Written by Kyle Jaracz This ultramicro MiG is on target! As seen in the Summer 2019 issue of Park Pilot
The “optional” cannons give this aircraft a commanding presence.
SPECIFICATIONS: TYPE: BNF (Bind-N-Fly) EDF jet SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate WINGSPAN: 16.2 inches LENGTH: 15.9 inches WEIGHT: 3.13 to 3.28 ounces NEEDED TO COMPLETE: Four-plus channel Spektrum radio; LiPo battery charger; 280 mAh 2S 30C LiPo battery with JST-PH connector Material: EPO foam Motor: BL 180m ducted-fan motor, 13,500 Kv EDF system: Delta-V 180m 28 mm EDF PRICE: $129.99 INFO: horizonhobby.com Features: >> Brushless 2S powerplant provides respectable power >> Completely assembled >> Easy to maintain your orientation >> SAFE Select helps new fliers >> AS3X adds stability and enables flight in less-than-ideal conditions
Low passes are easily achievable and loads of fun!
When I picked up this model for review, my first reaction was to assume that this would end up as a nice static display model. I assumed that there was no way that such an aircraft could successfully keep my attention at the flying field and perform well. I’m happy to share with you that I was completely incorrect. This newly rereleased E-flite MiG-15 EDF (electric ducted-fan) jet from Horizon Hobby is a real winner! It looks great, and it flies just as well.
When I opened the box, I was impressed by the detail on this model. The decals were well attached and eye-catching. The molding of the aircraft panels is nicely done. My first impression about it being useful as a desktop model is justified.
The landing gear with steerable nose wheel is easily removable for more scalelike flights. If you have a smooth surface that you’d like to take off from, leave them on! They work well and it’s always nice to complete some touch-and-gos!
Setting up your transmitter is easy. Depending on what transmitter you use, you can set up multiple rates, as well as the ability to turn the SAFE on and off via a switch. Instructions for setting up the model are well stated.
I would have to disagree with the headline detailing the installation of the cannons for the model. They state that they are “optional.” I would humbly contend that if cannons are offered, there isn’t really an option. One simply says, “thank you” and smiles broadly.
The decals are well attached, and the body panel details are a nice scale touch.
The first flight was conducted in mild wind. I hand-launched in SAFE mode to see how the aircraft would react. The jet was downright docile and smoothly climbed into the air. A few ticks of left aileron trim, and my aircraft was tracking perfectly. I tested the SAFE limits and they functioned as one would expect.
After a few circuits of the flying field, I turned SAFE off and began to test the capabilities of this miniscule model. The aircraft is easy to orient despite its size because the bright red tail and swept wing really aid in orientation.
The UMX MiG-15 had enough power to do basic maneuvers well. Aileron rolls were a snap, four-point rolls were downright easy, and barrel rolls were just as smooth. Loops had to be moderated in terms of their overall size, but the aircraft certainly exceeded my expectations.
Inverted flight is achieved with a gentle push on the elevator
Going vertical is short-lived, but the small 28 mm EDF really performed well. I was also impressed by the split rudder on this model. Although I wouldn’t call it authoritative, it works and is a great touch. Inverted flights only required a slight push on the elevator.
One item of note is that the aircraft seemed to emit an odd sound at a certain step of the throttle, but with as much fun as the flight was, that’s a minor point of contention. Besides, I was having a great time at full throttle, so I didn’t have too many chances to notice the sound!
My second flight was a test of the AS3X stabilization. I took the model out on a day on which I had no business flying. There was a steady 17 mph wind, with considerably higher gusts. I launched the aircraft into the wind and had a great time. As you’d expect, the MiG-15 struggled to penetrate the headwind, but the downwind leg of each flight was a lot of fun!
The AS3X does a great job at mitigating the wind. Flying wasn’t exactly easy, but it was not difficult by any stretch. There were a few areas at the field that were causing turbulence. When the aircraft would enter those areas, it was noticeably tossed about. However, the AS3X was able to maintain overall orientation and direction without any issues.
If I had not been flying with that stabilization, the results might have been less than ideal. That test certainly proved the value of such technology to me. The chance to get an aircraft into the air and have a good time is where this technology really shines.
If you’re looking to get into a simple EDF jet and want something with some presence, this little UMX would be a great purchase. Despite its diminutive size, this model flies well and will offer you many hours of entertainment!
With some experience, even someone relatively new to flying could get into the air and have a good time while using the SAFE technology. More experienced pilots will certainly have a good time with this aircraft!
