Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 “Fishbed”

Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 “Fishbed”. USAFM 1993-204. The MiG-21F is a short-range day fighter-interceptor and the first major production version of the popular MiG-21 series. It is but one of many versions of this aircraft that have served in the arsenals of many nations around the world. The E-5 prototype of the MiG-21 was first flown in 1955 and made its first public appearance during the Soviet Aviation Day display at Moscow's Tushino Airport in June 1956. During the Vietnam War, MiG-21s were often used against U.S. aircraft. Between April 26, 1965 and January 8, 1973, USAF F-4s and B-52s downed 68 MiG-21s. More than 30 countries of the world, including nations friendly to the U.S., have flown the MiG-21. At least 15 versions of the MiG-21 have been built, totaling more than 8,000 produced, a production total exceeding that of any other modern jet aircraft., The MiG-21F on display has an unknown history. What little is known is that it was built as one of thousands for foreign export. It is painted and marked as a MiG-21F of the North Vietnamese Air Force as flown during the Vietnam War. Two 8th Air Force B-52D tail gunners are credited with the downing of two MiG-21Fs (one each). The MiG-21F on display was acquired by the USAF Museum for display at the 8th Air Force Museum, Barksdale AFB, Louisiana., Specifications , Span: 23' 6" . Length: 51' 9" . Height: 15' 9" . Weight: 18,080 lbs max . Crew: One (1) . Armament: NR-30 30mm cannon, two K-13A air-to-air missiles . Cost: Unknown, Performance , Max speed: 1,300 mph . Cruising: 550 mph . Range: 400 miles . Service ceiling: 50,000 ft . Engine: Tumansky R-11F-300