Difference between revisions of "MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany)"

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|code=mig-21_sps_k
 
|code=mig-21_sps_k
 
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
−
|store=10592
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} German jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced as a premium pack in [[Update "Ground Breaking"]].
+
During the 1960s and '70s, East Germany had modified their MiG-21PFs into a new standard, which they indigenously called the MiG-21PFM (not to be confused with the Soviet designated [[MiG-21PFM]], a heavily upgraded MiG-21PF using the second-generation MiG-21 body style). However, a problem quickly arose when the East German air force acquired the Soviet designated PFMs, as these planes were vastly different than the upgraded PFs sharing the same name. To avoid further confusion, all Soviet designated MiG-21PFMs in German service would be re-designated into the MiG-21SPS. However, yet again, a naming convention conundrum arose when the later variant of the Soviet MiG-21PFM (''Izdelyie 94A'') entered service, with the biggest change being the ability to carry a [[GSh-23L (23 mm)|GSh-23]] gunpod on the underbelly. To account for the new variant again, the Germans re-designated this variant into the MiG-21SPS-K, with the K standing for ''Kanone'' to denote its ability to take a cannon pod.
 +
 
 +
Introduced as a premium pack in [[Update "Ground Breaking"]], the MiG-21SPS-K takes on an entirely new playstyle for the [[MiG-21 (Family)|Fishbed family]], completely departing from the high-speed, high AoA hit and run tactics of previous aircraft due to its loadouts. Due to not having a real built-in gun, this aircraft is very reliant on its IR-guided [[R-60]] and [[R-13M1]] and radar-guided [[R-3R]] air-to-air missile selection. However, due to being a MiG-21PFM airframe, it is limited to two hardpoints only, meaning the player can only take a maximum of four missiles. The player can also choose between either a GSh-23 gunpod, or a SPS-141 countermeasures pod on the center pylon. Overall, the SPS-K is a unique premium as it differs greatly from the usual MiG-21's gameplay loop, having to rely a lot more on its ordnance and tools than its flight performance (which as with other MiG-21s, is very good as well).
 +
 
 +
The MiG-21 SPS-K was removed from the Gaijin store at the end of the [[wt:en/news/8225-shop-may-sale-in-the-gaijin-store-en|2023 May Sale]]. It was made available briefly to purchase with Golden Eagles {{GE}} during the [[wt:en/news/8324-special-the-mig-21-sps-k-returns-to-celebrate-the-mig-21-s-first-flight-en|2023 "MiG-21's First Flight" celebration]].
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 111: Line 114:
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
The aircraft gets 60 mm bulletproof glass in front of the pilot and 10 mm of steel behind the pilot. At top-tier, this will not save you from much damage. The plane gets self-sealing fuel tanks in the wings and over the engine.
+
The aircraft gets 60 mm bulletproof glass in front of the pilot and 10 mm of steel behind the pilot, making it more survivable in head-on attacks and making it be able to tank low caliber machine gun fire from enemy tanks. But even with the bulletproof glass, the pilot isn't immune to enemy fire, so you should still try to dodge any bullets aiming for you. The plane also gets self-sealing fuel tanks in the wings and over the engine.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
Line 124: Line 127:
 
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
 
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Cross}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}}
+
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}}
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 130: Line 133:
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
{{main|OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|FAB-500M-54 (500 kg)|S-5K|S-24|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}
 
−
{{main|R-3R|R-3S|R-13M1|R-60}}
 
  
−
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance presets:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon (250 rpg)
 
−
* 4 x R-3S missiles
 
−
* 4 x R-3R missiles
 
−
* 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles
 
−
* 64 x countermeasures + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
 
−
* 64 x countermeasures + 2 x R-60 missiles
 
−
* 64 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)
 
−
 
−
==== Custom loadout options ====
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! !! width="15%" | 1 !! width="15%" | 2 !! width="15%" | 3
 
! !! width="15%" | 1 !! width="15%" | 2 !! width="15%" | 3
−
| rowspan="11" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
+
| rowspan="12" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg)
+
! [[GSh-23L (23 mm)|23 mm GSh-23L]] cannons (250 rpg)
 
| || 1 ||
 
| || 1 ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs
+
! [[OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250sv]] bombs
 
| 1 || || 1
 
| 1 || || 1
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 500 kg FAB-500M-54 bombs
+
! [[FAB-500M-54 (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500M-54]] bombs
 
| 1 || || 1
 
| 1 || || 1
 
|-
 
|-
−
! S-5K rockets
+
! [[S-5K]] rockets
 
| 16, 32 || || 16, 32
 
| 16, 32 || || 16, 32
 
|-
 
|-
−
! S-24 rockets
+
! [[S-24]] rockets
 
| 1 || || 1
 
| 1 || || 1
 
|-
 
|-
−
! R-3R missiles
+
! [[R-3R]] missiles
−
| 1, 2 || || 1, 2
+
| 1*, 2 || || 1*, 2
 
|-
 
|-
−
! R-3S missiles
+
! [[R-3S]] missiles
−
| 1, 2 || || 1, 2
+
| 1*, 2 || || 1*, 2
 
|-
 
|-
−
! R-13M1 missiles
+
! [[R-13M1]] missiles
 
| 1 || || 1
 
| 1 || || 1
 
|-
 
|-
−
! R-60 missiles
+
! [[R-60]] missiles
 
| 1 || || 1
 
| 1 || || 1
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Countermeasures
 
! Countermeasures
 
| || 64 ||
 
| || 64 ||
 +
|-
 +
! 490 l drop tanks
 +
| || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="5" | * Single R-3R missiles can only be equipped in conjunction with a single R-3S missile on the same hardpoint
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 +
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon (250 rpg)
 +
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 1 x 490 l drop tank
 +
* 4 x R-3S missiles
 +
* 4 x R-3R missiles
 +
* 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles
 +
* 64 x countermeasures + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
 +
* 64 x countermeasures + 2 x R-60 missiles
 +
* 64 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)
 +
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 2 x R-60 missiles
 +
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 2 x R-3S missiles + 2 x R-3R missiles
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
''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).''
+
=== Air Realistic Battles ===
 +
The MiG-21 SPS-K is a decent fighter jet for its Battle Rating (BR). With its wide range of available weaponry, it can be used as a fighter and as an attack aircraft destroying enemy bases or ground vehicles.
 +
 
 +
When you want to play as a fighter (which is its intended role), you can either take the R-3R, R-3S, R-13M1 or R-60 or any mix of these missiles with you. Since the SPS-K doesn’t have an onboard gun, you will also have to decide between taking the gun or the countermeasures.
 +
 
 +
If you take the gun, you will be able to engage enemy planes and ground targets without the need of missiles. However, this way you will lack countermeasures, making it very hard to evade missiles. With the lack of flares, be aware of enemies like the [[A-10A]] and [[Su-25K]] due to them carrying the all-aspect [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9L]] and [[R-60MK]] missiles which are lethal to you.
 +
 
 +
Using the R-3R and/or R-3S is a great way to destroy enemy planes, while it is recommended to rather use the R-3Rs since many enemies which you will face are not capable of taking chaff with them. The R-3R can also be used in Head-ons because of your radar while the R-3S can only be used rear-aspect (when being behind the enemy). However both of these missiles only have a maximum G-overload of 10G, making them easy to outmaneuver and thus evade - even without countermeasures.
 +
 
 +
Another option for making the MiG a lethal fighter are the R-13M1 missiles. These have a higher G-overload of 20G making them very hard to be dodged by enemies. They also feature a higher launch-range than the R-3R/S and are faster with the top speed being Mach 2.4. 
 +
 
 +
The last option for you to take, is the R-60 missile. While being slower than the R-13M1, it has an higher G-overload of 30G, making this missile practically unable to be dodged. The R-60 is a rear-aspect missile, but this shouldn’t stop you from considering taking it with you. When you take the 2x R-60s, try to find enemies that are flying to the bases and quickly follow them. Most of the planes will have flares but some, like the often-seen [[Su-7BMK]], don’t have countermeasures. So it is best to search for planes who lack those.
 +
 
 +
When you consider destroying bases or ground targets, it is best to equip the S-5K unguided rockets and the gun. With the lack of missiles, you won’t be able to pose a big threat to enemy planes, however, you can still make use of your gun if you are being attacked. If you are skilled (and lucky) enough, you can also use the rockets against enemy planes when you run out of ammo.
 +
 
 +
=== Ground Realistic Battles ===
 +
The MiG-21 can also be used as a CAS vehicle hovering the skies of the battlefield. If you want to use the MiG in GRB, it is best to equip the S-5K rockets and the gun. While flying to the battlefield, be aware of enemy planes intercepting you or enemy SPAAs searching for their next target. Due to the lack of countermeasures, you should instantly try to dive down or fly behind rocks/hills if available, when you see a missile aiming for you.
 +
 
 +
If you make it to the battlefield alive, you can use your gun to destroy light tanks and IFVs and your rockets to hit MBTs. Since the rockets aren’t that powerful tho, you should try to dive down directly onto the target you want to hit, while having your air brakes extended.
 +
 
 +
Once you have unleashed your power, make your way back to the airfield, rearm and repeat.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 192: Line 224:
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Has access to R-3R, R-3S, R-13M1, and R-60 anti-air missiles
+
* Has access to R-3R, R-3S, R-13M1, and R-60 air-to-air missiles
−
* Decent radar to slave R-60s
+
* Decent radar to slave R-60s for easier target locking
−
* In a downtier, it can dominate hard with its gun and flight characteristics
+
* In a downtier, it can dominate with its gun and flight characteristics
−
* Fast plane
+
* Quick plane with good speed for its BR
 
* Decent manoeuvrability at high speed
 
* Decent manoeuvrability at high speed
−
* Ballistic computer for rockets
+
* Ballistic computer for rockets, making it good for quick attack runs on ground targets
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Bad energy retention
+
* Bad energy retention in turns
−
* Poor acceleration
+
* Poor acceleration making to plane hard to fly in turnfights
 
* Has to give up the gun for flare/chaff pod
 
* Has to give up the gun for flare/chaff pod
−
* Suffers in uptiers
 
 
* RWR is only working in the rear, not all around
 
* RWR is only working in the rear, not all around
 +
* Gun runs out of ammo quickly due to high rate of fire and low ammunition storage (250 ammo)
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 215: Line 247:
  
 
;Skins
 
;Skins
 +
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig-21_sps_k Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig-21_sps_k Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  

Revision as of 19:32, 23 September 2024

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the German jet fighter MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany). For other versions, see MiG-21 (Family).
◄MiG-21 SPS-K
mig-21_sps_k.png
GarageImage MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany).jpg
StoreImage MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany).jpg
◄MiG-21 SPS-K
Germany flag.png Germany
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.3 9.7 10.0
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game

Description

During the 1960s and '70s, East Germany had modified their MiG-21PFs into a new standard, which they indigenously called the MiG-21PFM (not to be confused with the Soviet designated MiG-21PFM, a heavily upgraded MiG-21PF using the second-generation MiG-21 body style). However, a problem quickly arose when the East German air force acquired the Soviet designated PFMs, as these planes were vastly different than the upgraded PFs sharing the same name. To avoid further confusion, all Soviet designated MiG-21PFMs in German service would be re-designated into the MiG-21SPS. However, yet again, a naming convention conundrum arose when the later variant of the Soviet MiG-21PFM (Izdelyie 94A) entered service, with the biggest change being the ability to carry a GSh-23 gunpod on the underbelly. To account for the new variant again, the Germans re-designated this variant into the MiG-21SPS-K, with the K standing for Kanone to denote its ability to take a cannon pod.

Introduced as a premium pack in Update "Ground Breaking", the MiG-21SPS-K takes on an entirely new playstyle for the Fishbed family, completely departing from the high-speed, high AoA hit and run tactics of previous aircraft due to its loadouts. Due to not having a real built-in gun, this aircraft is very reliant on its IR-guided R-60 and R-13M1 and radar-guided R-3R air-to-air missile selection. However, due to being a MiG-21PFM airframe, it is limited to two hardpoints only, meaning the player can only take a maximum of four missiles. The player can also choose between either a GSh-23 gunpod, or a SPS-141 countermeasures pod on the center pylon. Overall, the SPS-K is a unique premium as it differs greatly from the usual MiG-21's gameplay loop, having to rely a lot more on its ordnance and tools than its flight performance (which as with other MiG-21s, is very good as well).

The MiG-21 SPS-K was removed from the Gaijin store at the end of the 2023 May Sale. It was made available briefly to purchase with Golden Eagles Ge icon.png during the 2023 "MiG-21's First Flight" celebration.

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 time36 s
Max altitude16 000 m
EngineTumansky R-11F2S-300
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight10 t
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 2,210 2,195 16000 37.7 38.3 124.6 117.8 750
Upgraded 2,280 2,240 34.5 36.0 167.0 145.0

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 + -
1365 700 N/A 500 450 ~11 ~5
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 650 < 600 < 900 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
Tumansky R-11F2S-300 1 5,692 kg 342 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 35m fuel
1,120 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 6,340 kg 6,906 kg 7,513 kg 7,852 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 35m fuel MTOW
Stationary 3,536 kgf 5,304 kgf 0.84 0.77 0.71 0.68 0.56
Optimal 3,536 kgf
(0 km/h) 		5,398 kgf
(1,200 km/h) 		0.85 0.78 0.72 0.69 0.57

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural1 365 km/h
Gear700 km/h

The aircraft gets 60 mm bulletproof glass in front of the pilot and 10 mm of steel behind the pilot, making it more survivable in head-on attacks and making it be able to tank low caliber machine gun fire from enemy tanks. But even with the bulletproof glass, the pilot isn't immune to enemy fire, so you should still try to dodge any bullets aiming for you. The plane also gets self-sealing fuel tanks in the wings and over the engine.

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB2 024 Sl icon.png
RB7 515 Sl icon.png
SB6 938 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts1 160 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 800 Ge icon.png
Research Aces2 150 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 130 / 380 / 600 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 232 / 232 / 232 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods ammo.png
ns23_belt_pack
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Mods pilon block rocket.png
UB-32
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-3S
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-250
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods air to air missile.png
R-3R
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
ns23_new_gun
Mods pilon rocket.png
S-24
Mods air to air missile.png
R-13M
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Mods pilon bomb.png
FAB-500
Mods air to air missile.png
R-60

Armaments

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

Suspended armament

The MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany) can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3
Hardpoints MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany).png
23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg) 1
250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs 1 1
500 kg FAB-500M-54 bombs 1 1
S-5K rockets 16, 32 16, 32
S-24 rockets 1 1
R-3R missiles 1*, 2 1*, 2
R-3S missiles 1*, 2 1*, 2
R-13M1 missiles 1 1
R-60 missiles 1 1
Countermeasures 64
490 l drop tanks 1
* Single R-3R missiles can only be equipped in conjunction with a single R-3S missile on the same hardpoint
Default weapon presets
  • 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon (250 rpg)
  • 2 x R-60 missiles + 1 x 490 l drop tank
  • 4 x R-3S missiles
  • 4 x R-3R missiles
  • 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles
  • 64 x countermeasures + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
  • 64 x countermeasures + 2 x R-60 missiles
  • 64 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)
  • 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 2 x R-60 missiles
  • 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 2 x R-3S missiles + 2 x R-3R missiles

Usage in battles

Air Realistic Battles

The MiG-21 SPS-K is a decent fighter jet for its Battle Rating (BR). With its wide range of available weaponry, it can be used as a fighter and as an attack aircraft destroying enemy bases or ground vehicles.

When you want to play as a fighter (which is its intended role), you can either take the R-3R, R-3S, R-13M1 or R-60 or any mix of these missiles with you. Since the SPS-K doesn’t have an onboard gun, you will also have to decide between taking the gun or the countermeasures.

If you take the gun, you will be able to engage enemy planes and ground targets without the need of missiles. However, this way you will lack countermeasures, making it very hard to evade missiles. With the lack of flares, be aware of enemies like the A-10A and Su-25K due to them carrying the all-aspect AIM-9L and R-60MK missiles which are lethal to you.

Using the R-3R and/or R-3S is a great way to destroy enemy planes, while it is recommended to rather use the R-3Rs since many enemies which you will face are not capable of taking chaff with them. The R-3R can also be used in Head-ons because of your radar while the R-3S can only be used rear-aspect (when being behind the enemy). However both of these missiles only have a maximum G-overload of 10G, making them easy to outmaneuver and thus evade - even without countermeasures.

Another option for making the MiG a lethal fighter are the R-13M1 missiles. These have a higher G-overload of 20G making them very hard to be dodged by enemies. They also feature a higher launch-range than the R-3R/S and are faster with the top speed being Mach 2.4. 

The last option for you to take, is the R-60 missile. While being slower than the R-13M1, it has an higher G-overload of 30G, making this missile practically unable to be dodged. The R-60 is a rear-aspect missile, but this shouldn’t stop you from considering taking it with you. When you take the 2x R-60s, try to find enemies that are flying to the bases and quickly follow them. Most of the planes will have flares but some, like the often-seen Su-7BMK, don’t have countermeasures. So it is best to search for planes who lack those.

When you consider destroying bases or ground targets, it is best to equip the S-5K unguided rockets and the gun. With the lack of missiles, you won’t be able to pose a big threat to enemy planes, however, you can still make use of your gun if you are being attacked. If you are skilled (and lucky) enough, you can also use the rockets against enemy planes when you run out of ammo.

Ground Realistic Battles

The MiG-21 can also be used as a CAS vehicle hovering the skies of the battlefield. If you want to use the MiG in GRB, it is best to equip the S-5K rockets and the gun. While flying to the battlefield, be aware of enemy planes intercepting you or enemy SPAAs searching for their next target. Due to the lack of countermeasures, you should instantly try to dive down or fly behind rocks/hills if available, when you see a missile aiming for you.

If you make it to the battlefield alive, you can use your gun to destroy light tanks and IFVs and your rockets to hit MBTs. Since the rockets aren’t that powerful tho, you should try to dive down directly onto the target you want to hit, while having your air brakes extended.

Once you have unleashed your power, make your way back to the airfield, rearm and repeat.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Has access to R-3R, R-3S, R-13M1, and R-60 air-to-air missiles
  • Decent radar to slave R-60s for easier target locking
  • In a downtier, it can dominate with its gun and flight characteristics
  • Quick plane with good speed for its BR
  • Decent manoeuvrability at high speed
  • Ballistic computer for rockets, making it good for quick attack runs on ground targets

Cons:

  • Bad energy retention in turns
  • Poor acceleration making to plane hard to fly in turnfights
  • Has to give up the gun for flare/chaff pod
  • RWR is only working in the rear, not all around
  • Gun runs out of ammo quickly due to high rate of fire and low ammunition storage (250 ammo)

History

The MiG-21 SPS (also MiG-21 PFS) was a subvariant of MiG-21 PF. The acronym SPS comes from "сдув пограничного слоя" ("sduv pogranichnogo sloya") which means "blown flaps". For this, the engine was modified and received a new name R-11F2S-300, this engine redirected some air from the compressor to the flaps. The military wanted it to be able to take off from unpaved airfields, and these modifications shortened the takeoff run to 480 m on average and reduced the landing speed to 240 km/h. Two SPRD-99 (СПРД-99) boosters could be installed to shorten the takeoff run even more. It was mass-produced from 1961 to 1965.

Media

Skins
Videos
2 Premiums, One Playstyle: MiG-21 SPS-K & MiG-21S - Spit_flyer
The Little Plane That Couldn't - MiG-21-SPS-K - DEFYN
Should You Buy The MiG-21 SPS-K? - Premium Review - Sako Sniper

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

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • other literature.


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

Germany jet aircraft
Germany flag.png  Luftwaffe
He 162  He 162 A-1 · He 162 A-2
Me 163  Me 163 B · Me 163 B-0
Ho 229  Ho 229 V3
Ar 234  Ar 234 B-2 · Ar 234 C-3
Me 262  Me 262 A-1a · Me 262 A-1a/Jabo · Me 262 A-1a/U1 · Me 262 A-1/U4 · Me 262 A-2a
  Me 262 C-1a · Me 262 C-2b
GDR flag.png  LSK
Fighters  ◊MiG-15bis · ◊Lim-5P · ◊MiG-19S
  ◊MiG-21MF · ◊MiG-21bis-SAU · ◊MiG-21 "Lazur-M"
  ◊MiG-29
Attackers  ◊MiG-23BN · ◊MiG-23MF · ◊MiG-23MLA
  ◊Su-22UM3K · ◊Su-22M4
  ◊IL-28
FRG flag.png  Luftwaffe
F-84  ◄F-84F
F-86  ◄CL-13A Mk 5 · ◄CL-13B Mk.6 · ◄F-86K
F-104  ◄F-104G
F-4  ◄F-4F Early · ◄F-4F · ◄F-4F KWS LV
G.91  ◄G.91 R/3 · ◄G.91 R/4
Tornado  ◄Tornado IDS WTD61 · ◄Tornado IDS MFG · ◄Tornado IDS ASSTA1
Other  Alpha Jet A · ◄Sea Hawk Mk.100
Ex-LSK  ◄MiG-21 SPS-K · ◄MiG-29G · ◄Su-22M4 WTD61
Switzerland flag.png  Swiss Air Force
  ◌Hunter F.58 · FFA P-16

Germany premium aircraft
Fighters  He 51 B-2/H · BV 155 B-1
He 112  He 112 B-1/U2 · He 112 B-2/U2
Bf 109  Flegel's Bf 109 A · Bf 109 E-7/U2 · Bf 109 G-2
Fw 190  Fw 190 A-5/U14 · Fw 190 C · Fw 190 D-13
Captured  ▀Marcolin's C.R.42 CN · ▀Hawk H-75A-2 · ▀Yak-1B · ▀La-5FN · ▀P-47D-16-RE · ▀P-47D · ▀Tempest Mk V
Twin-engine fighters  Bf 109 Z-1 · Ju 388 J · Ta 154 A-1
Jet fighters  ◄Sea Hawk Mk.100 · ◄G.91 R/4 · FFA P-16 · ◄MiG-21 SPS-K · ◊MiG-21 "Lazur-M"
Strike aircraft  Hs 129 B-2 (Romania) · ▀IL-2 (1942) · Bf 110 C-6 · Do 335 B-2 · He 219 A-7 · ◄Tornado IDS WTD61 · ◄Su-22M4 WTD61
Bombers  Ar 196 A-3 · BV 238 · Fw 189 A-1 · He 177 A-3 · Ju 87 R-2 Libya · Ju 288 C · ▀Wellington Mk Ic

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