In addition to writing for Aviation Week Network, Maxim holds a key position at Russia's Air Transport Observer magazine (www.ato.ru). In the past he was in charge of several ATO sister aerospace publications and earlier worked for the Moscow-based CAST defense think-tank.
Maxim has a degree on international relations from MGIMO University, Moscow, Russia, and for several years worked at the Russian Foreign Ministry.
A MiG-35 prototype fitted with an active, electronically scanned array (AESA) radar has carried out a radar-guided missile engagement using the RVV-AE (R-77/AA-12 Adder). Completing the test is a key element in bidding the aircraft for India’s fighter requirement and was part of the final flight trials of the latest modification of the MiG-29. Two MiG-35 prototypes—the single-seat Bort (side number) 961 and the two-seat Bort 967—were evaluated in April. The Russian air force center at Ahktubinsk managed the weapon tests.
The Russian air force took delivery of the first Pantsyr-S short-range air-defense systems in March. The Pantsyrs will gradually replace the old Tunguska antiaircraft weapons. The first 10 systems were released from KBP Instrument Design Bureau’s assembly site in Tula and transported to Alabino, near Moscow, and will be part of the Victory Day parade in Red Square on May 9.
Russia’s two engine manufacturers are to collaborate on the next stage of engine development for the Sukhoi T-50 fifth-generation fighter after years of going head-to-head as rivals.
