Comox Museum Heritage Air Park Czech Republic - Air Force Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 MF-75 Shenyang J-7
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 air arms 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 aircraft. Between April 26, 165, 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 -have flown the MiG-21. At least 15 versions of the MiG-21 have been produced, some outside the Soviet Union. Estimates place the number built at more than 8,000, a production total exceeding that of any other modern jet aircraft. The Soviets licenced the manufacture of the MiG-21F and its engine to China in 1961, and assembly of the first J-7 (Jianjiji-7 Fighter aircraft 7) using Chinese-made components began early 1964 The Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21 is truly one of the most remarkable aircraft of the Cold War and perhaps the most widely-built plane since World War II. In its career, the MiG-21 has seen service with some 47 different nations throughout Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Eastern Europe since the late 1950s. The project began in 1953 when the Soviet Air Force requested a short-range interceptor to replace the MiG-17 and MiG-19 fighters. After experimenting with various wing configurations, the Mikoyan Gurevich design bureau chose a tailed delta configuration that eventually became the MiG-21. What made the design so successful was its extremely light weight and maneuverability coupled with exceptional reliability, high sortie-rate, and low cost of operation. However, the MiG-21 long suffered from short range, small payload, and poor avionics suite. Later models were improved with more powerful and fuel efficient engines.
Size: 5563px × 3771px
Location: 19 Wing Comox Air museum Vancouver Island BC British Columbia Canada
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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