VeK-29Z7

The VeK-29Z7 "Mstka" is a 4++ generation multi-role fighter based off the Stasnovan-built VeK-29S. After relations soured with Stasnov following the overthrow of the Zolevskoyan communist regime, it was quickly realized that the RZAF would benefit from adopting weaponry of the ABC Defense Etente and Kruppstadt Pact, due to its easier access. This was achieved by modifying all Zolevskoyan VeK-29s to use missiles such as the AIM-9, AIM-120, AGM-65, etc. However, the main cannon remains the GsH-30, due to difficulties encountered during initial plans to replace it with a 20mm vulcan cannon.

Design
The VeK-29Z7 is equipped with the AESA radar. The radar offers a wide range of operating frequencies, providing better resistance to electronic countermeasures (ECMs), a 370 km detection range, and a very large array of detectable air and ground targets.

For detection of targets in the infrared spectrum, the jet is equipped with the Sud electro-optical targeting station with lookdown capability against ground, sea and air targets. Its forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor is capable to detect airborne threats up to 55 km and provides coverage in azimuth of ±10 degrees / ± 30 degrees / ± 60 degrees. The Sud also consists of an infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, TV camera with infrared search and track capability, and a multimode laser rangefinder with detection range up to 30 km. There is also the Ursula podded electro-optical targeting system mounted under the right engine nacelle. It is designed to search, detect and track ground and sea targets. The system consists of infrared sensor and TV camera and is capable to detect ground targets up to 30 km and sea targets up to 50 km. New mission planning computers and a new data bus were also introduced, which can be connected to additional devices. The mechanical gyro system was also replaced with a laser system.

Another upgrade in the VeK-29Z7 program included a structural life-extension program, as well as the installation of an in-flight refuelling probe. The engines were also upgraded by Korveke, and were introduced as the TINSP-RK. Compared to the original Klimov RD-33 engines, the two TINSP-RKs provide an additional 1,650 lbf of thrust total to the plane (with afterburners on).

To protect the aircraft against current and future surface-to-air missiles, the Lelia compact active jammer pod can be mounted on any of the aircraft nine hardpoints.

Variants

 * VeK-29Z7G: Single-seat variant
 * VeK-29Z7J: Two-seat variant
 * VeK-29Z7E: Electronic warfare variant

Operators

 * Zolevskoy: Primary multi-role fighter of the Republic of Zolevskoy Air Force.