Designed to replace the MiG-21, the MiG-23 was first flown on April 10th, 1967. To improve performance, this balanced strike/fighter-bomber was built with variable-sweep wings that could be set at 16, 45, or 72 degrees of sweep. The design included box-like air intakes forward of the wing roots and a single exhaust. The Flogger had powerful radar, an infrared tracking system, infrared guided weapons and could achieve speeds of Mach 2 plus. The MiG-23 was a reliable and robust performer, and was one of the most-produced and most successful aircraft of the Cold War.
Red Falcon’s MiG 23 is a beautiful reproduction of one of the Soviet Union’s top tactical fighters of the 1970s and 80s. This model’s most remarkable feature is swing wings that sweep in unison and can be configured in a variety of positions. For ground display, the metal landing gear installs securely and the lower ventral fin can be placed in the up position. Fine details include a sturdy metal antenna mounted behind an opening canopy, a machined metal pitot tube and several air data sensors. A variety of removable weapon ordnance is included, and the model itself locks securely into a rotating, pad-printed metal display stand.
Red Falcon is the newest manufacturer to join the diverse diecast model industry. This MiG 23 is the first release from Red Falcon, the first manufacturer to focus primarily on Cold War era Soviet aircraft. During the cold war, The Soviet Union possessed aircraft technologies that rivaled the West, and this much-neglected segment of history is finally available to diecast collectors. As with most first releases, these models will sell out fast so don’t miss out.
