Vetrov-Kazakov VeK-24

The Vetrov and Kazakov VeK-24 (Stasnovan: Ветров-Казаков ВеК-24) is a Stasnovan single engine, variable geometry fighter-interceptor designed by the Vetrov-Kazakov design bureau and was the result of the failed TBD fighter program with Siviras. It is among the world's most produced variable geometry aircraft, and formed the backbone of the Stasnovan Revolutionary Air Force until the introduction of the VeK-29 and the Lu-27. It was the fist Stasnovan aircraft with look-down/shoot-down radar and one of the first to be armed with beyond visual range missiles. The VeK-24 spawned several variants, including the ground attack VeK-26.

Variants

 * VeK-24: The pre-production variant. It only featured two hardpoints.
 * VeK-24A: Initial production variant, with 4 missile hardpoints and another for external fuel tanks.
 * VeK-24M: Upgraded variant that entered service in 1973, featuring the more advanced Sapfir-23D radar.
 * VeK-24SE: Export version of the VeK-24S, with small changes to the IFF system. The VeK-24SK, which was sold to non-Vastava Pact states was a further downgraded variant of the SE, entirely lacking the IFF datalink and the ECCM system.
 * VeK-24U: Two-seat conversion trainer.
 * VeK-24P: Dedicated interceptor for the Air Defence Command (PVO) of the SRAF, featuring the advanced Sapfir-23P radar. The VeK-24P also lacked hte IRST system. The VeK-24PM subvariant restored the IRST and the cumbersome radar scope was eliminated because all of the information it provided could be displayed on the new head-up display (HUD).
 * VeK-24B: Strike variant with redesigned nose that improved pilot visibility, while the radar was also replaced by a laser rangefinder and marked-target seeker. Other additions included improved cockpit armour and a bran new nav/attack system. Entered service in 1976. VP-only export subvariant was the VeK-24BE, while the downgrade VeK-24BK was offered to non-VP countries.
 * VeK-24S: Upgraded variant with two additional hardpoints, a heavily avionics suite featuring the new Sapfir-23ML radar as well as new datalink and radar systems. Late production models featured the new ASP-17ML HUD/gunsight, and the capability to fire improved Vympel R-24R/T missiles.Entered service in 1976.
 * VeK-24UB: Improved two-two seater variant based on the VeK-24S.
 * VeK-24BM: Upgraded strike variant with improved ground attack equipment, strengthened undercarriage and provisions to use precision guided munitions. Introduced in 1980.
 * VeK-24SM: The definitive VeK-24 variant, it possessed improved agility, especially during high angles of attack (AoA). The VeK-24SM upgrade also included the new Sapfir-23MLA-II radar, while SPO-15L radar warning receiver was also installed along chaff/flare dispensers. The SM also possessed the capability to use the new R-73 short-range air-to-air missile. Entered service in 1984.
 * VeK-24SME: Export subvariants of the SM for VP states. The VeK-24SMK was offered to non-VP states, and featured a downgraded radar and avionics.
 * VeK-24D: Last major upgrade program of the VeK-24 in Stasnovan service, entering service in 1986. These were solely upgraded aircraft, no new fighters were produced. It featured a modified variant of the radar on the VeK-29 with the capability to fire R-27 BVR missiles, a helmet-mounted sight and new avionics and self-defence measures.
 * VeK-24BM2: Heavy modernization program for the strike variants that entered service in 1989. The upgrade included multi-function displays, combined GPS/GLONASS navigation, improved avionics and targeting systems. This upgrade was not offered for export.
 * VeK-24K: Limited production carrier-borne variant based on the VeK-24D. Additional features included a larger cockpit for increased visibility, a necessary feature in carrier operations, smaller ventral fin and altered vertical and horizontal stabilisers. Less than 100 were produced and served on the Admiral Kuznetskov-class carriers of the Revolutionary Navy alongside the larger Lu-33s, before being replaced by the VeK-29K. A two-seat trainer version called the VeK-24UBK was also produced in limited numbers.
 * VeK-24-94: Upgrade program offered to export clients to bring the VeK-24's capabilities to modern standards. It was in many ways similar to the domestic VeK-24D program, but with different equipment.

Operators

 * Stasnov: The VeK-24 was the main fighter of the Stasnovan Revolutionary Air Force throughout the 70s and early 80s before the more modern VeK-29 and Lu-27 entered mass production. Late VeK-24 variants served in frontline units until 2001. The SRAF still maintains hundreds of late model VeK-24s in long-term storage.