RAC MiG contemplating a fifth-generation fighter based on MiG-35

RAC MiG is contemplating building a fifth-generation fighter which would use its current MiG-35 platform as a "foundation" for the introduction of new technologies.
RAC MiG President didn't detailed how advanced studies are, but believes it is very likely that the new combat type will be developed, and to be ordered.
The development wouldn't bring MiG into conflict with its sister airframer Sukhoi, which is developing its own stealthy type, the T-50/PAK-FA.
The two aircraft are quite different projects and each would be targeted to resolve different missions.
The maximum take-off weight of the current MiG-35 is around 5t lighter than that of the larger T-50, providing greater efficiency for the majority of projected missions.
However, in the meantime RAC MiG is still waiting for confirmation of a long-awaited order from Russia's defence ministry for the present MiG-35.
All the relevant documentation covering the deal for an undisclosed number of aircraft is with the Russian ministry of Defence.
Export orders are also being pursued, with Egypt recently linked to a commitment for 24 examples of the Klimov RD-33MK-powered type.
Additionally, in April RAC MiG received an order for 16 additional MiG-29SMTs for the Russian air force, which will keep the production line active until work can start on the newer model.
flightglobal

Russian Air Force to receive 16 MiG-29SMT in 2015-2016

Sixteen MiG-29SMT will join the Russian Air Force in 2015-2016. Eight planes will be shipped next year and another eight in 2016.
The contract is aimed at maintaining combat readiness of the Russian fleet of light fighters. The Russian Air Force had received 18 MiG-29SMT fighters in 2009-2010.
The MiG-29SMT is a qualitatively new version of the MiG-29 light frontline fighter. The plane may be equipped with a broad variety of air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons and can efficiently destroy aerial, ground, and seaborne targets.
It was reported that the MiG-29SMT's combat efficiency had tripled compared to the basic MiG-29 version, and its operation costs had been reduced by some 40 percent.
voiceofrussia

Egypt in $3Bn Arms Deal with Russia

Egypt and Russia are said to have agreed on a $3b arms deal, in a direct snub to the US, even as President Vladimir Putin endorsed Egyptian army chief Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's presidential bid during the latter's visit to Moscow.
The move is bound to irk Washington which is the primary arms supplier of the Egyptian military as the likely new regime in Egypt leans towards Moscow.
According to the deal either initiated or signed by Egypt and Russia, contracts for the delivery of MiG-29 M/M2, Fulcrum fighter aircraft, Mi-35 helicopters, air defence complexes and light weapons have been sealed.
If confirmed, this will be the biggest military purchase by Egypt from Russia since the Soviet era.
There has, however, been no official announcement on the deal.
Earlier, there was speculation that Egypt was keen on an arms deal worth billions of dollars with Russia originally initiated by Russian Foreign Minister and Defence Minister.
Local reports suggest the latest deal between the two countries is being backed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
ibtimes

Russian Air Force MiG-35 Deal ‘On Track’

Russia is not abandoning the purchase of MiG-35 fighter jets and could sign a deal next week at Moscow’s MAKS International Aviation and Space show, which will run from August 27 through September 1, while first deliveries could start in 2015-2016, he said.
Russian Air Force had postponed the purchase of 37 MiG-35’s until 2016 because the defense industry cannot fulfill the contract, and would buy 16 MiG-29SMT fighter jets instead.
The Mikoyan MiG-35 (Fulcrum-F) is a 4++ generation fighter jet and a modification of the MiG-29M. It is equipped with air-to-air and air-to-surface guided missiles, as well as the Zhuk-A radar system.
ria-military-news/

Russian Military to Buy 16 MiG-29SMT

The Russian Defense Ministry and the MiG aircraft corporation have agreed the purchase of 16 MiG-29SMT fighter jets until 2016. The agreement is part of the government’s effort to keep the struggling combat aircraft maker afloat following the announced delay of the contract on the purchase of 37 MiG-35 fighters until after 2016. The MiG corporation will have three years to perfect the design of its MiG-35 aircraft and prepare its smooth transition to mass production.
rian