| title (item) | field_cer_web | field_cer_navbox | |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAZ-AR |
After testing and combat deployment of PDL-CT-equipped Mirage F.1EQ-5s, serving as target-markers, and Su-22M-3K/M-4s as bombers delivering Soviet-made Kh-29L laser-guided bombs to knock out several Iranian pontoon bridges in April–May 1988, the Iraqis arrived at a new idea. The result was an attempt to install Kh-29 PGMs on their Mirages. Only one aircraft – serial number 4563 – was modified this way, but the adaptation proved quite cumbersome, necessitating the development and installation of an adapter between the Frenchmade Alkan 951B inboard underwing pylon and the Soviet-made APU-58 launch rail for Kh-29Ls. This project was not applied fleet-wide, even if proudly presented in public during the May 1989 arms fair in Baghdad. Shown in the lower left corner is the French-made Baz-AR, developed to Iraqi specifications. (Artwork by Tom Cooper)