Mikoyan Mig-21 -

: Its distinctive delta wing design and Tumansky R-11F-300 engine allowed it to exceed Mach 2.0 .

: Pilots often called it the "Balalaika" due to its wing shape resembling the Russian stringed instrument, or the "Pencil" ( Ołówek ) in Poland for its long, thin fuselage. Operational History Mikoyan MiG-21

: Unlike its complex Western counterparts, the MiG-21 was designed for mass production and ease of maintenance, earning it the nickname "The AK-47 of combat aircraft". : Its distinctive delta wing design and Tumansky

The MiG-21 has participated in more conflicts than almost any other jet fighter, proving its effectiveness even against technologically superior foes. The MiG-21 has participated in more conflicts than

The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 (NATO reporting name: ) is a legendary Soviet-designed supersonic fighter and interceptor that became the most-produced supersonic jet in aviation history. First flown in prototype form in 1955 and entering service in 1959, it served as a cornerstone of Cold War aerial combat for over 60 nations across four continents. Design and Capabilities