In the 1960’s the Soviet military required a replacement for the MiG-21 that could compete with the USAF F-14 Tomcat. It had to be very fast, rapid acceleration, carry a larger payload, capable of a high service ceiling, long range and beyond visual range intercept capabilities. The project was given to the Mikoan- Gurevich Design Bureau that produced the Model 23-11 that first flew on June 10, 1967. Production began in 1969 and eventually completed over 5,000 swing-wing MiG-23s. A ground-attack variant was also produced, the MiG-27.

The first MiG-23 was the Soviet Union’s first “third generation” fighter aircraft and entered service in 1970. The upgrade to a Mig-23-98 was intended to extend the life of the MiG-23 until 2010. It would include new radar; new avionics, its air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities were improved by making the aircraft capable of firing R- 27 and R-77 missiles. The MiG-23-98 used systems from the MiG-29SMT aircraft. The MiG-23 was the primary multirole fighter used by the Warsaw Pact countries.

The Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.

Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:

• Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels, and surface details.
• Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
• Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
• Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.
• Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
• Accurately detailed underside with concealed screw heads.