MiG-21 is a famous fighter aircraft. It was built in the Soviet Union in the 1950s. The first flight took place in 1955. It was the world’s first supersonic jet fighter, which could fly faster at the speed of sound. The specialty of MiG-21 was its high speed-it used to reach the speed of Mac 2.
It could climb the height in the air quickly and catch enemy aircraft easily. But the story of MiG-21 is not just about accidents. It is a long story of valor and victory. In many wars, it has dusted enemies. Come, let’s know its heroic saga.
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MiG-21 bravery worldwide
MiG-21 served in air forces of many countries. It fought in Vietnam War, Middle East quarrels and India-Pakistan wars.
Amazing in Vietnam War
In the Vietnam War (1966–1972), the air Army of North Vietnam blew MiG-21. It proved to be very effective against American aircraft. Vietnamese pilots dropped 165 enemy aircraft from MiG-21, including 103 F-4 Phantoms. But lost 65 MiG-21 himself.
In December 1966, MiG-21 dropped 14 US F-105 Thunderfs without loss. In 1972, during the Operation Linebacker II, a MiG-21 dropped the B-52 bomber-this was the first time B-52 was killed in the air. Naguyen Van Coke won the highest 9 wins. MiG-21 became a headache for American pilots.
Six-day war and Yom Kippur War
Egypt and Syria blew MiG-21 in the six-day war of 1967. Egypt’s MiG-21 dropped 5 Israeli aircraft in the first attack. However, most of the damage occurred on the ground, but the air also showed bravery. MiG-21 performed even more brilliantly in the 1973 Yom Kipping War.
Egypt dropped 27 pucca and 8 Israeli aircraft. MiG-21 of Syria cleaned 30 enemy aircraft. On 6 and 7 October, Syrian MiG-21 dropped several Mirage, A-4 and F-4. MiG-21 showed that the small aircraft could also make a big bang.
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MiG-21 in India’s Air Force
India bought the first MiG-21 in 1963. This was necessary to strengthen the air army after the 1962 China War. From 1966 to 1980, India took 872 MiG-21. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited started making them in Nashik. It was India’s first supersonic fighter. Initially it was used to stop the enemy at height, later in close fighting and land attacks.
India-Pakistan War of 1965
The number of MiG-21 in the 1965 war was less and the training of pilots incomplete. But still, it gave experience in defensive flights. MiG-21 showed its superiority after Gnaut aircraft. This war was a chance to learn for MiG-21.
India-Pakistan War of 1971-high flight of victory
The 1971 war was the golden phase of MiG-21. MiG-21 of the Indian Air Force achieved air superiority on the western front. He dropped 4 Pakistani F-104 starfighters, 2 Shenyang F-6, 1 F-86 Cabber and 1C-130 Hercolis. Two F-104 confirmed.
In the first supersonic air battle of the subcontinent, a MiG-21 FL dropped Pakistani F-104 from GSH-23 cannon. MiG-21 defeated F-104, after which Pakistan closed all F-104. In addition, MiG-21 launched deep attacks inside Pakistan at low height at night.
Fly from Amritsar and dropped 500 kg bombs at the Governor House in Dhaka. MiG-21 played a versatile role and had a big hand in India’s victory in war.
Heritage of MiG-21: Honor and Farewell
After serving over 60 years, MiG-21 is being retired in 2025. It was the main aircraft of the Indian Air Force. The pilot considered it as its reliable companion. There was a lack of air conditioning in the summer, the landing speed was high, but its speed and climbing capacity was amazing.
MiG-21 strengthened the defense relations of India-Russia. Promoted the air industry. Accidents occurred, but win and valor are more. MiG-21 proved that anything is possible with courage and technology.
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