MIG-21 Fishbed

MIG-21 Fishbed. . , The MIG-21F is a short range day fighter-interceptor and the first major production version of the popular MIG-21 series. The MIG-21 is considered to be the most outstanding Soviet fighter aircraft designed since the end of world war two. 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 in June 1956., The MIG-21 is used by more than 30 countries of the world , including nations friendly to the US. An estimated 10,000 - 13,000 copies have been built in 15 different versions., This production feat is only outnumbered by some world war two aircraft and in modern days only by one , the Lockheed C-130. First introduced in service in 1959, it continued front line service for more than 30 years. A record equal, and parallel, to the F-4 Phantom ll., The MIG-21 proved itself over and over as a formidable fighter. It has seen combat in most conflicts since the Vietnam War. The MIG-21 is not known for its radar or hauling capabilities, nor for its target acquisition equipment or range. It was very much dependent on the pilot, his training and experience., This MIG-21 S/N 014 is depicted in the USSR camouflage paint scheme of its time., Specifications , Manufacturer Mikoyanl Gurevich Bureau , Thrust One Tumansky R-11F-300 Turbojet engine rated at 12,675 lbs of thrust w/afterburner , Length 51 ft 9 in , Height 15 ft 9 in , Wingspan 23 ft 6 in , Weight 11,464 lbs Empty / 18,080 lbs Max , Speed 1,300 mph Max / 550 mph Cruise , Range 800 miles w/tanks , Ceiling 50,000 ft , Armament One , NR-30 30mm cannon and Two , K-13 Atoll air-to-air missiles or FAB-500 bombs, FAB-250 bombs or UV-16-67 rocket pods, This aircraft is on loan from the National Museum of the United States Air Force