MIG - 3

MiG-3: History and Description
The MiG-3 was a Soviet fighter aircraft developed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich design bureau in the early years of World War II. It was one of the last major fighters developed by the Soviet Union before the German invasion in 1941.
 
Key Specifications and Features
Engine: Originally equipped with a Mikulin AM-35A V-12 liquid-cooled engine.
Power: Approximately 1,350 horsepower.
Top Speed: About 640 km/h at altitude.
Armament: Typically armed with one 12.7 mm BS machine gun and two 7.62 mm ShKAS machine guns, with provisions for bombs and rockets under the wings.
Wingspan: 10.2 meters.
Length: 8.25 meters.
Height: 2.27 meters.
 
Historical Significance
The MiG-3 was designed as a high-altitude interceptor, excelling in combat above 4,000 meters. It was fast and had a good climb rate, making it a formidable adversary against early-war German aircraft at higher altitudes. However, its performance at lower altitudes was less competitive.
During the war, the MiG-3 was mostly used in the air defense role, protecting cities and important installations in the Soviet Union. Its role diminished as newer fighter designs became available, but it played a crucial part in the early stages of the aerial conflict on the Eastern Front.
 
End of Production and Legacy
Production of the MiG-3 was halted in late 1941, with over 3,000 units produced. While it was eventually overshadowed by more advanced Soviet fighters, the MiG-3 remains an important part of World War II aviation history and a testament to the rapid development of military aircraft technology during the period.