Difference between revisions of "MiG-21F-13"

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m (Pros and Cons: Correction for in-game performance with underrated engine (3350 kgf vs 3900 irl and 4650 wet vs 5900 irl - bug report alraedy submitted back in september). Included joystick performance characteristics.)
(→‎Suspended armament: Updated)
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{{Specs-Card|code=mig-21_f13}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
−
| about = Russian jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = Soviet jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = the Chinese license-built version
+
| usage = other versions
−
| link = J-7II
+
| link = MiG-21 (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=mig-21_f13
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 +
}}
 +
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
Only a few months before the introduction of the MiG-21F into Soviet service, the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis took place in 1958, where the [[AIM-9B Sidewinder]] missile employed by F-86 Sabres became the first instance of air-to-air missiles being used in combat. However, these early missiles had many flaws, and on September 28, 1958, one AIM-9B failed to detonate while striking a [[J-4|PLAAF MiG-17]], becoming lodged in the rear fuselage and returning to base completely intact. This missile was quickly shipped back to the Soviet Union for analysis and backwards engineered into the [[R-3S|K-13]] missile system. A quick directive was issued to update existing (MiG-17 and MiG-19) and future aircraft projects (MiG-21) to use this new missile. An updated variant of the MiG-21F with one cannon removed to fit the required avionics for firing the K-13 missile would enter service shortly after as the '''MiG-21F-13'''.
−
{{break}}
 
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Russian jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.91 "Night Vision"]].
 
  
−
After the Korean War, several nations came out with various aircraft which would out-fly opposing aircraft, especially in a dogfight. The U.S. introduced the Lockheed F-104 Starfighter and Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter while European nations France, England and Sweden rolled out the Dassault Mirage F-1, Mirage III, English Electric Lightning, Hawker Hunter and the Saab Draken. At this time the Soviet Union was working on further developing the twin-engine MiG-19 but realized what it actually needed was a fast, single-engine light-weight fighter in what ultimately became the most highly produced supersonic fighter in the world and used by over 60 countries. This fighter was the Ye-66a (‘‘Ye’’ stands for “Yedinitsa” or single-unit), later changed to MiG-21 F-13 or as dubbed by NATO, the Fishbed-C. The F-13 designation identifies that this is an updated (Forsirovannyy) version which can equip the K-13 missile system capable of using the R-3S air-to-air missiles.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update 1.91 "Night Vision"]], is a complete departure in playstyle and doctrine from the aircraft that precede it in the tech tree. Unlike the MiG-15, 17, and 19 before it which rely on strong energy retention to win their dogfights at lower speeds due to high speed compression, the MiG-21F-13 is on the complete opposite of the spectrum, having abysmal energy retention and low speed manoeuvrability, and instead relying in its incredible AoA and instantaneous turning at higher speeds to best its opponents. The aircraft is best played conservatively, as its weak air-to-air missiles and singular, low velocity gun with a comically small ammo pool of 60 rounds does not allow for aggressive play. It is best to fly off away from the battlefield at first, letting the furballs form away from you before picking the most favourable engagements against distracted targets, utilizing hit-and-run tactics similar to the early [[F-104 (Family)|F-104]]s of the same rank.
−
[[File:MiG-21_smigol_chat_bann.png|400px|thumb|left|The sleek and aerodynamic '''{{PAGENAME}}'''.]]
 
−
The {{PAGENAME}} was built to be a point defence interceptor not an air-defence fighter slated for combat missions, basically a short-range day fighter. Essentially it was a missile which houses a pilot, one 30 mm cannon and two R-3S air-to-air missiles. The sleek airframe was made with aluminium alloys, steel, magnesium and fibreglass. The air-intake cone automatically adjusts during the flight to help the aircraft remain aerodynamic. The fighter sported a delta wing with a 57° leading edge and even the all-moving tailplane utilizes the swept feature. Everything about this jet focus on speed which lends it reaching out to the Mach 2 range. The strength of the aircraft is its speed in a straight line whether in a climb, level flight or a dive, however, when it turns at all, it haemorrhages its energy and when it gets below 700 kph, it is difficult to get back up to speed without diving to make up that speed. When caught near the ground and going slow will be extremely frustrating for a MiG-21 pilot.
 
  
−
The {{PAGENAME}} as-built shaped like a missile excels in air-to-air combat, but beware of turning or manoeuvres, though they will slow you enough to get behind an enemy fighter, it may also slow you enough for another enemy fighter to get a missile lock or gun solution on you. Always be aware of your surroundings. Though this fighter can be outfitted with rockets or bombs (250 and 500 kg), these options should be reserved for special situations as the attacker/bomber function was never designed as a multi-role function as it was with the [[F-4C Phantom II|F-4C]]. The R-3S missiles can be a challenge to get used to, so newer pilots may elect to outfit the S-5K rockets and use them to go after bombers. With only 60 rounds of 30 mm cannon ammunition, trigger control is a must or else you will be waiting often for a reload timer to count down or will be frequently returning to base to reload.
+
Pilots who can master the MiG-21F's less-forgiving flight characteristics and engagement doctrine can look forward to the [[MiG-21SMT]], a major upgrade in weaponry and flight handling over the MiG-21F, while retaining the same basic playstyle. Also, players who truly enjoy the MiG-21 flight performance at this rank and are looking for a premium aircraft to aid in the research of the Soviet tech tree should consider the premium [[MiG-21S (R-13-300)|MiG-21S]], a heavily upgraded MiG-21 at a slightly higher battle rating utilizing a stronger engine, more missiles, a radar, and a new cannon with a larger ammo pool.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
−
<!--''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
−
[[File:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 003.jpg‎|450px|thumb|right|Looking at the business end of a '''{{PAGENAME}}'''.]]
+
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
−
Due to the {{PAGENAME}} being an interceptor fighter, its main purpose is to interdict enemy aircraft. For this purpose, a jet fighter should meet certain criteria such as being light-weight, fast, aerodynamic and cheap to build and maintain. The {{PAGENAME}} fits all of these criteria to a tee. Sitting at a take-off weight of 9.5 tons and power output from the R-11F-300 jet engine of 3178.2 kgf, the MiG was a rocket compared to other contemporary fighters/interceptor aircraft. The closest comparable aircraft in-game are the Hunter F 1, Hunter F.6 and the Super Mystere B2. Pound for pound and thrust for thrust, the Hunter F 1 is the closest with a take-off weight of 9.5 tons and power output from a Rolls-Royce Avon Mk. 113 engine with 3188.1 kgf, however, the final thrust output was no contest with the {{PAGENAME}} able to fly 1,000 kph faster than the Hunter at top speed.
+
Due to the {{PAGENAME}} being an interceptor fighter, its main purpose is to interdict enemy aircraft. For this purpose, a jet fighter should meet certain criteria such as being light-weight, fast, aerodynamic and cheap to build and maintain. The {{PAGENAME}} fits all of these criteria to a tee. Sitting at a take-off weight of 9.5 tons and an afterburner thrust output from the R-11F-300 jet engine of 5,480 kgf, the MiG was a rocket compared to other contemporary fighters/interceptor aircraft. The closest comparable aircraft in-game are the Hunter F 1, Hunter F.6 and the Super Mystere B2. Pound for pound and thrust for thrust, the Hunter F 1 is the closest with a take-off weight of 9.5 tons and power output from a Rolls-Royce Avon Mk. 113 engine with 3,188 kgf, however, the final thrust output was no contest with the {{PAGENAME}} able to fly 1,000 km/h faster than the Hunter at top speed.
 +
[[File:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 003.jpg|350x350px|thumb|right|Upper view of a {{PAGENAME}}.]]
 +
Horizontal turning manoeuvrability in the MiG, for the most part, is non-existent. Due to the shape of the wings and the aerodynamics of the entire aircraft, it is built mostly for high-speed low-drag in a straight flight and that becomes apparent when it enters into a manoeuvre or a extended turn where it begins to bleed speed at a horrendous rate. With no adjustment to the throttle, a {{PAGENAME}} can drop from 1,000 km/h to 600 - 700 km/h just by making a turn or manoeuvring from flying in a straight line. MiG pilots must take into account when they attempt evasive manoeuvres after a missile is fired at them as doing so they may avoid the missile, but they may also end up flying under 700 km/h which is a bad place to be and can be difficult to return from if there is no room to dive to build up speed. The best bet to use the {{PAGENAME}} is up at higher altitudes where the jet flies faster and has room to dive if the speed needs to be built up after turning or manoeuvring.
 +
 
 +
While the {{PAGENAME}} can be outfitted with 250 kg or 500 kg bombs, adding the extra weight impacts this fighter even more. With the bombs placed on under-wing pylons, it decreases the roll-rate of the aircraft having that weight away from the centre of the aircraft (or in comparison to a clean aircraft – without bombs). Bombs are an option for the aircraft, however, due to needing to maintain speeds above 700 km/h using the MiG as a bomber is less effective and can expose this aircraft to other fighters which prey on low and slow aircraft.
 +
 
 +
The strength of the aircraft is its speed in a straight line whether in a climb, level flight or a dive, however, when it turns at all, it haemorrhages its energy and when it gets below 700 km/h, it is difficult to get back up to speed without diving to make up that speed. When caught near the ground and going slow will be extremely frustrating for a MiG-21 pilot.
  
−
Manoeuvrability in the MiG, for the most part, is non-existent. Due to the shape of the wings and the aerodynamics of the entire aircraft, it is built mostly for high-speed low-drag in a straight flight and that becomes apparent when it enters into a manoeuvre or a turn where it begins to bleed speed at a horrendous rate. With no adjustment to the throttle, a {{PAGENAME}} can drop from 1,000 kph to 600 - 700 kph just by making a turn or manoeuvring from flying in a straight line. MiG pilots must take into account when they attempt evasive manoeuvres after a missile is fired at them as doing so they may avoid the missile, but they may also end up flying under 700 kph which is a bad place to be and can be difficult to return from if there is no room to dive to build up speed. The best bet to use the {{PAGENAME}} is up at higher altitudes where the jet flies faster and has room to dive if the speed needs to be built up after turning or manoeuvring.
+
Some characteristics to remember for Simulator battles:
−
 
−
While the {{PAGENAME}} can be outfitted with 250 kg or 500 kg bombs, adding the extra weight impacts this fighter even more. With the bombs placed on under-wing pylons, it decreases the roll-rate of the aircraft having that weight away from the centre of the aircraft (or in comparison to a clean aircraft – without bombs). Bombs are an option for the aircraft, however, due to needing to maintain speeds above 700 kph using the MiG as a bomber is less effective and can expose this aircraft to other fighters which prey on low and slow aircraft.
 
  
−
[[File:MiG-21_kohler_001.jpg|450px|thumb|right|The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' in an agressive power-climb ready to intercept.]]
+
* Abnormally strong up-righting torque (for a jet) can be troublesome when aiming
 +
* Negative pitch stability above 500 km/h
 +
* Deep-stalled flat-spinning MiG-21s cannot recover from spin
 +
* Rapid energy bleeding can allow you to go from Mach 1 to landing speeds in a single hard 90 degree turn with trimming controls, allowing for rapid base return and landings
 +
* Bubble canopy allows excellent peripheral vision; nothing hindering the line of sight
 +
* Does not spin easily in a positive G-load stall
 +
* Stable unstalled inverted spin with awkward recovery technique for joystick pilots
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
−
|-
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
−
|-
 
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 13,000 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 13,000 m)
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 2,209 || 2,194 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 34.6 || 35.2 || 98.3 || 90.7 || 750
+
! Stock
 +
| 2,212 || 2,197 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 34.6 || 35.1 || 98.1 || 90.8 || rowspan="2" | 750
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 2,277 || 2,240 || 31.8 || 33.0 || 143.7 || 120.0
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
+
|}
 +
[[File:MiG-21_smigol_chat_bann.png|400px|thumb|The sleek and aerodynamic {{PAGENAME}}.]]
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 13,000 m)
+
! colspan="6" | Features
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
+
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ??? || ??? || {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || 750
+
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
==== Details ====
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | Features
+
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
 +
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
+
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X    <!-- ✓ -->
+
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 524 || 450 || ~12 || ~6
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | Limits
+
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Combat flaps<br>(km/h)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! + !! -
+
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 550 || ~11 || ~5
+
| < 650 || < 600 || < 900 || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
+
! colspan="2" | Clean Configuration Lift Performance
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
+
! Zero-Thrust, 1G Stall speed<br>(km/h)
−
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
+
! Corner speed
−
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
+
(km/h)
−
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 650 || < 600 || < 780 || N/A
+
| 210-244 || 757
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 +
==== Engine performance ====
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
+
! colspan="3" | Engine
 +
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 +
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-11F-300 || 1
 +
| colspan="2" | 5,212 kg || colspan="3" | 315 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
 +
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
 +
|-
 +
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 +
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 33m fuel
 +
|-
 +
| 1,120 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
 +
| 5,821 kg || 6,408 kg || 7,006 kg || 7,242 kg || 9,500 kg
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
 +
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
+
! Condition || 100% || WEP
 +
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 33m fuel || MTOW
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Optimal altitude
+
| ''Stationary'' || 3,484 kgf || 5,231 kgf
−
! 100% Engine power
+
| 0.90 || 0.82 || 0.75 || 0.72 || 0.55
−
! WEP Engine power
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 0 m || 3,350 kgf || 5,025 kgf
+
| ''Optimal'' || 3,484 kgf<br>(0 km/h) || 5,324 kgf<br>(1,200 km/h)
 +
| 0.91 || 0.83 || 0.76 || 0.74 || 0.56
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
<!--''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
  
 
;Armour
 
;Armour
  
 
* 16 mm Steel – behind the pilot's seat
 
* 16 mm Steel – behind the pilot's seat
−
* 25 mm Steel – pilot’s headrest
+
* 25 mm Steel – pilot's headrest
 
* 65 mm Bulletproof glass – forward canopy windscreen
 
* 65 mm Bulletproof glass – forward canopy windscreen
  
−
With the {{PAGENAME}} configured for and operated as an interceptor, not much thought was put into protecting the aircraft as it was relatively cheap and easy to build and maintain. However, protections were put in place for the pilot which on the other hand was a valuable asset. Protective steel behind the seat and pilot’s headrest along with the 65 mm bulletproof glass helped protect the pilot from defensive fire coming from bomber turrets or from smaller calibre guns found on many Western fighters of the time.  
+
Not much thought was put into protecting the aircraft as it was relatively cheap and easy to build and maintain. However, protections were put in place for the pilot which on the other hand was a valuable asset. Protective steel behind the seat and pilot's headrest along with the 65 mm bulletproof glass helped protect the pilot from defensive fire coming from bomber turrets or from smaller calibre guns found on many Western fighters of the time.
 +
 
 +
Due to its speed and limited weapon load-out, further protections for the aircraft's critical component were not necessary and thus left off the aircraft to allow for its light-weight and quick intercept capability.
  
−
The {{PAGENAME}}’s role as an interceptor basically had it scramble from the airfield when enemy fighters/bombers entered the area and it went full afterburner to reach attack altitude where it would make several passes, down the aircraft and return to the airfield. Due to its speed and limited weapon load-out, further protections for the aircraft’s critical component were not necessary and thus left off the aircraft to allow for its light-weight and quick intercept capability.
+
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
 +
|-
 +
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
 +
|-
 +
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}}
 +
|-
 +
|}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
<!--''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|NR-30 (30 mm)}}
 
{{main|NR-30 (30 mm)}}
  
−
This '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' has the following offensive weapons:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* 1 x 30 mm NR-30 cannon (60 RPG)
+
* 1 x 30 mm NR-30 cannon, nose-mounted (60 rpg)
  
−
The {{PAGENAME}} has been outfitted with a single 30 mm Nudelman-Rikhter NR-30 cannon. This gun is the perfect weapon for an interceptor class aircraft as it is large enough calibre to do some serious damage, however, this cannon only houses 60 rounds of ammunition. While the small ammunition pool appears to be a negative point to the aircraft, minimizing weight is necessary to ensure this aircraft can intercept inbound enemy aircraft. Trigger control is a necessary skill the pilot must use to ensure enough rounds available to make the necessary shots before returning to base to reload.
+
The {{PAGENAME}} has been outfitted with a single 30 mm Nudelman-Rikhter NR-30 cannon. This gun is a large enough calibre to do some serious damage, however, this cannon only houses 60 rounds of ammunition. While the small ammunition pool appears to be a negative point to the aircraft, minimizing weight is necessary to ensure this aircraft can intercept inbound enemy aircraft. Trigger control is a fundamental skill when attacking aircraft, similarly to many previous Soviet aircraft on the previous early ranks.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
<!--''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
−
{{main|S-5K|S-24|R-3S|OFAB-250-270 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-54 (500 kg)}}
+
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="15%" | 1 !! width="15%" | 2 !! width="15%" | 3
 +
| rowspan="8" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-21_SPS-K_(Germany).png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250sv]] bombs
 +
| 1 || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[FAB-500M-54 (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500M-54]] bombs
 +
| 1 || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[ZB-360 incendiary]] bombs
 +
| 1 || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[S-5K]] rockets
 +
| 16 || || 16
 +
|-
 +
! [[S-24]] rockets
 +
| 1 || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[R-3S]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! 490 l drop tanks
 +
| || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
* 1 x 490 l drop tank
 +
* 2 x R-3S missiles
 
* 32 x S-5K rockets
 
* 32 x S-5K rockets
 
* 2 x S-24 rockets
 
* 2 x S-24 rockets
−
* 2 x R-3S air-to-air missiles
+
* 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (500 kg total)
−
* 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs (total 500 kg)
+
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-54 bombs (1,000 kg total)
−
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-54 bombs (total 1,000 kg)
+
* 2 x ZB-360 incendiary bombs
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
−
While classed and built as a fighter-interceptor with the purpose of attacking enemy aircraft invading the homeland, the {{PAGENAME}} can be outfitted with air-to-air ordnance to support this fighting tactic or it can also load up on ground-attack ordnance which can inflict some damage. Though available, this is not a strong suit for this aircraft.
+
;Air-to-air combat armament
  
−
;Air-to-air combat
+
In conjunction with its 30 mm NR-30 autocannon, it can also be outfitted with two additional air-to-air combat options. First is the R-3S air-to-air missiles of which only two are allocated at a time. When on the tail of an enemy aircraft there are two tones which will be emitted when attempting a missile lock, the first tone is the system searching for a target, once the target is locked onto, the tone will noticeably change. Once changed to the second tone, the missile can be fired. An enemy fighter which is paying attention to any notifications for an inbound missile does have a chance to avoid the missile, however, the longer they wait to initiate, the harder it will be for them to avoid being hit by the missile.
  
−
As a true fighter-interceptor, the {{PAGENAME}} in conjunction with its 30 mm NR-30 autocannon, it can also be outfitted with two additional air-to-air combat options. First is the R-3S air-to-air missiles of which only two are allocated at a time. When on the tail of an enemy aircraft there are two tones which will be emitted when attempting a missile lock, the first tone is the system searching for a target, once the target is locked onto, the tone will noticeably change. Once changed to the second tone, the missile can be fired. An enemy fighter which is paying attention to any notifications for an inbound missile does have a chance to avoid the missile, however, the longer they wait to initiate, the harder it will be for them to avoid being hit by the missile.  
+
Secondary air-to-air armament comes in the package of 32 S-5K unguided rockets. Though less than accurate when fired off singly, salvos of these rockets will increase the chance that at least one or two rockets may hit the intended target. This ordnance is difficult to use against faster fighters, however, it may be ideal to utilise against slower bombers which may have a more difficult time out flying or outmanoeuvring these rockets.
  
−
Secondary air-to-air armament comes in the package of 32 S-5K unguided rockets. Though less than accurate when fired off singly, salvos of these rockets will increase the chance that at least one or two rockets may hit the intended target. This ordnance is difficult to use against faster fighters, however, it may be ideal to utilise against slower bombers which may have a more difficult time out flying or outmanoeuvring these rockets.
+
;Ground attack armament
  
−
;Ground attack combat
+
The {{PAGENAME}} can carry ordnance which is more specifically used for ground attack than aerial attack. Two options for rockets are available, the 32 x S-5K rockets already mentioned in the air-to-air combat section and the 2 x S-24 240 mm unguided rockets. The S-5K rockets can be used to great effect on anti-aircraft artillery, lightly armoured vehicles and aircraft landing, taking-off or parked on runways waiting for repairs or reloading. Since the S-5K is unguided and therefore not highly accurate, especially being launched from the {{PAGENAME}} and low altitudes, it is best to launch large salvos at the intended targets to increase the chances a hit is made. The S-24 rocket is just over two metres long and therefore only two can be outfitted on the aircraft. This rocket has its similarities to the U.S. unguided rocket the [[Tiny Tim]]. These larger rockets pack a punch and can be used for enemies on the ground clustered together, harder targets such as medium and heavy tanks, reinforced pillboxes and can even whittle away at the enemy bases.
  
−
Though developed as a fast interceptor, the {{PAGENAME}} can carry ordnance which is more specifically used for ground attack than aerial attack. Two options for rockets are available, the 32 x S-5K rockets already mentioned in the air-to-air combat section and the 2 x S-24 240 mm unguided rockets. The S-5K rockets can be used to great effect on anti-aircraft artillery, lightly armoured vehicles and aircraft landing, taking-off or parked on runways waiting for repairs or reloading. Since the S-5K is unguided and therefore not highly accurate, especially being launched from the {{PAGENAME}} and low altitudes, it is best to launch large salvos at the intended targets to increase the chances a hit is made. The S-24 rocket is just over two metres long and therefore only two can be outfitted on the aircraft. This rocket has its similarities to the U.S. unguided rocket the [[Tiny Tim]]. These larger rockets pack a punch and can be used for enemies on the ground clustered together, harder targets such as medium and heavy tanks, reinforced pillboxes and can even whittle away at the enemy bases.
+
A final ground attack option is to outfit bombs to the aircraft in either total weight of 500 kg or 1,000 kg. Either 250 kg or 500 kg bombs can be mounted to underwing pylons to be used on ground targets, however, while these are attached to the aircraft, its overall speed and manoeuvrability will suffer. Bombing with the {{PAGENAME}} can be a bit of a challenge without a bombsight or trying to hit a target while in a dive. Attempting a horizontal attack reduces the overall speed of the aircraft and makes it an easier target for enemy fighters waiting to pounce.
  
−
A final ground attack option is to outfit bombs to the aircraft in either total weight of 500 kg or 1,000 kg. Either 250 kg or 500 kg bombs can be mounted to underwing pylons to be used on ground targets, however, while these are attached to the aircraft, its overall speed and manoeuvrability will suffer. Bombing with the {{PAGENAME}} can be a bit of a challenge without a bombsight or trying to hit a target while in a dive. Attempting a horizontal attack reduces the overall speed of the aircraft and makes it an easier target for enemy fighters waiting to pounce.
 
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<!--
 
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=== Defensive armament ===
 
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''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.''
 
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-->
 
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
The {{PAGENAME}} was designed to be a fighter-interceptor and thus all of its design features shape it into virtually a missile with a cockpit. This aircraft wasn't designed to carry the load the [[F-4C]], [[G.91 YS]] or the [[Super Mystere B2]], but it was built for speed and to bring along the minimal amount of armament to do its job.  
+
The {{PAGENAME}} was designed to be a fighter-interceptor and thus all of its design features shape it into virtually a missile with a cockpit. This aircraft wasn't designed to carry the load the [[F-4C]], [[G.91 YS]] or the [[Super Mystere B2]] could, but it was built for speed and to bring along the minimal amount of armament to do its job.
  
−
As a fighter-interceptor, the {{PAGENAME}} needed to get from Point A (the airbase) to Point B (the inbound enemy aircraft) in the shortest amount of time possible, shoot it and return to base to get ready for the next one. This jet can remain fast if it is flying in a straight line, however do not try to sustain dogfights in it. Despite this MiG receiving a new FM update on the 7th of Nov. 2019 (weight reduction, aerodynamics and climb rate improved), it still has a high AoA, meaning it bleeds a good amount of speed in hard turns.
+
'''Air defence role'''
  
−
The best use of this aircraft is to utilise its excellent speed and rate of climb and gain altitude and begin to level off when you are either at bomber altitude or just above any enemy fighters flying around. It is here you can use the great [[Boom & Zoom]] qualities of the aircraft and select a target and begin to dive on it. It is during this phase when you can attempt to get a lock with the R-3S air-to-air missiles and launch it or you can strafe any unwary targets with the 30 mm NR-30 autocannon. Extremely short bursts are a must in order to conserve ammunition (only 60 rounds total), but this powerful gun only needs one or two good shots to remove a wing, take out a pilot or disable an engine. Once shots have been taken, regardless if they hit or missed, engage the afterburner and return to higher altitudes and set up for another Boom & Zoom run. [[Boom & Run]] techniques also work in that you can use the phenomenal speed of the {{PAGENAME}} to outrun just about any aircraft on the map (however beware of the [[F-4C]] which can keep pace if not outrun the {{PAGENAME}}).
+
As a fighter-interceptor, the {{PAGENAME}} needed to get from Point A (the airbase) to Point B (the inbound enemy aircraft) in the shortest amount of time possible, shoot it and return to base to get ready for the next one. This jet can remain fast if it is flying in a straight line, however do not try to sustain dogfights in it. As it still has a high AoA, meaning it bleeds a good amount of speed in hard turns. The {{PAGENAME}} can be outfitted with air-to-air ordnance to support this fighting tactic or it can also load up on ground-attack ordnance which can inflict some damage. Though payload is available, this is not a strong suit for this aircraft.
 +
[[File:MiG-21_kohler_001.jpg|325x325px|thumb|right|The {{PAGENAME}} in an aggressive power-climb ready to intercept.]]
 +
The best use of this aircraft is to utilise its excellent speed and rate of climb and gain altitude and begin to level off when you are either at bomber altitude or just above any enemy fighters flying around. It is here you can use the great [[Boom & Zoom]] qualities of the aircraft and select a target and begin to dive on it. It is during this phase when you can attempt to get a lock with the R-3S air-to-air missiles and launch it or you can strafe any unwary targets with the 30 mm NR-30 autocannon. Extremely short bursts are a must in order to conserve ammunition (only 60 rounds total), but this powerful gun only needs one or two good shots to remove a wing, take out a pilot or disable an engine.
  
−
Options are available to use this aircraft in the role of ground-attack, however, this may be an extreme challenge, especially to any novice fighter jet pilots. While the 30 mm autocannon is standard in all of the ordnance load-outs, when adding a secondary suspended armament, you are limited to only one type. In this case, you will need to choose from 32 light-weight S-5K rockets, two S-24 rockets, two 250 kg bombs or two 500 kg bombs. The added weight and loss of aerodynamics when adding any of this ordnance can be difficult to overcome, especially since this aircraft is built for speed over manoeuvrability.  
+
Once shots have been taken, regardless if they hit or missed, engage the afterburner and return to higher altitudes and set up for another Boom & Zoom run. [[Boom & Run]] techniques also work in that you can use the phenomenal speed of the {{PAGENAME}} to outrun just about any aircraft on the map (however beware of the [[F-4C]] which can keep pace if not outrun the {{PAGENAME}}).
 +
 
 +
The R-3S missiles can be a challenge to get used to, so newer pilots may elect to outfit the S-5K rockets and use them to go after bombers or large fighters. With only 60 rounds of 30 mm cannon ammunition, trigger control is a must or else you will be waiting often for a reload timer to count down or will be frequently returning to base to reload.
 +
 
 +
'''Ground attack role'''
 +
 
 +
Options are available to use this aircraft in the role of ground-attack, however, this may be an extreme challenge, especially to any novice fighter jet pilots. While the 30 mm autocannon is standard in all of the ordnance load-outs, when adding a secondary suspended armament, you are limited to only one type. In this case, you will need to choose from 32 light-weight S-5K rockets, two S-24 rockets, two 250 kg bombs or two 500 kg bombs. The added weight and loss of aerodynamics when adding any of this ordnance can be difficult to overcome, especially since this aircraft is built for speed over manoeuvrability. Therefore, these options should be reserved for special situations in the late part of a match, as the attacker/bomber function was never designed as a multi-role function as it was with the [[F-4C Phantom II|F-4C]].
  
 
When attacking ground targets, it is best to place the {{PAGENAME}} into a relatively shallow dive, it is important to remember to properly line up for the target ahead of time because with the external ordnance fine-tune manoeuvring can be difficult especially when corrections need to be made at the last minute. Lack of a bombsight makes bombing smaller targets a bit more difficult to hit. When flying low to take on ground targets, make sure you leave yourself an out when the situation turns bad. The best practice here is to ensure you keep your speed up, slow enough to hit the target, but fast enough to get away when the situation turns.
 
When attacking ground targets, it is best to place the {{PAGENAME}} into a relatively shallow dive, it is important to remember to properly line up for the target ahead of time because with the external ordnance fine-tune manoeuvring can be difficult especially when corrections need to be made at the last minute. Lack of a bombsight makes bombing smaller targets a bit more difficult to hit. When flying low to take on ground targets, make sure you leave yourself an out when the situation turns bad. The best practice here is to ensure you keep your speed up, slow enough to hit the target, but fast enough to get away when the situation turns.
  
−
===Modules===
+
=== Radars ===
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
<!--{{main|SRD-5}}-->
−
! Tier
+
The MiG-21F-13 is equipped with a SRD-5 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
−
! colspan="2" |Flight performance
+
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.
−
! Survivability
+
 
−
! colspan="3'" |Weaponry
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
|-
+
! colspan="4" | SRD-5 - Rangefinding radar
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair||Compressor
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 30 mm||||S5K
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
| New boosters||
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| ||FAB-250||C-24
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| III
+
! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
−
| Wings repair||
+
! {{Annotation|Minimum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
−
|  
+
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking<br/>Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
−
| New 30 mm cannons||||R-3S
+
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking<br/>Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
 
|-
 
|-
−
| IV
+
| 3,000 m || 300 m || ±9° || ±9°
−
| G-suit||Engine
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| ||FAB-500||
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
=== Pros and cons (spaded) ===
+
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Great top speed (true interceptor)
+
* Great top speed and acceleration once spaded
−
* Moderately high acceleration
+
* Has access to 2 x R-3S air-to-air missiles or 2 x S-24 rockets, which can work as air-to-air weapon
−
* Has access to air-to-air missiles (R-3S)
+
* Hard-hitting and accurate 30 mm cannon, quick bursts make 60 rounds last long and are enough for kills
−
* Hard-hitting 30 mm cannon, quick bursts make 60 rounds last long and are enough for kills
+
* Although limited, ordnance options are available when needed
−
* Great maneuverability at high speeds (and low speeds as of Update 7.11.2019), can sustain 11G - 12G even at 1,200 km/h IAS (can also pull 13G for a second), best-used with Boom & Zoom tactics
+
* Very good instant turn at all speeds; does not spin easily in a positive G-load stall; stable in simulator
−
* Fairly small target; as of November 2019 the MiG-21F-13 has the smallest wingspan for a playable aircraft in the entire game
+
* Can sustain 11G - 12G even at 1,200 km/h IAS (can also pull 13G for a second)
−
* Multiple choices for suspended armaments depending on the map being played
 
−
* Very good roll rate at all speeds
 
−
* Has access to one of the larges rockets with a timed fuse, the S-24 which may be used against aircraft.
 
−
* Does not spin easily in a positive G-load stall
 
−
* Rapid energy bleeding can allow you to go from mach 1 to landing speeds in a single hard 90 degree turn with trimming controls, allowing for rapid base return and landings
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Only one gun with 60 rounds of ammunition, a minuscule 3.6 seconds total firing time (compared to 24 seconds of the 3x gunpod loadout of the F4 Phantom)
+
* Sole gun with 60 rounds; difficult for newcomers, a minuscule 3.6 seconds total firing time (compared to 24 seconds of the 3 x gunpods of the F-4 Phantom)
 +
* No countermeasures of any sort; manoeuvring alone must be used to counter AAM
 
* Quirky rudder characteristics on mouse aim
 
* Quirky rudder characteristics on mouse aim
−
* Missiles have a short lock-on range and are unreliable due to firing orientation requirements for a consistent hit
+
* AAM missiles are unreliable and slow
−
* Mediocre when used against ground targets and as an air defence interceptor
 
−
* Single cannon (no back up during jams)
 
 
* Single type suspended armament, no multi-role options such as missiles + bombs or rockets + bombs
 
* Single type suspended armament, no multi-role options such as missiles + bombs or rockets + bombs
−
* Stable unstalled inverted spin with awkward recovery technique for joystick pilots
+
* Flight performance will be limited until flight modifications have been researched
−
* Abnormally strong up-righting torque (for a jet) can be annoying when aiming
 
−
* Weak engine; the [[CL-13B Mk.6]] has more thrust when spaded compared to a stock MiG-21's dry stock thrust.
 
−
* Negative pitch stability above 500 kph
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
This fighter was the Ye-66a ("Ye" stands for "Yedinitsa" or single-unit), later changed to MiG-21 F-13 or as dubbed by NATO, the Fishbed-C. The F-13 designation identifies as an updated (Forsirovannyy) version which can equip the K-13 missile system capable of using the R-3S air-to-air missiles.
  
 
The MiG-21 series of planes would become the most widely-used family of fighter jets in the world, with over 4,000 produced, including license-built copies in China, India and Czechoslovakia. The roots of this highly successful combat aircraft started in the mid-1950s, with the Soviet desire to create a Mach-2 capable light fighter. The first MiG-21F prototypes were presented at the Tushino air show in June 1956, and deliveries started in 1958. The model, "Fishbed C" in NATO parlance, was widely exported. In the Soviet Union, it was replaced by the MiG-21PF model after 1961.
 
The MiG-21 series of planes would become the most widely-used family of fighter jets in the world, with over 4,000 produced, including license-built copies in China, India and Czechoslovakia. The roots of this highly successful combat aircraft started in the mid-1950s, with the Soviet desire to create a Mach-2 capable light fighter. The first MiG-21F prototypes were presented at the Tushino air show in June 1956, and deliveries started in 1958. The model, "Fishbed C" in NATO parlance, was widely exported. In the Soviet Union, it was replaced by the MiG-21PF model after 1961.
 +
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} was built to be a point defence interceptor not an air-defence fighter slated for combat missions, basically a short-range day fighter. Essentially it was a missile which houses a pilot, one 30 mm cannon and two R-3S air-to-air missiles. The sleek airframe was made with aluminium alloys, steel, magnesium and fibreglass. The air-intake cone automatically adjusts during the flight to help the aircraft remain aerodynamic. The fighter sported a delta wing with a 57° leading edge and even the all-moving tailplane utilizes the swept feature. Everything about this jet focus on speed which lends it reaching out to the Mach 2 range.
  
 
===[[wt:en/news/6350-development-mig-21f-13-the-silver-swallow-en|Devblog]]===
 
===[[wt:en/news/6350-development-mig-21f-13-the-silver-swallow-en|Devblog]]===
−
Development of the MiG-21 dates back to the early 1950s, when the Mikoyan design bureau was conducting development work on a design study for a new swept-wing jet aircraft. Further work on the project led to the creation of a seperate, delta wing prototype, designated ‘Ye-4’. With test flights showing promising results, but also much room for improvement, work on the Ye-4 resumed. Further tweaks and modifications to the design eventually lead to the Ye-5 prototype, which conducted its maiden flight in January 1956.
+
Development of the MiG-21 dates back to the early 1950s, when the Mikoyan design bureau was conducting development work on a design study for a new swept-wing jet aircraft. Further work on the project led to the creation of a separate, delta wing prototype, designated "Ye-4". With test flights showing promising results, but also much room for improvement, work on the Ye-4 resumed. Further tweaks and modifications to the design eventually lead to the Ye-5 prototype, which conducted its maiden flight in January 1956.
  
−
During testing, the Ye-5 received its new designation ‘MiG-21’ and was officially ordered into production. However, production of this initial batch of MiG-21s was rather short, with only a handful of machines being built. In the meantime, an improved version of the aircraft - the Ye-6 - was being worked on. By May 1958, testing of the Ye-6 was deemed to be completed. Shortly afterwards, in July, the Ye-6 was ordered into mass production under the designation MiG-21F and was to replace the initial MiG-21 as the standard production model. The aircraft weaponry consists of two 30 mm automatic cannons. The next step was to equip the aircraft with guided “air-to-air” missiles but in to do this one of the cannons had to be removed.  
+
During testing, the Ye-5 received its new designation "MiG-21" and was officially ordered into production. However, production of this initial batch of MiG-21s was rather short, with only a handful of machines being built. In the meantime, an improved version of the aircraft - the Ye-6 - was being worked on. By May 1958, testing of the Ye-6 was deemed to be completed. Shortly afterwards, in July, the Ye-6 was ordered into mass production under the designation MiG-21F and was to replace the initial MiG-21 as the standard production model. The aircraft weaponry consists of two 30 mm automatic cannons. The next step was to equip the aircraft with guided "air-to-air" missiles but in to do this one of the cannons had to be removed.
  
 
From there on, the MiG-21 would go on to be produced in enormous numbers and in various different variants, both for the needs of the Soviet Union, as well as for export. Around 60 countries have or still use the MiG-21 in various capacities and modifications today.
 
From there on, the MiG-21 would go on to be produced in enormous numbers and in various different variants, both for the needs of the Soviet Union, as well as for export. Around 60 countries have or still use the MiG-21 in various capacities and modifications today.
  
−
Well over 11,000 MiG-21s have been produced, including licence-built versions (more than 2,400 models were built in China under the J-7 designation), since the start of production in 1959, with the legendary ‘Fishbed’ becoming the most mass produced combat aircraft since the Korean War and taking part in more armed conflicts than a single devblog would ever be able to cover. But as an example we can mention its participation in the Vietnam War where the MiG-21 was able to push back against the latest U.S. aircraft (which were in majority).
+
Well over 11,000 MiG-21s have been produced, including licence-built versions (more than 2,400 models were built in China under the J-7 designation), since the start of production in 1959, with the legendary "Fishbed" becoming the most mass produced combat aircraft since the Korean War and taking part in more armed conflicts than a single devblog would ever be able to cover. But as an example we can mention its participation in the Vietnam War where the MiG-21 was able to push back against the latest U.S. aircraft (which were in majority).
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
<!--''An excellent addition to the article would be a video guide, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''-->
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig-21_f13 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
;Images
 
;Images
−
<div><ul>
+
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="150">
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 001.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
Image:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 001.jpg|
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 002.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
Image:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 002.jpg|
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 004.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
Image:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 004.jpg|
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 005.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
Image:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 005.jpg|
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 006.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
Image:Mig 21 wtwallpaper 006.jpg|
−
</ul></div>
+
</gallery>
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos
−
{{Youtube-gallery|dskugw7Ofk8|'''How to Mig 21 - using the [[J-7II]]''' - ''Slick Plays''|1psFOw8yTY4|'''They Made MiG-21 Mode Into A Real Thing!''' - ''Spit_flyer''|t8WZHks0N9U|'''War Thunder Sim - MiG-21 - First Impressions''' - ''Spicysauced''}}
+
{{Youtube-gallery|t8WZHks0N9U|'''Sim - MiG-21 - First Impressions''' - ''Spicysauced''|E941IRtmZdE|'''The Shooting Range #165''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:35 discusses the MiG-21.|1psFOw8yTY4|'''They Made MiG-21 Mode Into A Real Thing!''' - ''Spit_flyer''}}
 +
 
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
<!--''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
  
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''-->
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
−
 
 
−
;Related development
 
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* Chengdu [[J-7II]]
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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* [[wt:en/news/6350-development-mig-21f-13-the-silver-swallow-en|[Development<nowiki>]</nowiki> MiG-21F-13: The Silver Swallow]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/6350-development-mig-21f-13-the-silver-swallow-en|[Development<nowiki>]</nowiki> MiG-21F-13: The Silver Swallow]]
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* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/462648-mig-21f-13/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 
* [https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=68 militaryfactory.com website - Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 (Fishbed)]
 
* [https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=68 militaryfactory.com website - Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 (Fishbed)]
 
* [https://www.historynet.com/the-iconic-mig-21-fishbed.htm historynet.com website - The Iconic MiG-21 "Fishbed"]
 
* [https://www.historynet.com/the-iconic-mig-21-fishbed.htm historynet.com website - The Iconic MiG-21 "Fishbed"]
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* Bridgewater, S., & Gibbs, R. (Eds.). (2019). MiG's Fabulous Fishbed. MiG - Red Star Fighters, 52–61. ISBN ''9781912205127''
 
* Bridgewater, S., & Gibbs, R. (Eds.). (2019). MiG's Fabulous Fishbed. MiG - Red Star Fighters, 52–61. ISBN ''9781912205127''
  
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{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
 
{{USSR jet aircraft}}
 
{{USSR jet aircraft}}

Revision as of 13:36, 16 March 2024

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
This page is about the Soviet jet fighter MiG-21F-13. For other versions, see MiG-21 (Family).
MiG-21F-13
mig-21_f13.png
GarageImage MiG-21F-13.jpg
MiG-21F-13
USSR flag.png USSR
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
8.7 9.3 9.7
Class:
Research:110 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:620 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

Only a few months before the introduction of the MiG-21F into Soviet service, the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis took place in 1958, where the AIM-9B Sidewinder missile employed by F-86 Sabres became the first instance of air-to-air missiles being used in combat. However, these early missiles had many flaws, and on September 28, 1958, one AIM-9B failed to detonate while striking a PLAAF MiG-17, becoming lodged in the rear fuselage and returning to base completely intact. This missile was quickly shipped back to the Soviet Union for analysis and backwards engineered into the K-13 missile system. A quick directive was issued to update existing (MiG-17 and MiG-19) and future aircraft projects (MiG-21) to use this new missile. An updated variant of the MiG-21F with one cannon removed to fit the required avionics for firing the K-13 missile would enter service shortly after as the MiG-21F-13.

The MiG-21F-13, introduced in Update 1.91 "Night Vision", is a complete departure in playstyle and doctrine from the aircraft that precede it in the tech tree. Unlike the MiG-15, 17, and 19 before it which rely on strong energy retention to win their dogfights at lower speeds due to high speed compression, the MiG-21F-13 is on the complete opposite of the spectrum, having abysmal energy retention and low speed manoeuvrability, and instead relying in its incredible AoA and instantaneous turning at higher speeds to best its opponents. The aircraft is best played conservatively, as its weak air-to-air missiles and singular, low velocity gun with a comically small ammo pool of 60 rounds does not allow for aggressive play. It is best to fly off away from the battlefield at first, letting the furballs form away from you before picking the most favourable engagements against distracted targets, utilizing hit-and-run tactics similar to the early F-104s of the same rank.

Pilots who can master the MiG-21F's less-forgiving flight characteristics and engagement doctrine can look forward to the MiG-21SMT, a major upgrade in weaponry and flight handling over the MiG-21F, while retaining the same basic playstyle. Also, players who truly enjoy the MiG-21 flight performance at this rank and are looking for a premium aircraft to aid in the research of the Soviet tech tree should consider the premium MiG-21S, a heavily upgraded MiG-21 at a slightly higher battle rating utilizing a stronger engine, more missiles, a radar, and a new cannon with a larger ammo pool.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Drogue parachute
Reduces braking distance when landing on any runway
Max speed
at 13 000 m2 240 km/h
Turn time33 s
Max altitude16 000 m
EngineTumansky R-11F-300
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight10 t

Due to the MiG-21F-13 being an interceptor fighter, its main purpose is to interdict enemy aircraft. For this purpose, a jet fighter should meet certain criteria such as being light-weight, fast, aerodynamic and cheap to build and maintain. The MiG-21F-13 fits all of these criteria to a tee. Sitting at a take-off weight of 9.5 tons and an afterburner thrust output from the R-11F-300 jet engine of 5,480 kgf, the MiG was a rocket compared to other contemporary fighters/interceptor aircraft. The closest comparable aircraft in-game are the Hunter F 1, Hunter F.6 and the Super Mystere B2. Pound for pound and thrust for thrust, the Hunter F 1 is the closest with a take-off weight of 9.5 tons and power output from a Rolls-Royce Avon Mk. 113 engine with 3,188 kgf, however, the final thrust output was no contest with the MiG-21F-13 able to fly 1,000 km/h faster than the Hunter at top speed.

Upper view of a MiG-21F-13.

Horizontal turning manoeuvrability in the MiG, for the most part, is non-existent. Due to the shape of the wings and the aerodynamics of the entire aircraft, it is built mostly for high-speed low-drag in a straight flight and that becomes apparent when it enters into a manoeuvre or a extended turn where it begins to bleed speed at a horrendous rate. With no adjustment to the throttle, a MiG-21F-13 can drop from 1,000 km/h to 600 - 700 km/h just by making a turn or manoeuvring from flying in a straight line. MiG pilots must take into account when they attempt evasive manoeuvres after a missile is fired at them as doing so they may avoid the missile, but they may also end up flying under 700 km/h which is a bad place to be and can be difficult to return from if there is no room to dive to build up speed. The best bet to use the MiG-21F-13 is up at higher altitudes where the jet flies faster and has room to dive if the speed needs to be built up after turning or manoeuvring.

While the MiG-21F-13 can be outfitted with 250 kg or 500 kg bombs, adding the extra weight impacts this fighter even more. With the bombs placed on under-wing pylons, it decreases the roll-rate of the aircraft having that weight away from the centre of the aircraft (or in comparison to a clean aircraft – without bombs). Bombs are an option for the aircraft, however, due to needing to maintain speeds above 700 km/h using the MiG as a bomber is less effective and can expose this aircraft to other fighters which prey on low and slow aircraft.

The strength of the aircraft is its speed in a straight line whether in a climb, level flight or a dive, however, when it turns at all, it haemorrhages its energy and when it gets below 700 km/h, it is difficult to get back up to speed without diving to make up that speed. When caught near the ground and going slow will be extremely frustrating for a MiG-21 pilot.

Some characteristics to remember for Simulator battles:

  • Abnormally strong up-righting torque (for a jet) can be troublesome when aiming
  • Negative pitch stability above 500 km/h
  • Deep-stalled flat-spinning MiG-21s cannot recover from spin
  • Rapid energy bleeding can allow you to go from Mach 1 to landing speeds in a single hard 90 degree turn with trimming controls, allowing for rapid base return and landings
  • Bubble canopy allows excellent peripheral vision; nothing hindering the line of sight
  • Does not spin easily in a positive G-load stall
  • Stable unstalled inverted spin with awkward recovery technique for joystick pilots
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 13,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 2,212 2,197 16000 34.6 35.1 98.1 90.8 750
Upgraded 2,277 2,240 31.8 33.0 143.7 120.0
The sleek and aerodynamic MiG-21F-13.

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X ✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1260 700 N/A 524 450 ~12 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 650 < 600 < 900 N/A
Clean Configuration Lift Performance
Zero-Thrust, 1G Stall speed
(km/h) 		Corner speed

(km/h)

210-244 757

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
Tumansky R-11F-300 1 5,212 kg 315 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 33m fuel
1,120 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 5,821 kg 6,408 kg 7,006 kg 7,242 kg 9,500 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 33m fuel MTOW
Stationary 3,484 kgf 5,231 kgf 0.90 0.82 0.75 0.72 0.55
Optimal 3,484 kgf
(0 km/h) 		5,324 kgf
(1,200 km/h) 		0.91 0.83 0.76 0.74 0.56

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural1 260 km/h
Gear700 km/h
Armour
  • 16 mm Steel – behind the pilot's seat
  • 25 mm Steel – pilot's headrest
  • 65 mm Bulletproof glass – forward canopy windscreen

Not much thought was put into protecting the aircraft as it was relatively cheap and easy to build and maintain. However, protections were put in place for the pilot which on the other hand was a valuable asset. Protective steel behind the seat and pilot's headrest along with the 65 mm bulletproof glass helped protect the pilot from defensive fire coming from bomber turrets or from smaller calibre guns found on many Western fighters of the time.

Due to its speed and limited weapon load-out, further protections for the aircraft's critical component were not necessary and thus left off the aircraft to allow for its light-weight and quick intercept capability.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 236 → 4 692 Sl icon.png
RB9 434 → 13 679 Sl icon.png
SB9 463 → 13 721 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications196 000 Rp icon.png
303 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training175 000 Sl icon.png
Experts620 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 600 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 010 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
130 / 380 / 600 % Sl icon.png
226 / 226 / 226 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
600 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
480 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
480 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
480 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
NR_30_belt_pack
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods napalm fire bomb.png
ZB-360
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
S-5K
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-250
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
S-24
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
NR_30_new_gun
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
600 Ge icon.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-3S
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
600 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
480 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-500
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
480 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Ballistic Computer
CCIP (Guns) CCIP (Rockets) CCIP (Bombs) CCRP (Bombs)
Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon RedXCross.png Icon RedXCross.png

Offensive armament

Main article: NR-30 (30 mm)

The MiG-21F-13 is armed with:

  • 1 x 30 mm NR-30 cannon, nose-mounted (60 rpg)

The MiG-21F-13 has been outfitted with a single 30 mm Nudelman-Rikhter NR-30 cannon. This gun is a large enough calibre to do some serious damage, however, this cannon only houses 60 rounds of ammunition. While the small ammunition pool appears to be a negative point to the aircraft, minimizing weight is necessary to ensure this aircraft can intercept inbound enemy aircraft. Trigger control is a fundamental skill when attacking aircraft, similarly to many previous Soviet aircraft on the previous early ranks.

Suspended armament

The MiG-21F-13 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3
Hardpoints MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany).png
250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs 1 1
500 kg FAB-500M-54 bombs 1 1
ZB-360 incendiary bombs 1 1
S-5K rockets 16 16
S-24 rockets 1 1
R-3S missiles 1 1
490 l drop tanks 1
Default weapon presets
  • 1 x 490 l drop tank
  • 2 x R-3S missiles
  • 32 x S-5K rockets
  • 2 x S-24 rockets
  • 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (500 kg total)
  • 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-54 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 2 x ZB-360 incendiary bombs

Air-to-air combat armament

In conjunction with its 30 mm NR-30 autocannon, it can also be outfitted with two additional air-to-air combat options. First is the R-3S air-to-air missiles of which only two are allocated at a time. When on the tail of an enemy aircraft there are two tones which will be emitted when attempting a missile lock, the first tone is the system searching for a target, once the target is locked onto, the tone will noticeably change. Once changed to the second tone, the missile can be fired. An enemy fighter which is paying attention to any notifications for an inbound missile does have a chance to avoid the missile, however, the longer they wait to initiate, the harder it will be for them to avoid being hit by the missile.

Secondary air-to-air armament comes in the package of 32 S-5K unguided rockets. Though less than accurate when fired off singly, salvos of these rockets will increase the chance that at least one or two rockets may hit the intended target. This ordnance is difficult to use against faster fighters, however, it may be ideal to utilise against slower bombers which may have a more difficult time out flying or outmanoeuvring these rockets.

Ground attack armament

The MiG-21F-13 can carry ordnance which is more specifically used for ground attack than aerial attack. Two options for rockets are available, the 32 x S-5K rockets already mentioned in the air-to-air combat section and the 2 x S-24 240 mm unguided rockets. The S-5K rockets can be used to great effect on anti-aircraft artillery, lightly armoured vehicles and aircraft landing, taking-off or parked on runways waiting for repairs or reloading. Since the S-5K is unguided and therefore not highly accurate, especially being launched from the MiG-21F-13 and low altitudes, it is best to launch large salvos at the intended targets to increase the chances a hit is made. The S-24 rocket is just over two metres long and therefore only two can be outfitted on the aircraft. This rocket has its similarities to the U.S. unguided rocket the Tiny Tim. These larger rockets pack a punch and can be used for enemies on the ground clustered together, harder targets such as medium and heavy tanks, reinforced pillboxes and can even whittle away at the enemy bases.

A final ground attack option is to outfit bombs to the aircraft in either total weight of 500 kg or 1,000 kg. Either 250 kg or 500 kg bombs can be mounted to underwing pylons to be used on ground targets, however, while these are attached to the aircraft, its overall speed and manoeuvrability will suffer. Bombing with the MiG-21F-13 can be a bit of a challenge without a bombsight or trying to hit a target while in a dive. Attempting a horizontal attack reduces the overall speed of the aircraft and makes it an easier target for enemy fighters waiting to pounce.

Usage in battles

The MiG-21F-13 was designed to be a fighter-interceptor and thus all of its design features shape it into virtually a missile with a cockpit. This aircraft wasn't designed to carry the load the F-4C, G.91 YS or the Super Mystere B2 could, but it was built for speed and to bring along the minimal amount of armament to do its job.

Air defence role

As a fighter-interceptor, the MiG-21F-13 needed to get from Point A (the airbase) to Point B (the inbound enemy aircraft) in the shortest amount of time possible, shoot it and return to base to get ready for the next one. This jet can remain fast if it is flying in a straight line, however do not try to sustain dogfights in it. As it still has a high AoA, meaning it bleeds a good amount of speed in hard turns. The MiG-21F-13 can be outfitted with air-to-air ordnance to support this fighting tactic or it can also load up on ground-attack ordnance which can inflict some damage. Though payload is available, this is not a strong suit for this aircraft.

The MiG-21F-13 in an aggressive power-climb ready to intercept.

The best use of this aircraft is to utilise its excellent speed and rate of climb and gain altitude and begin to level off when you are either at bomber altitude or just above any enemy fighters flying around. It is here you can use the great Boom & Zoom qualities of the aircraft and select a target and begin to dive on it. It is during this phase when you can attempt to get a lock with the R-3S air-to-air missiles and launch it or you can strafe any unwary targets with the 30 mm NR-30 autocannon. Extremely short bursts are a must in order to conserve ammunition (only 60 rounds total), but this powerful gun only needs one or two good shots to remove a wing, take out a pilot or disable an engine.

Once shots have been taken, regardless if they hit or missed, engage the afterburner and return to higher altitudes and set up for another Boom & Zoom run. Boom & Run techniques also work in that you can use the phenomenal speed of the MiG-21F-13 to outrun just about any aircraft on the map (however beware of the F-4C which can keep pace if not outrun the MiG-21F-13).

The R-3S missiles can be a challenge to get used to, so newer pilots may elect to outfit the S-5K rockets and use them to go after bombers or large fighters. With only 60 rounds of 30 mm cannon ammunition, trigger control is a must or else you will be waiting often for a reload timer to count down or will be frequently returning to base to reload.

Ground attack role

Options are available to use this aircraft in the role of ground-attack, however, this may be an extreme challenge, especially to any novice fighter jet pilots. While the 30 mm autocannon is standard in all of the ordnance load-outs, when adding a secondary suspended armament, you are limited to only one type. In this case, you will need to choose from 32 light-weight S-5K rockets, two S-24 rockets, two 250 kg bombs or two 500 kg bombs. The added weight and loss of aerodynamics when adding any of this ordnance can be difficult to overcome, especially since this aircraft is built for speed over manoeuvrability. Therefore, these options should be reserved for special situations in the late part of a match, as the attacker/bomber function was never designed as a multi-role function as it was with the F-4C.

When attacking ground targets, it is best to place the MiG-21F-13 into a relatively shallow dive, it is important to remember to properly line up for the target ahead of time because with the external ordnance fine-tune manoeuvring can be difficult especially when corrections need to be made at the last minute. Lack of a bombsight makes bombing smaller targets a bit more difficult to hit. When flying low to take on ground targets, make sure you leave yourself an out when the situation turns bad. The best practice here is to ensure you keep your speed up, slow enough to hit the target, but fast enough to get away when the situation turns.

Radars

The MiG-21F-13 is equipped with a SRD-5 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft. It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.

SRD-5 - Rangefinding radar
Maximum
Tracking
Range 		Minimum
Tracking
Range 		Azimuth Tracking
Angle 		Elevation Tracking
Angle
3,000 m 300 m ±9° ±9°

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great top speed and acceleration once spaded
  • Has access to 2 x R-3S air-to-air missiles or 2 x S-24 rockets, which can work as air-to-air weapon
  • Hard-hitting and accurate 30 mm cannon, quick bursts make 60 rounds last long and are enough for kills
  • Although limited, ordnance options are available when needed
  • Very good instant turn at all speeds; does not spin easily in a positive G-load stall; stable in simulator
  • Can sustain 11G - 12G even at 1,200 km/h IAS (can also pull 13G for a second)

Cons:

  • Sole gun with 60 rounds; difficult for newcomers, a minuscule 3.6 seconds total firing time (compared to 24 seconds of the 3 x gunpods of the F-4 Phantom)
  • No countermeasures of any sort; manoeuvring alone must be used to counter AAM
  • Quirky rudder characteristics on mouse aim
  • AAM missiles are unreliable and slow
  • Single type suspended armament, no multi-role options such as missiles + bombs or rockets + bombs
  • Flight performance will be limited until flight modifications have been researched

History

This fighter was the Ye-66a ("Ye" stands for "Yedinitsa" or single-unit), later changed to MiG-21 F-13 or as dubbed by NATO, the Fishbed-C. The F-13 designation identifies as an updated (Forsirovannyy) version which can equip the K-13 missile system capable of using the R-3S air-to-air missiles.

The MiG-21 series of planes would become the most widely-used family of fighter jets in the world, with over 4,000 produced, including license-built copies in China, India and Czechoslovakia. The roots of this highly successful combat aircraft started in the mid-1950s, with the Soviet desire to create a Mach-2 capable light fighter. The first MiG-21F prototypes were presented at the Tushino air show in June 1956, and deliveries started in 1958. The model, "Fishbed C" in NATO parlance, was widely exported. In the Soviet Union, it was replaced by the MiG-21PF model after 1961.

The MiG-21F-13 was built to be a point defence interceptor not an air-defence fighter slated for combat missions, basically a short-range day fighter. Essentially it was a missile which houses a pilot, one 30 mm cannon and two R-3S air-to-air missiles. The sleek airframe was made with aluminium alloys, steel, magnesium and fibreglass. The air-intake cone automatically adjusts during the flight to help the aircraft remain aerodynamic. The fighter sported a delta wing with a 57° leading edge and even the all-moving tailplane utilizes the swept feature. Everything about this jet focus on speed which lends it reaching out to the Mach 2 range.

Devblog

Development of the MiG-21 dates back to the early 1950s, when the Mikoyan design bureau was conducting development work on a design study for a new swept-wing jet aircraft. Further work on the project led to the creation of a separate, delta wing prototype, designated "Ye-4". With test flights showing promising results, but also much room for improvement, work on the Ye-4 resumed. Further tweaks and modifications to the design eventually lead to the Ye-5 prototype, which conducted its maiden flight in January 1956.

During testing, the Ye-5 received its new designation "MiG-21" and was officially ordered into production. However, production of this initial batch of MiG-21s was rather short, with only a handful of machines being built. In the meantime, an improved version of the aircraft - the Ye-6 - was being worked on. By May 1958, testing of the Ye-6 was deemed to be completed. Shortly afterwards, in July, the Ye-6 was ordered into mass production under the designation MiG-21F and was to replace the initial MiG-21 as the standard production model. The aircraft weaponry consists of two 30 mm automatic cannons. The next step was to equip the aircraft with guided "air-to-air" missiles but in to do this one of the cannons had to be removed.

From there on, the MiG-21 would go on to be produced in enormous numbers and in various different variants, both for the needs of the Soviet Union, as well as for export. Around 60 countries have or still use the MiG-21 in various capacities and modifications today.

Well over 11,000 MiG-21s have been produced, including licence-built versions (more than 2,400 models were built in China under the J-7 designation), since the start of production in 1959, with the legendary "Fishbed" becoming the most mass produced combat aircraft since the Korean War and taking part in more armed conflicts than a single devblog would ever be able to cover. But as an example we can mention its participation in the Vietnam War where the MiG-21 was able to push back against the latest U.S. aircraft (which were in majority).

Media

Skins
Images
  • Mig 21 wtwallpaper 001.jpg
  • Mig 21 wtwallpaper 002.jpg
  • Mig 21 wtwallpaper 004.jpg
  • Mig 21 wtwallpaper 005.jpg
  • Mig 21 wtwallpaper 006.jpg
Videos
Sim - MiG-21 - First Impressions - Spicysauced
The Shooting Range #165 - Metal Beasts section at 00:35 discusses the MiG-21.
They Made MiG-21 Mode Into A Real Thing! - Spit_flyer

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau (Микоя́н и Гуре́вич Опытное конструкторское бюро)
Fighters  MiG-3-15 · MiG-3-15 (BK) · MiG-3-34
  I-225
Jet fighters  MiG-9 · MiG-9 (l)
  MiG-15 · MiG-15bis · MiG-15bis ISh
  MiG-17
  MiG-19PT
  MiG-21F-13 · MiG-21PFM · MiG-21S (R-13-300) · MiG-21SMT · MiG-21bis
  MiG-23M · MiG-23ML · MiG-23MLD
  MiG-27M · MiG-27K
  MiG-29 · MiG-29SMT
Export/Licensed  ␗MiG-9 · ␗MiG-9 (l)
  ◊MiG-15bis · ◔MiG-15bis · J-2*
  MiG-17AS · ◔MiG-17PF · J-4* · Shenyang F-5*
  ◊MiG-19S · J-6A*
  ◄MiG-21 SPS-K · ◊MiG-21MF · ◔MiG-21MF · ▄MiG-21bis · ◔MiG-21bis-SAU · ◊MiG-21bis-SAU · ◊MiG-21 "Lazur-M" · ▄MiG-21 Bison · J-7II**
  ◊MiG-23BN · ◊MiG-23MF · ◔MiG-23MF · ◊MiG-23MLA
  ◔MiG-29 · ◊MiG-29 · ◄MiG-29G
  *Licensed and domesticated with Chinese designations.
  **Unlicensed, reverse-engineered and domesticated with Chinese designations.
See Also  Shenyang · Chengdu

USSR jet aircraft
Bereznyak-Isayev  BI
Yakovlev  Yak-15 · Yak-15P · Yak-17 · Yak-23 · Yak-28B · Yak-30D · Yak-38 · Yak-38M · Yak-141
Mikoyan-Gurevich  MiG-9 · MiG-9 (l) · MiG-15 · MiG-15bis · MiG-15bis ISh · MiG-17 · MiG-17AS · MiG-19PT
  MiG-21F-13 · MiG-21PFM · MiG-21S (R-13-300) · MiG-21SMT · MiG-21bis
  MiG-23M · MiG-23ML · MiG-23MLD · MiG-27M · MiG-27K
  MiG-29 · MiG-29SMT
Lavochkin  La-174 · La-15 · La-200
Sukhoi  Su-9 · Su-11
  Su-7B · Su-7BKL · Su-7BMK · Su-17M2 · Su-17M4 · Su-22M3
  Su-24M
  Su-25 · Su-25BM · Su-25K · Su-25T · Su-25SM3 · Su-39
  Su-27 · Su-27SM
  Su-34
Ilyushin  IL-28 · IL-28Sh
Tupolev  Tu-14T

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