The MiG-29K platform was notably meant to replace the Russian Navy’s fleet of Su-33 Flanker-D airframes, despite the fact the latter featured a much higher operating range and maneuverability
Also the Yak 141 were never a competitor for the MiG 29K in the same way it were not a competitor for the Su 27K (Su 33) in the age of the Soviet Union. Originally aboard of the Kuznetsov class had been planned three fixed-wing aircraft's: the Su 27K ( Su 33), the MiG 29K and the AWACS Yak 44, while the YAK 141 would be an option according withFighters that have yet to see combat: F-22 Raptor, Saab Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, Ching-Kuo, J-10, Saeqeh, Azarakhsh, MiG-31, Su-30, Su-33, Su-35. Observations: 1) US multi-role fighters seem to be primarily used in the strike role. They barely break even between kills and losses on the air-combat scorecard. ZqeU.