piercing Incendiary (API) rounds. While the HEI rounds provide the Avenger the ability to destroy light skinned vehicles, the weapon's real punch is delivered by the API rounds, each of which incorporates over half a pound of super-dense Depleted Uranium (DU.) At 1,200 meters (4,000 feet) a 2 second burst from the AN/GAU-8 will deliver 100 rounds containing 65 pounds of DU and place 80 percent of these projectiles within 20 feet of the target.
The AN/GAU-8 is used exclusively by the United States Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II, a dedicated Close Air Support aircraft which was essentially designed around the Avenger gun system.
Background: Soon after the end of the Second World War the newly formed United States Air Force identified a need for an improved gun system for its aircraft. While adequate as an air combat / ground attack weapon during World War Two, the Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun had been rendered obsolete by jet aircraft and needed to be replaced by a weapon with increased range, rate of fire, and projectile lethality. Realizing that singled barreled automatic weapons had essentially reached their design limits, the U.S. Army Ordnance Research and Development Service hit on the idea of re-introducing the multi-barreled rotary weapon invented by Richard J. Gatling in the 1880s. Initial tests proved promising as a vintage Gatling gun, now powered by an electric motor in place of the usual hand crank, was able to achieve rates of fire in excess of 4,000 rounds per minute.
In 1946 the General Electric company received the contract for this new program, code named "Project Vulcan," and was tasked with producing functional prototypes in a number of calibers for further testing. In 1952 GE produced three different guns; .60 caliber, 20mm, and 27mm. After extensive testing, the 20mm version was selected for further testing to determine its suitability as an aircraft mounted weapon. In 1956 the gun was standardized as the M61 20mm cannon and entered service with both the United States Army and Air Force.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:51pm
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Phalanx Close-In Weapons
Function: Anti-ship missile defense.
Description: Phalanx provides ships of the U.S. Navy with a "last-chance" defense against anti-ship missiles and littoral warfare threats that have penetrated other fleet defenses. Phalanx automatically detects, tracks and engages anti-air warfare threats such as anti-ship missiles and aircraft, while the Block 1B's man-in-the-loop system counters the emerging littoral warfare threat. This new threat includes small,high-speed surface craft, small terrorist aircraft, helicopters and surface mines. Phalanx accomplishes these engagements via an advanced search and track radar system integrated with a stabilized, forward looking infra-red (FLIR) detector. This integrated FLIR provides Phalanx with an unique multi-spectral detect and track capability for littoral warfare threats and dramatically improves the existing anti-air warfare capability. Block 1B also incorporates new Optimized Gun Barrels which provide improved barrel life, improved round dispersion and increased engagement ranges.
Phalanx is the only deployed close-in weapon system capable of autonomously performing its own search, detect, evaluation, track, engage and kill assessment functions. Phalanx also can be integrated into existing Combat Systems to provide additonal sensor and fire-control capability.
History: The Phalanx Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) underwent operational tests and evaluation onboard USS Bigelow in 1977, and exceeded maintenance and reliability specifications. Phalanx production started in 1978 with orders for 23 USN and 14 Foreign Military Sales (FMS) systems.
General Characteristics, Phalanx Close-In Weapons System
Contractor:
Raytheon Systems Company (formerly Hughes Missile Systems Company and purchased from General Dynamics Pomona Division in 1992)
Weight:
12,500 pounds (5,625 kilograms) - Later models: 13,600 pounds (6,120 kilograms)
Range:
Classified
Gun Type:
M-61A1 Gatling
Type of Fire:
3,000 rounds per minute
Later models: 4,500 rounds/min (starting 1988 production, Pneumatic Gun Drive)
Magazine Capacity:
989 rounds
Later models: 1,550 rounds
Caliber:
20mm
Ammunition:
Armor Piercing Discarding Sabot (APDS), Depleted Uranium sub-caliber penetrator (penetrator changed to Tungsten 1988; Block 1B will incorporate the new Enhanced Lethality Cartridge with a heavier penetrator)
Sensors:
Self-contained search and track radar with integrated FLIR
Date Deployed:
1980 (aboard USS Coral Sea)
Block 1: 1988 (aboard USS Wisconsin)
Block 1B: 1999 (aboard USS Underwood)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:51pm
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Mark 38 25mm Machine Gun
Function: Single barrel, air cooled, semi- and full-automatic, manually trained and elevated machine gun system.
Description: The MK-38 is a 25-mm (one inch diameter) heavy machine gun, effective to 2,700 yards (2,457 meters).
History: The MK 38 machine gun system (MGS) was employed aboard various combatant and auxiliary ships in the Mid-East Force escort operations and during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. The weapons are maintained in a rotatable pool, available for temporary installation on various deploying ships and permanent installation on certain amphibious and auxiliary ships, patrol craft and Coast Guard cutters.
General Characteristics, Mark 38 25m Machine Gun System
Contractor:
Designed and assembled by Crane Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center; components procured from various contractors
Range:
2,700 yards (2,457 meters)
Guidance System:
Unstabilized, manually trained and elevated
Type of Fire:
Single shot; 175 rounds per minute automatic
Rates of Fire:
25 mm (1 inch)
Date Deployed:
1986
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:51pm
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Mark 75 3"/62 Calibe
Function: Single barrel, lightweight, water-cooled, rapid fire, remote controlled, dual purpose automatic enclosed naval gun.
Description: A lightweight, rapid-fire three-inch gun mounted on small combat vessels.
History: Because of performance, lightweight and low manning requirements, the MK 75 is suited for installation on small combat vessels. Current usage includes one gun mount each for some Navy frigates and hydrofoils, and for one gun mount each for the larger Coast Guard cutters. The Mark 75 was provisionally approved for service use in September 1975.
The Naval Systems Division (NSD) of FMC Corporation and General Electric Co. (Ordnance Systems Division) were both licensed by the gun's designer, OTO Melara of La Spezia, Italy, and competed for the right to manufacture the MK-75 in the United States. In 1975, FMC/NSD won the competition. Since 1981, however, all MK 75 buys have been competed for by FMC/NSD and OTO Melara.
The first United States produced gun mount was delivered in August 1978.
General Characteristics, Mark 75 3"/62 Caliber Gun
Contractor:
Designed by OTO Melara, Italy
Manufactured by FMC Naval Systems Division and OTO Melara
Caliber:
76 mm (3 inch)
Range:
10 nautical miles (11.5 statue miles, 18.4 km)
Guidance System:
Remotely controlled
Type of Fire:
80 rounds per minute automatic
Date Deployed:
1978
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:51pm
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Torpedoes: Mark 46, Mark
Function: Self-propelled guided projectile that operates underwater and is designed to detonate on contact or in proximity to a target.
Description: Torpedoes may be launched from submarines, surface ships, helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. They are also used as parts of other weapons; the Mark 46 torpedo becomes the warhead section of the ASROC (Anti-Submarine ROCket) and the Captor mine uses a submerged sensor platform that releases a torpedo when a hostile contact is detected. The three major torpedoes in the Navy inventory are the Mark 48 heavyweight torpedo, the Mark 46 lightweight and the Mark 50 advanced lightweight.
The MK-48 is designed to combat fast, deep-diving nuclear submarines and high performance surface ships. It is carried by all Navy submarines. The improved version, MK-48 ADCAP, is carried by attack submarines, the Ohio class ballistic missile submarines and will be carried by the Seawolf class attack submarines. The MK-48 replaced both the MK-37 and MK-14 torpedoes. The MK-48 has been operational in the U.S. Navy since 1972. MK-48 ADCAP became operational in 1988 and was approved for full production in 1989.
The MK-46 torpedo is designed to attack high performance submarines, and is presently identified as the NATO standard. The MK-46 Mod 5 torpedo is the backbone of the Navy's lightweight ASW torpedo inventory and is expected to remain in service until the year 2015.
The MK-50 is an advanced lightweight torpedo for use against the faster, deeper-diving and more sophisticated submarines. The MK-50 can be launched from all ASW aircraft, and from torpedo tubes aboard surface combatant ships. The MK-50 will eventually replace the MK-46 as the fleet's lightweight torpedo.
MK-48 and MK-48 ADCAP torpedoes can operate with or without wire guidance and use active and/or passive homing. When launched they execute programmed target search, acquisition and attack procedures. Both can conduct multiple reattacks if they miss the target. The MK-46 torpedo is designed to be launched from surface combatant torpedo tubes, ASROC missiles and fixed and rotary wing aircraft. In 1989, a major upgrade program began to enhance the performance of the MK-46 Mod 5 in shallow water. Weapons incorporating these improvements are identified as Mod 5A and Mod 5A(S).
General Characteristics, MK-48, MK-48 (ADCAP)
Primary Function:
Heavyweight torpedo for submarines
Contractor:
Gould
Power Plant:
Piston engine; pump jet
Length:
19 feet (5.79 meters)
Weight:
MK-48: 3,434 pounds (1545.3 kilograms)
MK-48 ADCAP: 3,695 pounds (1662.75 kilograms)
Diameter:
21 inches (53.34 centimeters)
Range:
Greater than 5 miles (8 km)
Depth:
Greater than 1,200 feet (365.76 meters)
Speed:
Greater than 28 knots (32.2 mph, 51.52 kph)
Guidance System:
Wire guided and passive/active acoustic homing
Warhead:
650 lbs (292.5 kg) high explosive
Date Deployed:
1972
General Characteristics, MK-46 MOD 5
Primary Function:
Air and ship-launched lightweight torpedo
Contractor:
Alliant TechSystems
Power Plant:
Two-speed, reciprocating external combustion; Mono-propellant (Otto fuel II) fueled
Length:
102.36 in. tube launch configuration (from ship)
Weight:
517.65 lbs (warshot configuration)
Diameter:
12.75 inches
Range:
8,000 yards
Depth:
Greater than 1,200 feet (365.76 meters)
Speed:
Greater than 28 knots (32.2 mph, 51.52 kph)
Guidance System:
Homing mode: Active or passive/active acoustic homing
Launch/Search Mode:
Snake or circle search
Warhead:
98 lbs. of PBXN-103 high explosive (bulk charge)
Date Deployed:
1966 (Mod 0)
1979 (Mod 5)
General Characteristics, MK-50
Primary Function:
Air and ship-launched lightweight torpedo
Contractor:
Alliant Techsystems, Westinghouse
Power Plant:
Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion System
Length:
112 inches
Weight:
750 pounds
Diameter:
12.75 inches
Speed:
40+ knots
Guidance System:
Active/passive acoustic homing
Warhead:
Approximately 100 pounds high explosive (shaped charge)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:51pm
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Mark 45 5" / 54-Cali
Function: Fully-automatic, lightweight gun mount.
Description: The 54-caliber (Mk 45) lightweight gun provides surface combatants accurate naval gunfire against fast, highly maneuverable surface targets, air threats and shore targets during amphibious operations.
Background: This lightweight gun system offers significant improvements in reliability and maintainability over the 54-caliber Mk 42 gun systems. The Mk 45 is controlled by either the Mk 86 Gun Fire Control System or the Mk 160 Gun Computing System.
General Characteristics, Mark 45 5"/ 54-Caliber Lightweight Gun
Caliber:
5 inch (12.7 cm)
Range:
13 nautical miles (14.9 statue miles)
Magazine Capacity:
475-500 rounds per magazine
Type of Fire:
16-20 rounds per minute automatic
Date Deployed:
1971 (Mark 45)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
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MiG-21 Fishbed
Function: High performance Cold War era air combat and air superiority fighter.
History: Originally designed as a replacement for the MiG-19 Farmer, the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau passed on sophisticated technology in favor of pure airframe performance using solid, reliable technology which was easy to maintain. The end result was Soviet workhorse capable of performing a wide variety of missions, from close air support, to tactical aerial reconnaissance to air superiority and air combat. The MiG-21 design has been so successful that more MiG-21s have been produced than any other fighter aircraft and, 25 years after its introduction, it is still in production in a number of countries. The first prototype flew in 1955 and its existence was made public in 1956. Conceived as high performance daylight fighter-interceptor, the Fishbed sacrificed endurance and all weather capability for pure speed and aerobatic performance. Although the MiG-21 lacked the ordinance capacity of its contemporaries, the F-4 Phantom II and the F-105 Thunderchief, it was more maneuverable, and because of its simple design, it was both easier and cheaper to maintain by the cash poor countries which purchased it.
Since its introduction over 15 different variants of the Fishbed have been produced. Initial prototypes MiG-21s (Fishbed-B) were armed with two NR-30 30mm cannons but this was reduced to one in later (Fishbed-C) production runs as the Soviet Union followed the West in converting fighters from gun to missile platforms. In addition to eliminating one of the cannons, the Fishbed-C had an increased internal fuel capacity and launch rails for two AA-2 Atoll IR Missiles or rocket pods for ground support missions. The Fishbed-D eliminated the internal cannon armament while increasing internal fuel load as well as redesigning the Spin Scan radar located in the movable nose cone. The Fishbed-E is essentially a sub variant of the D model, incorporating a number of minor modifications, including the reintroduction of a cannon armament in the form of a GP 9 gun pod. The Fishbed-F was the final "first generation" production aircraft. In addition to improvements in the fuselage, internal fuel capacity and control surfaces, the F model incorporated a new radar which allowed it to fire semi-active medium range radar homing air to air missiles.
The "Second Generation" MiG-21s represented a divergence from the original lightweight fighter concept. These aircraft would be characterized by larger fuel loads, more advanced electronics, greater ordnance capacity, and better performance. The first of the "Second Generation" aircraft were the Fishbed-H, a dedicated reconnaissance and offensive electronic warfare variant, and the Fishbed-J, which dispensed with the GP 9 pod in favor of a single, internally mounted GSh-23L 23mm cannon. Wing pylons were also increased from two to four. The last of the "Second Generation" MiG-21s introduced was the Fishbed-H which was similar to the J but featured a greatly enlarged dorsal spine which housed additional fuel. Unfortunately this increased weight so reduced performance that its carrying capacity had to be cut by 50 percent.
"Third Generation" Fishbeds represent the final iteration of MiG-21 evolution. Though "Third Generation" aircraft represent a real improvement over earlier versions, in comparison to current aircraft, the lack of a Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile capability, poor endurance and poor slow speed/high G handling limit its combat utility. The Fishbed-L was the first of the next generation aircraft, incorporating numerous technological improvements, and was designed with low altitude performance in mind. Though the MiG-21 remains in limited production in a number of countries, the Fishbed is likely to remain in service for many more years, thanks to an aggressive aftermarket product improvement program. Many countries, such as Israel, Russia, India, and China offer aftermarket upgrade packages, where countries can refit older versions of the MiG-21 with more advanced, to include Western technology, components.
General Characteristics, MiG-21 Fishbed
Designer:
Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau
Power Plant:
Fishbed-F: one Tumanskii R-11F2S-300 turbojet rated at 8,600 pounds thrust dry and 13,613 pounds thrust on afterburner
Fishbed-J: one Tumanskii/Gavrilov R-13-300 turbojet rated at 8,972 pounds thrust dry and 14,307 pounds thrust on afterburner
Fishbed-L: one Tumanskii R-25-300 turbojet rated at 9,038 pounds thrust dry and 15,653 pounds thrust on afterburner; the R-25-300 is capable of producing 21,825 pounds of thrust above Mach 1 and up to 13,000 feet for periods of up to three minutes
Length:
12.285 meters (40 feet, 3.9 inches)
Height:
4.125 meters (13 feet, 6.2 inches)
Wingspan:
7.154 meters (23 feet, 5.7 inches)
Speed:
Fishbed-F: 2,125 kmh (1,320 mph) at 11,000 meters (36,090 feet)
Fishbed-J: 2,230 kmh (1,385 mph) at 11,000 meters (36,090 feet); maximum level speed at sea level 1,300 kmh (807 mph)
Fishbed-L: 2175 kmh (1,351.5 mph) at 13000 meters (42,650 feet)
Ceiling:
Fishbed-F: 19,000 meters (62,335 feet)
Fishbed-J: 18,200 meters (59,711 feet)
Fishbed-N: 17,500 meters (57,415 feet)
Weight:
Fishbed-F: 5,350 kilograms (11,795 pounds) empty
Fishbed-J: 5350 kilograms (11,795 pounds) empty
Fishbed-N: 5450 kg (12,015 pounds) empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
Fishbed-F: 9,080 kilograms (20,018 pounds)
Fishbed-J: 9,400 kilograms (20,723 pounds)
Fishbed-N: 10,400 kilograms (22,928 pounds)
Range:
Fishbed-F: Maximum ferry range with one external fuel tank 1300 kilometers (808 miles)
Fishbed-J: Maximum ferry range with three external fuel tanks 1,800 km (1,118 miles)
Fishbed-N: Maximum ferry range with one external fuel tank 1,470 km (913 miles)
Crew:
One
Armament:
Fishbed-F: One NR-30 30mm cannon in an external pod plus either two AA-2 short range Infrared homing air to air missiles or up to 500kg (1,100 pounds) of external ordnance on two pylons
Fishbed-J,N: One GSh-23L internally mounted 23mm cannon plus either four air to air missiles or up to 2000 kilograms (4,409 pounds) of external ordnance carried on four pylons
Date Deployed:
1956 (Fishbed-C)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
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MiG-29 Fulcrum
Function: High speed, high altitude, long range interceptor.
Description: Designed in 1972 to replace the aging MiG-21 and MiG-23, the Fulcrum represented a revolutionary devlopement in Soviet fighter aircraft performance. Though lacking the sophisticated electronics and "fly-by-wire" systems of contemporary Western aircraft like the American F-16 Falcon and the F-15 Eagle, the MiG-29's agility and maneuverability make it their equal in term of performance. In addition, the MiG-29 incorperates a unique forward looking infrared target aquisition system which allows the Fulcrum to aquire and engage targets with heat seeking missiles or its internally mounted cannon without being detected by radar-detecting threat warning recievers. To take advantage of the MiG-29's incredable turning ability, the pilot is equiped with a helmet mounted target designation reticle which can be used to designate and engage targets outside of the fighter's forward plane of travel.
Entering service in 1984 as the Fulcrum-A, the current production model is the Fulcrum-C, which incorperates a redesigned fuselage and increased internal fuel capacity.
General Characteristics, MiG-29 Fulcrum-A
Designer:
Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau
Power Plant:
Two Sarkisov RD-33 afterburning turbofans
Thrust:
18,300 pounds each
Length:
17.32 meters (56.83 feet)
Height:
4.73 meters (15.5 feet)
Wingspan:
11.36 meters (37.25 feet)
Speed:
2,455 kmh (1,520 mph) at 30,000 feet
Ceiling:
17,000 meters (55,775 feet)
Weight:
15,240.7 kilograms (33,600 pounds) empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
18,499.8 kilograms (40,785 pounds)
Range:
2,100 kilometers (1,300 miles)
Crew:
One
Armament:
One GSh-30-1 30mm internally mounted cannon with 150 rounds of ammunition
3,000 kilograms (6,614 pounds) of external ordinance including missiles, rockets, gravity bombs, and guided munitions carried on six hardpoints
Date Deployed:
1984
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
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Su-24 Fencer
Function: Cold War era high performance, low level, all weather tactical fighter bomber.
History: Conceived in the 60's as a replacement for the Su-17/20/22 Fitter series fighter-bomber, the Su-24 Fencer was the first Soviet aircraft to incorporate an integrated combat avionics system combining a computer bombsight, weapons control system and anavigation/terrain avoidance system. Though this was a very ambitious project (roughly equivalent to the contemporary American FB-111 Aardvark project) Soviet designers recognized that advances in Surface to Air Missile (SAM) technology had rendered level bombers such as the Ilyushin Il-28 and Yak-28 obsolete. In order to survive on the modern SAM infested battlefield, bombers would need to be capable of high speed (Mach 1 plus) low level penetrations in all weather conditions, depending on terrain masking, electronic jamming and precision weapons delivery to accomplish their mission. Lastly, in order to meet Soviet multi mission capabilities, the new aircraft would have to be adaptable to tactical reconnaissance and air interceptor missions.
An early test aircraft incorporating a delta wing VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing) design with separate lift and cruising engines was abandoned because of poor low level handling characteristics. Successes with the variable geometry wings of the MiG-23 Flogger interceptor and Su-17 Fitter offered another option; variable geometry allowed for acceptable performance at all altitudes and airspeeds. The first successful flight test of the Fencer-A occurred in 1970. Initial Fencer-A production aircraft were equipped with variable aperture intakes on the engines, which allowed for a high altitude maximum speed above Mach 2, but since the Su-24 wouldn't be spending much of it's life at high altitude, and such speeds were not possible at low altitude, the actuators were later dropped to save weight and reduce maintenance requirements.
Although NATO currently recognizes numerous variants of the Su-24, these variants do not represent the same degree of technological improvement that is present in the Su-27 Flanker series. Instead, the Su-24 variants represent product improvement steps, similar to the developement of the MiG-21, rather than wholesale design changes. Still in production, the Su-24 Fencer remains a capable aircraft. Many Fencer-B and C models remain in service with the Russian Air Force as well as many of the former Soviet Republics.
General Characteristics, Su-24 Fencer
Designer:
Sukhoi Design Bureau
Power Plant:
Two NPO Lyul'ka AL-21F-3A
turbojets
Thrust:
Each rated at 17,196 pounds thrust dry and 24,802 pounds thrust with afterburner
Length:
24.53 meters (80 feet, 5.75 inches)
Height:
6.19 meters (20 feet, 3 inches)
Wingspan:
17.63 meters (57 feet, 10 inches) fully extended; 10.36 meters (34 feet) fully swept
Speed:
1,470 kmh (913 mph) at sea level
2,320 kmh (1,441 mph) at 11000 meters (36,090 feet)
Ceiling:
17,500 meters (57,415 feet)
Weight:
19,000 kg (41,887 pounds) empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
39,700 kilograms (87,522 pounds)
Range:
Maximum combat radius 1,050 kilometers (650 miles)
Crew:
Two
Armament:
One GSh-6N-30 30mm internally mounted cannon (one GSh-6-23M 23mm cannon in early models)
8000 kilograms (17,637 pounds) of external ordinance including missiles, rockets, nuclear gravity bombs, and guided munitions carried on 7 hardpoints
Date Deployed:
1974
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
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Su-27 Flanker-B
Function: High performance air combat and air superiority fighter.
History: Developed in the late 1960s as a dedicated air superiority fighter, the Flanker combines the maneuverability of the MiG-29 Fulcrum with the precision "fly-by-wire" flight controls found on Western fighters as well as an incrediable payload of ten Air to Air Missiles (AAM). Entering service in 1984, the basic Su-27 design has produced a number of variants, including the Su-27IB (or Su-34), a side by side tandem seat tactical fighter bomber similar in function to the American FB-111 Aardvark, and the Su-27UB Flanker-C (or Su-30) another tandem designed used as a long range interceptor and trainer. Additionally, the Su-27 has been converted for use on Russian aircraft carriers as the Su-27K (or Su-33) which incorperates strengthined landing gear, folding wings, a retractable in-flight refueling probe, an arrestor hook assembly, and movable forward mounted canards.
Though currently in service with the Russian Airforce and available for export, the Su-27 is being replaced by the much improved Su-35 and the vectored thrust Su-37.
General Characteristics, Su-27 Flanker-B
Designer:
Sukhoi Design Bureau
Power Plant:
Two Lyulka AL-31F afterburning turbofans
Thrust:
27,557 pounds each
Length:
21.94 meters (71.98 feet)
Height:
5.93 meters (19.45 feet)
Wingspan:
14.7 meters (48.22 feet)
Speed:
2,500 kmh (1,553 mph) at 30,000 feet
Ceiling:
18,000 meters (59,055 feet)
Weight:
20,774 kilograms (45,801 pounds) empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
30,000 kilograms (66,138 pounds)
Range:
4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles)
Crew:
One (two in some variants)
Armament:
One GSh-30-1 30mm internally mounted cannon with 150 rounds of ammunition
6,000 kilograms (13,228 pounds) of external ordinance including missiles, rockets, gravity bombs, and guided munitions carried on 10 hardpoints
Date Deployed:
1984
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
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Su-35 Flanker
Function: Multi role air superiority, ground attack fighter.
Description: Developed as a variant to the Su-27 Flanker B, the Su-35 is an improved version of the earlier aircraft, incorperating many of the new systems found on the Su-34 strike aircraft. These improvements include improved offensive and defensive avionics, movable forward mounted canards for increased maneuverability, an advanced pulse doppler pased array radar in the nose as well as a rearward facing radar capqable of detecting, tracking, and directing R-73 or R-77 AAMs at persuing enemy aircraft.
General Characteristics, Su-35 Flanker
Designer:
Sukhoi Design Bureau
Power Plant:
Two Lyulka AL-31FM afterburning turbofans
Thrust:
30,855 pounds each
Length:
22.18 meters (72.76 feet)
Height:
6.84 meters (22.44 feet)
Wingspan:
15.16 meters (49.73 feet)
Speed:
2,500 kmh (1,553 mph) at 30,000 feet
Ceiling:
18,000 meters (59,055 feet)
Weight:
23,249 kilograms (51,257 pounds) empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
44,359 kilograms (97,796 pounds)
Range:
4,200 kilometers (2,610 miles)
Crew:
One
Armament:
One GSh-30-1 30mm internally mounted cannon with 150 rounds of ammunition
8,000 kilograms (17,635 pounds) of external ordinance including missiles, rockets, gravity bombs, and guided munitions carried on 11 hardpoints
Date Deployed:
1996
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
Rating: 8
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Il-76 Candid
Function: Medium range, medium lift cargo aircraft.
History: The Ilyushin Il-76 (NATO designation Candid) was fielded by the Soviet Air Force in 1974 as a medium range, medium payload, rough surface capable cargo aircraft. Produced by the Ilyushin Aviation Complex Joint Stock Company in Moscow and the Tashkent Aircraft Production Corporation in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the Il-76 was purpose built as a combat support aircraft who's primary mission was to deliver infantry and light armored vehicles. The Il-76 is also paratrooper capable, and can air deliver palletized cargo and specially prepared military vehicles.
To facilitate rough field operations, the Il-76 is equipped with a low ground pressure landing gear system and extendable trailing flaps and leading edge slats on the wings to generate additional lift at low airspeeds. To support airborne cargo delivery missions, the Candid is equipped with a telpher; an over-head electrically operated track from which cargo can be suspended and deployed, as well as a deck mounted roller conveyer system. The Il-76 can also be converted to a litter capable airborne ambulance.
Since its introduction, the Il-76 has undergone a number of modifications. The Il-76M is virtually identical to the base line Il-76 in terms of physical appearance, and flight characteristics, but with almost twice the payload capacity (47 tons for the M model, up considerably from the 28 tons of the basic model.) The Il-76MD is essentially an Il-76M with structural modifications to increase fuel load and range. The additional fuel carried increased the MD's maximum take off weight by 20 tons, and increased the range of the aircraft by 40%. The Il-76MF variant incorporates a 6.6-meter insertion into the fuselage to increase cargo hold dimensions, as well as improved engines, replacing the four D-30KP turbofan engines with four more powerful PS-90A-76 turbofans. These new engines improve range by 20% over the MD model. The MF's maximum take off weight has been increased to 210 tons, and the maximum payload has been increased to 52 tons.
In addition to serving as a cargo aircraft, the basic Il-76 design has been modified to fill a number of additional aircraft requirements. The A-50 Mainstay Airborne Early Warning radar aircraft is derived from the Il-76 design, and the Il-78 Midas aerial tanker is derived from a modified MD airframe.
Description: As with most cargo aircraft, the Il-76 body was designed to maximize available space. The fuselage is long and more rounded in cross-section than the more contemporary An-124 Condor, with a tapered aft section and rounded nose. The tail has a pair of clamshell doors and integral loading ramp for cargo. The nose, un-like the C-5 Galaxy or the An-124 Condor, is fixed, and the lower section is glassed in for observation. Directly behind the glass nose section is an oval radome, which extends laterally beyond the sides of the frame.
The wings are mounted high on the fuselage at a slight negative dihedral, and are tapered and swept. The four turbofans are mounted on pylons underneath, and forward of the wings. The horizontal stabilizers are also swept back and tapered, and are mounted high on the vertical stabilizer.
Designed as a combat aircraft, the Il-76 is capable of mounting an electronic warfare ECM package, to include radar warning receiver, and chaff and flare dispensers, to defend the aircraft from radar guided and heat seeking missile threats, and is capable of mounting air dropped ordnance on external, wing mounted ejector racks. In addition, the tail section incorporates a manned weapons station, mounting two 23mm cannons and a fire direction radar. This tail gun station is retained on many Russian owned, civilian operated Il-76s, as they were expected to serve with the Air Force during a time of war.
General Characteristics, Il-76 Candid
Power Plant:
Four D-30KP turbofans
Thrust:
12,000 kef
Length:
46.6 meters (152.9 feet)
Height:
14.42 meters (47.31 feet)
Wingspan:
50.5 meters (165.7 feet)
Cargo Hold Dimensions:
Length (less ramp): 20 meters
Width: 3.45 meters
Height 3.4 meters
Speed:
Cruise speed at an altitude of
9 to 12 kilometers: 760 to 780 kmh
Ceiling:
20,695 meters (67,900 feet)
Load-Carrying Capacity:
47 tons
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
170 tons
Range:
With 20-ton payload: 6,100 kilometers (3,660 miles)
With 47-ton payload: 3,000 kilometers (1,800 miles)
Crew:
Six or seven
Runway:
Takeoff run on concrete runway: 1,600 meters
Landing roll on concrete runway: 780 to 1,000 meters
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
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MiG-25 Foxbat
Function: High speed, high altitude strategic bomber interceptor.
History: Designed in 1962 as a purpose built interceptor to combat the American XB-70 Valkyrie supersonic strategic bomber as well as other high altitude, high speed threats, the MiG-25, was and offically still is, the fastest production fighter aircraft ever built. Possessing a rudimentary yet powerful long range missile guidance radar and completely lacking in air combat maneuverability, the Foxbat relies on ground control radars for guidance and its incredable speed to rapidly close in on and engage threat aircraft.
Although the XB-70 was eventually dropped by the U.S. Air Force, production of the MiG-25 continued, with a reconnosance variant, the MiG-25R, entering service in 1968 and a bomber variant, the MiG-25RB, and a fighter variant, the MiG-25P, being introduced in 1970. The latest version of the Foxbat, the MiG-25PD, incorperates improved engines and fire control radar, and is still in service with the Russian Airforce and being produced for export.
General Characteristics, MiG-25 Foxbat
Designer:
Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau
Power Plant:
Two Soyuz/Tumansky R-15BD-300 afterburning turbojets
Thrust:
24,700 pounds each
Length:
23.82 meters (78.17 feet)
Height:
6.1 meters (20 feet)
Wingspan:
14.02 meters (46 feet)
Speed:
1,200 kmh (745 mph) at sea level
3,000 kmh (1,865 mph) at 30,000 feet)
Ceiling:
20,695 meters (67,900 feet)
Weight:
19,999.8 kilograms (44,092 pounds) empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
36,199.8 kilograms (79,807 pounds)
Range:
1,730 kilometers (1,075 miles)
Crew:
One
Armament:
Two R-23 and two R-40 Air to Air Missiles (AAM), or four R-60 AAMs, or four R-73A AAMs
Date Deployed:
1968
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
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MiG-31 Foxhound
Function: High speed, high altitude, long range interceptor.
Description: Developed as an improved MiG-25 (the original prototype was based on a converted MiG-25MP), the Foxhound was designed to improve the range, low altitude speed, and electronic performance and capabilities of the earlier interceptor. As such, the MiG-31 utilizes larger engines and air intakes, extended exhaust nozzles, a strengthened airframe (to improve low altitude supersonic performance) and a phased array radar capable of tracking ten separate targets out to 75 miles (120 km) and engaging up to four simultaniously. Additionally, the MiG-31 incorperates an additional crewmember who serves as the weapon systems operator.
General Characteristics, MiG-31 Foxhound
Designer:
Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau
Power Plant:
Two Aviadvigatel D-30F6 afterburning turbofans
Thrust:
34,170 pounds each
Length:
22.69 meters (74.44 feet)
Height:
6.1 meters (20 feet)
Wingspan:
13.46 meters (44.16 feet)
Speed:
1,500 kmh (932 mph) at sea level
3,000 kmh (1,865 mph) at 30,000 feet
Ceiling:
20,604 meters (67,600 feet)
Weight:
21,824 kilograms (48,115 pounds) empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
46,198 kilograms (101,850 pounds)
Range:
3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles)
Crew:
One
Armament:
One GSh-6-23 23mm internally mounted cannon with 260 rounds of ammunition
Four R-33 and two R-40T Air to Air Missiles (AAM), or four R-60 AAMs
Date Deployed:
1983
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