What engine did the MiG-23 use?
All featured the Tumansky R-27-300 turbojet engine with a thrust of 77 kN (17,300 lbf). The order to start series production of the MiG-23 was given in December 1967. While its turning capability was comparable to an original F-4E Phantom, newer American fighters like the F-15 Eagle or F-4E upgraded with slats could easily out-turn the MiG-23 in a dogfight. In fact, whenever the MiG-23 approached high angle of attack it became very unstable and liable to depart controlled flight.The MiG-23 is one of the most recognisable jets on our list, thanks to its variable-sweep wing design. This also makes it very light and agile in flight, and perfect for dogfight situations. Its maximum speed of Mach 2.
How many MiG 23s were built?
Production Scale: Over its production life, from the late 1960s to the late 1980s, more than 5,000 units of the MiG-23 were produced, making it one of the most produced jet fighters in its generation. As of 2021, the MiG-23 was operated by the air forces of Angola, Cuba, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Libya, North Korea, Sudan, Syria and Zimbabwe.