ISRAEL AIRCRAFT Industries (IAI) is proposing a low-cost radar upgrade for the Mikoyan MiG-21bis Fishbed, based on modification of the aircraft's existing radar. One contract has already been signed.
The radar package is based on modifying the MiG-21's existing radar, so that its video output is displayed either on one of the advanced multi-function displays to be installed in the cockpit, or on the added head-up display.
The upgrade also includes a new mission computer, a new display generator and an improved inertial-navigation system.
IAI sources say that a prototype of a MiG-21bis, with the modified radar, and other systems, will be flown in June. This prototype is now being built by LAHAV, the military aircraft plant of IAI.
The plant specialises in MIG-21 upgrades and is now performing work on aircraft of two unnamed air forces - believed to be Romania and possibly Cambodia.
Russian radar manufacturer Phazotron is also offering its Kopyo (Spear) lightweight radar as an upgrade for the MiG-21.
Source: Flight International
