An export-model MiG-23 in service with the Libyan Air Force

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23 - РоссияRussia - 1967

The MiG-23S (Flogger-B) interceptor has now been in service with the V-VS for five years and normally carries a mix of AA-7 Apex and AA-8 Aphid AAMs plus a twin-barrel GSh-23 cannon. With a 90-cm AI radar, the MiG-23S reportedly has a combat thrust/weight ratio of the order of 0.8:1.0 and is rapidly replacing the late-model MiG-21s deployed by the FA in Eastern Europe.
Two SovAF MiG-23S fighters. The fighter has a shorter nozzle than the prototype, radar, a laser installation and four missile pylons. The inner pair sometimes carry small electronic countermeasures pods instead of weapons. The MiG-23S is in service with the SovAF Air Defence Forces, replacing earlier MiG-21 interceptors. Note the ventral 23mm cannon, with prominent ejector chutes.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23 - РоссияRussia - 1967

First MiG-23 prototype

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23 - РоссияRussia - 1967

The MiG-23 makes its debut over Domodedovo, in July 1967. The wings sweep through their full travel in 11 seconds.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23 - РоссияRussia - 1967

MiG-23 export model of the Libyan Air Force. The nose radar is smaller than that of the MiG-23S. Note aerials recessed into glove leading edges and "claws.” Dark panels under the nose are radio altimeter aerials.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23 - РоссияRussia - 1967

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23 - РоссияRussia - 1967МиГ МиГ-23Б / МиГ-23БН - РоссияRussia - 1971МиГ МиГ-23УБ - РоссияRussia - 1969

MiG-23S Flogger B

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23 - РоссияRussia - 1967

MiG-23B with its 23mm ventral cannon and weapon pylons under gloves and intake ducts. The sharply pointed ECM head above starboard outer pylon is prominent.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23Б / МиГ-23БН - РоссияRussia - 1971

MiG-23B carrying four 250kg bombs. Note terrain-avoidance radar under nose, just behind window for laser ranger.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23Б / МиГ-23БН - РоссияRussia - 1971

The MiG-23B is fitted with Doppler ahead of the nose wheel bay. Note optical (port) and electronic (starboard) sensors above glove pylons, probably with missile-guidance role.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23Б / МиГ-23БН - РоссияRussia - 1971

A two-seater MiG-23U in service with the Libyan Air Force

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23УБ - РоссияRussia - 1969

The MiG-23U Flogger C has a limited combat role, although it has been reported in use for electronic countermeasures duties. It also serves in the training role.
The two-seat MiG-23U (Flogger-C) is included in the inventory of all V-VS MiG-23 squadrons, operating in the combat proficiency training and, allegedly, ECM roles.
The tandem two-seat MiG-23U (Flogger-C) features a retractable periscope for the rear seat occupant who is incorporated at some expense to internal fuel capacity.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23УБ - РоссияRussia - 1969

The tandem two-seat MiG-23U (on photo) combines the strike fighter role with that of transitioning pilots. Possessing the same combat capability as the single-seat MiG-32B (Flogger-B), the MiG-23U apparently has the same overall dimensions, provision of a second seat resulting in some rearrangement of the internal fuel tankage. Noteworthy features of the MiG-23U include the raised decking aft of the tandem cockpits and the very substantial dorsal fin.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: МиГ МиГ-23УБ - РоссияRussia - 1969