Aeroplane: Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21R (NATO: Fishbed-H)
USSR
fighter
1971
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Span
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7.15 m (23 ft 5 in) |
Length
|
14.10 m (46 ft 3 in) |
Take-off weight
|
8,100 kg |
Maximum speed
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1,700 kph (918 kt / 1,056 mph) |
Ceiling
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16,000 m (52,500 ft) |
Range |
1,600 km (994 mi / 864 NM) |
Armament
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two R-3S (AA-2) air-to-air missiles |
Powerplant
:
a R-11F2S-300 turbojet rated at 6,175 kG (13,117 lbf) |
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A reconnaissance variant of third-generation MiG-21.
Third generation of MiG-21 was developed drawing on Vietnam and Israeli-Arab wars experience, which showed the need to increase the range and weapon load. First MiG-21 of the new generation was the MiG-21R reconnaissance fighter, with enlarged spine, housing additional 340 litre fuel tank, second pair of underwing pylons where drop tanks could be attached.
MiG-21R was fitted with various types of ventral camera pods, underwing ECM pods and upgraded avionics set. The aircraft could also serve with the pod removed, as missile–only interceptor. The MiG-21R was manufactured during 1965–71.
Polish Air Force purchased 36 aircraft, delivered 1968–1972. They were operated by 32nd Tactical Reconnaissance Regiment in Sochaczew. The aircraft side number '1125' served with the regiment from January 13, 1972.
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