MiG I-221
Mikoyan-Gurevich · Soviet Union · first flew 1943 · fighter
The MiG I-221 was a Soviet single-seat high-altitude fighter prototype developed in 1943, representing Mikoyan-Gurevich's attempt to create a specialised interceptor capable of engaging German high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft such as the Ju 86R.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8.79 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Single-seat high-altitude Soviet prototype
- Long-nosed inline engine with turbo-supercharger
- Two-stage supercharged powerplant
Resembles the MiG-3 family but features enlarged supercharger intakes and a longer nose; distinguished from standard MiG fighters by its high-altitude optimised engine installation.
Specifications
- The MiG I-221 has a length of 8.79 m (29 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11 m (36 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 690 km/h (429 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Built as part of a series of high-altitude research aircraft (I-220 through I-225), the I-221 was powered by a two-stage supercharged AM-39 engine. The high-altitude programme produced useful data but no production aircraft, as the Luftwaffe ceased high-altitude operations before the types could be deployed.
Variants
The I-221 was one of a family of high-altitude prototypes; related types include the I-220, I-222, I-224, and I-225, each with different powerplants.
Where you'll see it
Never entered operational service; evaluated as a research and development aircraft only.
Related aircraft
- MiG I-222
- MiG I-230
- Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-8
- Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-1
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- Brewster XA-32
- Curtiss P-40 N Warhawk
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