MiG-35 fighter, which should be purchased by Russian Ministry of Defense in future, will also find its customers in foreign countries thanks to its great aircraft performance, RIA Novosti reports with reference to Commander-in-Chief of Aerospace Defense Forces, Colonel General Viktor Bondarev.

Russia is going to sign a contract for delivery of MiG-35S fighters in 2018 or later. “It is fitted with a great targeting system, the acquisition range has been significantly increased. In addition, it is a super-maneuverable fighter … We must be proud of such aircraft. I think that not only Russian Ministry of Defense will purchase the jets, but also foreign countries,” Bondarev told at Rossiya-24 TV channel.

He noted that MiG-35 will be “much more” maneuverable than MiG-29. Moreover, the fighter will be cheaper than Su fighters and it will be easier to operate.

Earlier Bondarev said that MiG-35S is being developed in the network of research and development work ordered by Russian Ministry of Defense; the work should be completed in 2017. Upon completion of its state testing, the aircraft will be put into service; the ministry will purchase over 30 aircraft. The contract for delivery of MiG-35S fighters should be signed in 2018”.

Single-seat MiG-35 and two-seat MiG-35D are “4++”-generation multi-role fighters derived from MiG-29K/KUB and MiG-29M/M2 aircraft; these vehicles offer higher combat effectiveness and flexibility as well as better operating performance.

In February 2015 Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG (RAC MiG) CEO, Sergey Korotkov, said that MiG-35 jet will be fitted with fifth-generation electronic systems. He added that the key area of activity of RAC MiG is upgrading MiG-35.