In-flight display of the first MiG-29KUB in front of a Indian Navy delegation

[BuSOF]

What are your comments on the acquisition of MiG-29s for the airgroup of the INS Vikramaditiya and the combat potential the carrier battle group will gain?

 

[vivtho]

What are your comments on the acquisition of MiG-29s for the airgroup of the INS Vikramaditiya and the combat potential the carrier battle group will gain?

The IN has been saddled with the Harrier for far too long. No doubt it is a capable aircraft, but it's effectiveness in a modern conflict is suspect. MiG-29s are the way to go for the IN to equip it's latest carrier. While the MiG-29 is capable of doing the job on paper, it's actual performance is not known. Russian aircraft manufacturers have little knowledge or experience of naval aviation and are learning as they go along. I'd have preferred to go in for an aircraft with more experience backing it like the Rafale.

On the positive side, even with it's shortcomings, the MiG-29 is a good buy.
It is a learning experience for India whose lessons can be carried out on the Naval LCA. It is much more capable than the Sea Harrier, both in air-air as well as air-ground combat.