Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21F "Fishbed"

Mikoyan-Gurevich · Soviet Union · first flew 1959 · fighter

The MiG-21F (Fishbed-C) is the first major production variant of the iconic MiG-21 series, a clear-weather day fighter optimised for speed and climb performance at the expense of avionics.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Mid-mounted, delta
E — Engines	1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted
F — Fuselage	13.46 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Original clear-weather MiG-21 production variant
Single turbojet with large circular nose intake
Short-range day fighter with spine-mounted fuel saddle

Distinguished from later MiG-21 variants by the smaller nose intake lacking a radar bullet, a narrower rear fuselage, and the absence of the pronounced spine associated with later marks. The tailed delta configuration is instantly recognisable.

Specifications

The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21F has a length of 13.46 m (44 ft).
It has a wingspan of 7.15 m (23 ft).
Its maximum speed is 2175 km/h (1351 mph).
Typical crew: 1.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Entering production in 1959, the MiG-21F was the baseline variant that established the design which would go on to become one of the most-produced supersonic fighters in history. It was produced in limited numbers before more capable variants with radar replaced it, but the F's airframe and engine set the template. The aircraft was later licence-built in China as the J-7 and in India and Czechoslovakia.

Variants

The MiG-21F led directly to the MiG-21F-13, which added a pair of K-13 Atoll missiles. These early Fishbeds were followed by the radar-equipped MiG-21PF and a long line of successors.

Where you'll see it

Operated by Soviet Air Forces and exported to Warsaw Pact and non-aligned nations. Licence production in Czechoslovakia (as the S-102/S-103 series) extended the type's reach. Survivors remain in museums.

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