Supersonic interceptor, more built than any other jet fighter, racked up a 7 to 1 kill ratio against Americans in Vietnam around '67-'68
One twin barrel 23mm Gsh-23 cannon with 200 rounds, 4 air-to-air missiles (usually AA-2 Atoll)
Goes around Mach 2, range: 720mi, Ceiling: 57,000 ft.
One 14,500 lb. thrust Tumansky R-25 afterburning turbojet engine
One of the most popular fighter aircraft in the world is the Mig-21,
originally developed by Artem I Mikoyan and Mikhail I. Gurevich. Its
design in 1955, followed by its exhibition to an impressed public at
an air show the following year, was a forerunner to the hundreds
of changes that were able to take place within the craft's following 20
years of existence.
Several variations of the Mig have been produced over the years and for
many nations, yet the version that is the most prolific is the model
MiG-21F, or "Fishbed-C", now produced in China.
This model of the MiG-21 was strictly a short-range, non-inclement weather-
type fighter jet with an arsenal limted to a single 30-millimeter gun.
This was the prototype for many planes of this configuration produced
for China, Finland, and India's air force. The latter eventually made
ample use of the MiG-21PF, and the addition of two 23-millimeter cannons
to it greatly furthered progress of Indian air conflicts with Pakistan
in 1971.
As modifications to engines and structure were taking place and differing
with every model produced, the Fishbed's role also expanded into the
realm of Reconnaisance. Radar warning receivers and electronic
countermeasures equipment were installed in the MiG-21R to enable the
craft to gather information, similar to the roles of the U.S.' U-2,
its superswift SR-71, and its EA-6 Prowler.
Other countries using the plane for scouting purposes include
Czechoslavakia, East Germany, Egypt, and its originator, the former
Soviet Union.
The MiG-21MF model of fighter craft is a prime example of a product's
maturity as a result of consistent improvements. Avionics on the plane
include a nose-type retractable conical radome, accompanied by a spear-
shaped sensor vane located directly above it. Under the craft are a
small air-temperature gauge to regulate fire control, as does its radio
altimeter located to the rear.
Weapons for the MiG are its standard 23-millimeter cannon as well as
a loaded 16-rocket, 57-millimeter launcher. Air-to-air missiles like
the K-13A Atoll, the R-60 Aphid, or the Matra Magic 550 can all be
released from the plane's underwing pylons.
One of the few common traits that the countries of Afghanistan, Algeria,
Iraq, Libya, Nigeria, and Syria share is their usage of the Fishbed in
its various forms, yet primarily as a fighter aircraft. It also holds
an invaluable position as a bomber or attack plane with dozens of other
nations or institutions.
During the war in Southeast Asia, Viet Cong air forces, backed by the
Soviet Union, fought against the United States and South Vietnam
using the MiG-21. Though its creator died before the end of that
conflict, and the Russian government's structure crumbled some twenty
years later, this craft was still being produced by "communists" in China.
Most recently, MiGs were used by Iraqis in the Persian Gulf War of
1991. They have been given the dubious distinction of being the only
aircraft eliminated by the United States Navy during Operation Desert
Storm. Shot down by two F/A-18 Hornets, they joined the ranks of 31
other disabled craft within that conflict.
Its dimensions, Length: 51ft. 8in., Height: 13ft. 5inc. Wingspan: 23ft. 5.inc.
