MiG-21S
Mikoyan-Gurevich · Soviet Union · first flew 1965 · fighter
The MiG-21S (Fishbed-J) is a Soviet Air Force third-generation MiG-21 variant combining the improved Sapfir-21 radar with four underwing pylons and a wider dorsal spine for additional fuel, representing a significant capability step over the PFM family.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, delta |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 15.76 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- MiG-21 tailed delta with broad-chord fin base of the third-generation
- Four underwing pylons versus the PFM's two
- Large dorsal spine housing additional fuel
The large dorsal spine is the most visible new feature compared to the PFM. The four-pylon wing, while significant tactically, requires close inspection to distinguish from later two-pylon variants seen with empty outer stations. The broad-chord fin base distinguishes third-generation variants from the narrow-fin early series.
Specifications
- The MiG-21S has a length of 15.76 m (52 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
The S variant introduced the RP-22 Sapfir-21 radar (NATO: Jay Bird) which gave a genuine look-down/shoot-down capability improvement over the RP-21. Combined with four underwing pylons for additional missiles or drop tanks, the MiG-21S addressed range and weapons-load criticisms levelled at earlier variants. It was produced for VVS use only — unlike the export MiG-21M — and entered service in 1965.
Variants
The MiG-21S is closely related to the MiG-21SM (with the more powerful R-13-300 engine) and the MiG-21SMT (with an even larger dorsal spine). The MiG-21M was a simplified export version of the S without the RP-22 radar.
Where you'll see it
VVS fighter regiments flew the MiG-21S as the primary third-generation variant before the SM and MF entered service. It was not exported, which limited its operational spread compared to other MiG-21 marks. Soviet examples were concentrated in European Theatre regiments.
Related aircraft
- MiG-21R
- MiG-21FL
- MiG-21PFM
- MiG-25
- A-7 Corsair II
- North American Rockwell OV-10 Bronco
- SOKO J-21 Jastreb
- Sukhoi Su-7U
AircraftIQ — the aircraft field guide: 4,893 recognition guides, live overhead identification, works offline.