Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG (RAC MiG) leaves open the possibility of developing a light fifth-generation fighter. MiG-35 fighter may be chosen as a platform for development of the next-generation jet, ARMS-TASS reports with reference to Flight.

According to CEO of RAC MiG, Sergey Korotkov, the corporation’s specialists are already developing a concept of the new fighter. "I know that this is one of the design bureau’s areas of activities, - he said. – I hope that we will take a closer look at this project soon".

Korotkov did not unveil any details related to the results of the corporation’s research, but he believes that the development of the new jet is “quite possible”. "The most important thing is to have a contract for development", - he added.

Korotkov dismissed the idea that development of the light fifth-generation fighter will cause a conflict between RAC MiG and Sukhoi Holding Company, which is developing its own version of fifth-generation fighter – PAK FA.

"These are two completely different aircraft having different missions", - he stated. The maximum takeoff weight of MiG-35 is 5 tons lower as compared to PAK FA and Korotkov believes that it will be more efficient.

"We think that MiG-35 may serve as a platform for development of the fifth-generation fighter", - he said.

At present RAC MiG expects to sign the contract with Russian Ministry of Defense for delivery of MiG-35 jets. According to Korotkov, all the required documents related to unknown quantity of jets have been submitted for consideration by the Ministry of Defense. The CEO hopes that the contract will be signed “this year”.

Export orders for the jet are also possible. In particular, the mass media suggested that Egypt may purchase 24 aircraft of the type powered by RD-33MK engines developed by Klimov Company. However, Korotkov declined to comment on the matter.

In April RAC MiG signed a contract with the Ministry of Defense for delivery of 16 MiG-29SMT fighters to Russian air forces.