A photo appeared on the Internet that finally confirms the integration of ADM-160 MALD decoy missiles on the Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter. Although some evidence of MALD use has appeared before, it has not been seen on a Ukrainian Air Force aircraft until now.
The photo in question shows a single-seat MiG-29 from below. One MALD is installed on each of the two inner pylons under the wing. They are within the payload, and there is no other weaponry on the fighter. It is interesting that the transfer of these missiles to Ukraine was not announced.
The photo appeared on Twitter, and bloggers drew attention to the presence of ADM-160 MALD decoy missiles. This small cruise missile is not designed to attack, but to suppress enemy air defenses. The American-made decoy is equipped with an ERB system, a signal amplification subsystem and has folded wings. At launch, the wings deploy and the turbojet propels the rocket along a predetermined course consisting of 100 different waypoints. Such decoys can distract and confuse Russian air defenses, giving Ukrainian missiles a better chance of reaching their targets.
Passage of MiG-29 (9-13) from the 114th Tactical Aviation Brigade
The fighter is armed with