![]() In practice, the aircraft proved capable though it suffered from a limited weapons set and equally limited operational ranges. It was produced from 1957 until 1972 to which some 1,847 were ultimately manufactured with operational use spanning both Soviet allies and satellite nations within the Soviet sphere of influence. Its basic configuration involved use of a slim, tubular fuselage with swept-back wings and a single turbojet engine. In 1959, the Soviets introduced the Sukhoi Su-7 fighter and the type went on to become the primary Soviet Air Force fighter in inventory while also doubling in a limited strike role. After extensive aerodynamic testing of various design elements concerning supersonic flight, work began on a pair of aircraft that would eventually become the Sukhoi Su-7 ("Fitter") and the Sukhoi Su-9 ("Fishpot"). The Sukhoi concern, in operation since 1939, began work on a pair of missile-armed, supersonic interceptors with swept wings. While the MiG-15 proved an excellent platform in its own right during the conflict (particularly when piloted by Soviet airmen), it was only inevitable that Soviet researchers and engineers continue development of more capable types. ![]() Soviet MiG-15s regularly tangled with American F-86 Sabres in a "duel for the skies", solidifying the benefits of swept-back wings and jet propulsion. During the Korean War (1950-1953), the age of the jet-powered fighter had arrived. ![]()
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