Interceptor: Difference between revisions
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An '''interceptor''' is a fighter aircraft optimized for combat with other aircraft. The term is roughly synonymous with [[air superiority fighter]]. | An '''interceptor''' is a fighter aircraft optimized for combat with other aircraft. The term is roughly synonymous with [[air superiority fighter]]. | ||
Interceptors tend to be optimized either for short-range | Interceptors tend to be optimized either for short-range point defense (e.g., [[MiG-21 (fighter)|MiG-21]]) or for long-range intercept of bombers and other strategic aircraft (e.g., [[MiG-25 (fighter)|MiG-25]], [[F-14 Tomcat]], [[MiG-31]]). In the U.S. Navy, the latter role is called fleet defense. | ||
In general, pure interceptors have been deemphasized, in the west, by [[fighter#multirole fighter|multirole fighters]]. | In general, pure interceptors have been deemphasized, in the west, by [[fighter#multirole fighter|multirole fighters]]. Russia still seem interested in the long-range interceptor, and has been involved in joint development with India, especially for interceptors equipped with very long range missiles capable of killing [[high-value asset]]s such as [[Airborne Warning and Control System]] aircraft. | ||
Revision as of 18:23, 6 June 2009
An interceptor is a fighter aircraft optimized for combat with other aircraft. The term is roughly synonymous with air superiority fighter.
Interceptors tend to be optimized either for short-range point defense (e.g., MiG-21) or for long-range intercept of bombers and other strategic aircraft (e.g., MiG-25, F-14 Tomcat, MiG-31). In the U.S. Navy, the latter role is called fleet defense.
In general, pure interceptors have been deemphasized, in the west, by multirole fighters. Russia still seem interested in the long-range interceptor, and has been involved in joint development with India, especially for interceptors equipped with very long range missiles capable of killing high-value assets such as Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft.