Difference between revisions of "MiG-21MF (Germany)"

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{{About
+
{{Specs-Card|code=mig-21_mf}}
−
| about = German jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
−
| usage = other versions
 
−
| link = MiG-21 (Family)
 
−
}}
 
−
{{Specs-Card
 
−
|code=mig-21_mf
 
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|MiG-21MF WebsiteImage 1.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.'' -->
−
During the late '60s and early '70s, East Germany would start receiving second and third generation MiG-21 airframes to replace their aging [[MiG-21F-13]] fleet. The primary upgrade among these was the MiG-21MF, standing for ''Modernizirovannyy Forsirovannyy'' (Modernized, Uprated) to denote the overhaul in avionics and the uprated engine of this type. This upgraded model, touting a different radar system over its predecessors, and an updated airframe shape with increased fuel load, and most importantly, armed with the deadly [[R-60]] air-to-air missile, would form the backbone of the East German air force until the arrival of the [[MiG-21bis-SAU (Germany)|MiG-21bis]] and later the [[MiG-23MF (Germany)|MiG-23MF]] aircraft into the East German fleet.
+
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
−
 
+
{{Break}}
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (NATO Code: Fishbed-J) was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]]. Like the other third-generation MiG-21 airframes, this one features a built in [[GSh-23-2 (23 mm)|GSh-23]] cannon under the fuselage, meaning it does not have to sacrifice the cannon to take countermeasures. In addition to that improvement, the MiG-21MF has a potent arsenal of weaponry for its battle rating, namely the [[R-60]] air-to-air missile. Combined with its incredible high speed manoeuvrability and overall gameplay loop, the MiG-21MF is a very potent fighter aircraft for its tier. Do be wary, however, that while the MiG-21MF is indeed lighter than its Soviet counterpart, the [[MiG-21SMT]], the SMT has a far better engine, which allows it to win dogfights easier assuming both planes start on equal footing.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]].
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
+
<!--'Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''-->
−
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
  
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' has mediocre flight performance in every aspect among top rank jets. It will get out-accelerated by British Phantoms or MiG-21 bis, outturned by Draken or Mirage, and out-sped by 2nd gen US Phantoms (F-4E/EJ), Starfighters or MiG-21 bis. The delta wing provides great angle-of-attack (AoA) while turning but it also mean the plane loses huge amount of speed doing so. This means that staying behind enemy in 1 vs. 1 is fairly simple, but when there are multiple bandits one might lose all their speed and become an easy missile target if turning too much.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' has good acceleration and, in terms of maneuverability, is second only to the J35 Draken. Keep in mind, however, that constant maneuvering will cause it to bleed a lot of speed. Its wings will not rip off from maneuvers. The acceleration is good at speeds under Mach, and once it hits Mach 1, the MiG-21MF can out accelerate everything except for the MiG-21SMT and the British Phantoms. It is also very easy to overspeed and rip in a dive so players should keep an eye on their speed.
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! 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>(metres)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
Line 36: Line 27:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| 2,295 || 2,240 || 32.3 || 33.0 || 192.8 || 165.0
+
|2295|| 2,240 ||32.3|| 33.0 ||192.8|| 165.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Details ====
 
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="6" | Features
 
! colspan="6" | Features
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
|-
 
|-
−
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
+
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
! colspan="7" | Limits
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 500 || 450 || ~12 || ~6
+
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 550 || 550 || 450 || ~11 || ~6
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 650 || < 600 || < 950 || N/A
+
| < 650 || < 600 || < 780 || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine
 
! colspan="3" | Engine
−
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
+
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 
! 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" | Empty mass || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-13-300 || 1
+
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-13-300 || 1
−
| colspan="2" | 5,962 kg || colspan="3" | 359 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
+
| colspan="2" | 5,860 kg || colspan="2" | 355 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
−
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
+
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br />Weight
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
−
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 38m fuel
+
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 29m fuel
 
|-
 
|-
 
| 1,135 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
 
| 1,135 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
−
| 6,651 kg || 7,170 kg || 7,774 kg || 8,258 kg || 9,900 kg
+
| 6,505 kg || 7,455 kg || 8,168 kg || 9,900 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="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="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Condition || 100% || WEP
 
! Condition || 100% || WEP
−
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 38m fuel || MTOW
+
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 29m fuel || MTOW
 
|-
 
|-
 
| ''Stationary'' || 3,825 kgf || 6,483 kgf
 
| ''Stationary'' || 3,825 kgf || 6,483 kgf
−
| 0.97 || 0.90 || 0.83 || 0.79 || 0.65
+
| 1.00 || 0.87 || 0.79 || 0.65
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Optimal'' || 3,825 kgf<br>(0 km/h) || 6,977 kgf<br>(1,200 km/h)
+
| ''Optimal'' || 3,825 kgf<br />(0 kph) || 6,977 kgf<br />(1,200 kph)
−
| 1.05 || 0.97 || 0.90 || 0.84 || 0.70
+
| 1.07 || 0.94 || 0.85 || 0.70
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and 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 MiG-21MF lacks armour plating. It also has one engine unlike some other planes. This means that the survivability is very low, even among jets. Getting hit is something that should be avoided at all cost, because should the plane survive it, even small wing damage will force the pilot to return to base. The plane has a radar warning receiver (RWR), and countermeasures, including flares and chaff.
+
The MiG-21MF lacks armor plating. There is none around the nose of the aircraft, making head-ons a death sentence. (Though at top rank, they're a bad idea with the 23 mm guns the plane has). The plane also has poor survivability like most jets at 10.3. Two fuel tanks in each wing allows even a stray cannon round to set you ablaze, though the main body of the plane is occasionally able to take a round or two. The wings are susceptible to being sheered off by incoming rounds. In short; getting hit is not something you want to do when playing the MiG-21MF.
−
 
 
−
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
−
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
−
 
 
−
Your main priority is to get to the R-60s as soon as possible, this will require you to unlock two tier III modifications. Unless you particularly want to research the ground attack ordnance you will be wanting to unlock "Wings repair" and "New 23 mm cannons" at tier III. Therefore you should research "Offensive 23 mm belts" as your first modification at tier I. This will then unlock tier II modifications where you can research "R-3S" and your choice of "New boosters" or "Airframe" (up to you in which order you unlock these), it may be appealing to unlock missiles first to help with the grind but you should keep in mind that the R-3S missiles are slightly worse than the [[AIM-9B]], which means they cannot be fired in even a gentle turn or climb. Once tier III modifications are accessible, you can unlock "Wings repair" and "New 23 mm cannons" in whichever order you want and then go for the R-60s. Once the R-60s are available you can unlock the remaining modifications in whatever order you see fit, however it is highly recommended to go for G-suit and engine upgrades first.
 
  
 
== 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 ===
−
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}
 
{{main|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}
Line 143: Line 117:
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
{{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-250-270 (250 kg)|S-24|S-5K|R-3S|R-60}}
  
 
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%"
+
* Without load
−
|-
+
* 64 x S-5K rockets
−
! !! width="9%" | 1 !! width="9%" | 2 !! width="9%" | 3 !! width="9%" | 4 !! width="9%" | 5
+
* 96 x S-5K rockets
−
| rowspan="9" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-21bis.png]]</div>
+
* 4 x S-24 rockets
−
|-
 
−
! [[OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250sv]] bombs
 
−
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[S-5K]] rockets
 
−
| 16 || 16, 32 || || 16, 32 || 16
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[S-24]] rockets
 
−
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[R-3R]] missiles
 
−
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[R-3S]] missiles
 
−
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[R-60]] missiles
 
−
| 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Countermeasures
 
−
| || || 64 || ||
 
−
|-
 
−
! 490 l drop tanks
 
−
| 1 || || 1 || || 1
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 
−
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 
−
* 3 x 490 l drop tanks
 
−
* 2 x 490 l drop tanks + 64 x countermeasures + 2 x R-3S missiles
 
−
* 2 x 490 l drop tanks + 64 x countermeasures + 2 x R-3R missiles
 
 
* 4 x R-3S missiles
 
* 4 x R-3S missiles
−
* 4 x R-3R missiles
 
 
* 4 x R-60 missiles
 
* 4 x R-60 missiles
−
* 4 x S-24 rockets
+
* 64 x S-5K rockets + 2 x R-3S missiles
−
* 64 x S-5K rockets
+
* 64 x S-5K rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
−
* 64 x S-5K rockets
+
* 2 x S-24 rockets + 2 x R-3S missiles
−
* 4 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (1,000 kg total)
+
* 2 x S-24 rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
−
* 64 x countermeasures
+
* 4 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs (1,000 kg total)
−
{{Navigation-End}}
+
* 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (500 kg total)
 +
* 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (500 kg total)
  
 
== 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).'' -->
  
−
While the '''{{Specs|name}}''' itself is a pretty mediocre fighter, it has access to 4 deadly R-60 missiles. These missiles work the best when enemy is slow, so the recommended tactic is to wait a bit before engaging into the battle. Acquiring a radar lock will slave the R-60's seeker to the target which can help leading the missile before launch. 
+
Combining an ability to pull high angle-of-attack turns on demand, excellent acceleration, high top speed, and powerful dog-fighting weaponry, the MiG-21MF is a potent air superiority fighter. Good maneuverability allows the pilot to easily establish a tailing flight path on most enemies, and from there, it is very hard for the enemy to shake the MiG-21MF off of their tail. The MiG, for its part, can then utilize its powerful R-60 missiles or 23 mm cannons to destroy the enemy with ease.
−
 
 
−
Due to the immense speed bleed in turns, it is strongly recommended to keep the speed high near enemies, unless one really wants to closely meet AIM-9J. Dropping below 800 km/h makes it really hard to dodge this missile. When an enemy is spotted, it is recommended to turn roughly into their direction, so when they engage, they'll have to make a 180° turn, which will give time for MiG pilot to disengage without risking getting hit by a missile.
 
−
 
 
−
Engaging in 1 v 1 situation can sometimes be done, but unless a faster opponent forces it (which happens rarely, as faster opponents turn worse than the MiG) it is only recommended if there are no other enemies nearby. However, do never turn-fight with Draken or Mirage. A good tactic for defensive dogfights is trying to make enemy overshoot, especially against Phantoms. Keep in mind however that you can outrun F-4C.
 
  
−
===Specific enemies worth noting===
+
Note that when using the Mig-21MF's air-to-air missiles, it is best to fire them at around 1-2 km of range. Any less than that, and the missile might not have enough time to manoeuvre and successfully track the enemy. At ranges above 2 km, the missile may not be able to catch a fast-moving target. As for the 23 mm offensive cannons, be careful to practice trigger discipline. A high rate of fire and a low ammo count means that it is only possible to fire the cannons for a few seconds before they need to be reloaded at the airfield.
  
−
* MiG-21 bis and MiG-21 SMT, if you play against the Soviets. They are faster and have better acceleration (bis in particular) but are slightly heavier and less agile
+
As a dogfighter, the MiG-21MF excels due to its powerful weaponry, great acceleration, and a good turn rate. It can easily turn with [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantoms]], although the [[J35D]] and [[Mirage IIIC]] both turn better. Against these two planes, it is best to avoid extended turn fights. Instead, gradually bleed their speed - they both have poor maneuvering energy retention. At high altitudes, this plane is not as responsive, due to its high wing load and the low air pressure. This makes it much harder to dodge incoming missiles, so it is especially important to keep a high speed when at high altitude.
−
* Mirage IIIC, has very similar acceleration and top speed, but will outturn MiG-21 MF and has great Matra Magic missiles.
 
−
* F-4E/F-4EJ. They are armed with great missiles, fighting them at altitude is not recommended. One the deck they are faster and have better energy retention.
 
−
* J35 Draken, will always outturn you. It is very important to keep an energy advantage when attempting to fight the Draken, turn fighting is the worst thing possible against a Draken and tactics that involve retaining energy is best when attempting to fight the Draken. Forcing the Draken to dump its energy is the best way to fight against it.
 
  
−
=== Radars ===
+
The MiG-21MF can also easily engage ground targets. Its cannons can destroy lightly armoured vehicles, and its 4 x S-24 rockets are extremely capable at dealing with even the most advanced MBTs. What's more, this plane has access to a ballistic computer which calculates the impact point of cannon shells, rockets, and bombs, making aiming against ground targets a breeze.
−
<!--{{main|AN/APS-19}}-->
 
−
The MiG-21MF is equipped with a Sapphire-21 search and tracking radar. The radar is mounted in the nose of the aircraft.
 
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
=== Modules ===
−
! colspan="4" | Sapphire-21 - Target Detection Radar
+
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Tier
 +
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 +
! Survivability
 +
! colspan="3" | Weaponry
 
|-
 
|-
−
! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Detection<br/>Range|The maximum possible range at which a target can be detected}}
+
| I
−
! {{Annotation|Guaranteed<br/>Detection<br/>Range|The range, below which, detection of a target is practically guaranteed}}
+
| Fuselage repair
−
! {{Annotation|Max Azimuth<br/>Scan Angle|How far to each side the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
+
| Compressor
−
! {{Annotation|Max Elevation<br/>Scan Angle|How far up and down the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
+
|
 +
| Offensive 23 mm
 +
| FAB-250
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 30,000 m<br>(theoretical) || 20,000 m || ±30.0° || -3.0°/+17.0°
+
| II
 +
| New boosters
 +
|
 +
| Airframe
 +
|
 +
| UB-16
 +
| R-3S
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Sapphire-21 - Target Tracking Radar
+
| III
 +
| Wings repair
 +
|
 +
|
 +
| New 23 mm cannons
 +
| UB-32
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
−
! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
+
| IV
−
! {{Annotation|Minimum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
+
| G-suit
−
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking<br/>Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
+
| Engine
−
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking<br/>Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
+
| Cover
−
|-
+
|
−
| 20,000 m || 300 m || ±30.0° || ±17.0°
+
| C-24
 +
| R-60
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 240: Line 193:
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Access to four [[R-60]] missiles with great tracking and G-tolerance
+
* R-60 missiles have very good tracking and G-tolerance
−
* High AoA, very agile and light
+
* More agile than many high-tier jets
−
* Middling ground attack loadouts
+
* Cannons with a high rate of fire
 +
* Good ground attack loadouts
 
* A small profile which is harder to hit
 
* A small profile which is harder to hit
−
* Equipped with flares, chaff is available
 
−
* One of the many MiG-21 variants capable of using a radar missile, being the [[R-3R]]
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Unsatisfactory cannon armament
+
* Low ammunition count
−
* Atrocious energy retention
+
* Poor energy retention in extended turning engagements
−
* No combat flaps
+
* Flaps rip easily
−
* Excessive fuel burn when using afterburner
+
* Poor maneuverability at low speeds
−
* Does not get [[R-13M1]] missiles
 
−
* [[R-60]]s chase flares constantly
 
−
* Using afterburner on the deck can overspeed the aircraft even in a slight climb
 
  
 
== 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).''
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The MiG-21MF (Germany) is a second-generation variant of the popular MiG-21 'Fishbed'. Operated by the East German Air Force (''Luftstreitkräfte der Nationalen Volksarmee''; '''LSK''') between 1972 and 1990, the aircraft was an export variant of the MiG-21SM, and is highly similar to its counterpart, the [[MiG-21SMT]]. Designated the 'Fishbed-J', the aircraft formed the bulk of the LSK in the late stages of the Cold War. All German MiG-21 aircraft were retired following the German Reunification, though some survive as museum aircraft to this day.<ref name=":0">Aviata. (2020)</ref><ref name=":1">Museum, D. (2020)</ref>
 
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=== Design and procurement ===
 
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The East German Air Force received many MiG-21 variants due to their ties with the Soviet Bloc. 76 MiG-21F-13 aircraft had been delivered to the East German Air Force in the early 1960s, and they later received 50 MiG-21PF 'Fishbed-D' planes, which were known as the MiG-21PFM in East German service.<ref name=":0" /> This generated considerable confusion as the German MiG-21PFs had inadvertently been given the same name as the later, Soviet-made, MiG-21PFM 'Fishbed-F'.<ref name=":0" /> However, in the early 1970s, the LSK received its first 3rd-generation MiG-21s, the MiG-21MF. This aircraft was essentially an export variant of the Soviet MiG-21SM. 50 MiG-21MFs were delivered to the LSK between 1972 and 1974.<ref name=":0" />
 
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The MiG-21MF differs from the standard MiG-21SM by having a less powerful engine and simplified radar system, meaning that it accelerates slightly slower than its Soviet counterpart. It could reach a maximum speed of 2,230 km/h, and was flown by a single pilot.<ref name=":1" /> As an interceptor, it carried a 23 mm dual-barreled cannon with 200 rounds in a ventral pack, and was also capable of fitting a variety of munitions including bombs, rockets and missiles.<ref name=":0" />
 
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=== Service history ===
 
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The MiG-21MF enjoyed a fairly uneventful service history with the LSK. The aircraft served with ''Jagdgeschwader'' (JG, fighter group) 8 and JG 9. It complemented the earlier MiG-21PFM and MiG-21F-13 aircraft in German service. Later on, it was complemented by the MiG-21bis, the final MiG-21 variant to serve with the German Air Force. At the time of the German reunification, many MiG-21s remained in German service.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> As the new combined ''Luftwaffe'' had no plans to continue using the Soviet-era interceptor, all MiG-21 aircraft were retired in late 1990 following the German reunification. Many of those aircraft were reserved as museum pieces, and several survive to this day in museums across the globe.<ref name=":1" />
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig-21_mf Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=aircraft&vehicleClass=fighter&vehicle=mig-21_mf Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
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{{Youtube-gallery|oMWZhOXmQYg|'''"MiG-21MF - The Orange MiG [Air Forces]''' - ''BaconGaming''|vhTZXYk6eao|'''Tank busters''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 4:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|DwixJCfFMU8|'''MiG-21MF''' - ''Napalmratte''|R8lBSC7IFUM|'''Should You Buy The MiG-21MF??''' - ''Sako Sniper''}}
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{{Youtube-gallery|vhTZXYk6eao|'''Tank busters''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 4:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''{{Specs-Link|mig-21_smt}}''
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* ''{{Specs-Link|mig-21_f13}}''
  
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== External links ==
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== External links ==
 
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* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
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* ''other literature.''
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* [[wikipedia:Mikoyan-Gurevich_MiG-21|[Wikipedia] Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21]]
 
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* [http://www.airvectors.net/avmig21_1.html <nowiki>[Air Vectors]</nowiki> The Mikoyan MiG-21 - MiG-21 Single-Seat Variants]
 
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* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/479893-mig-21mf/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 
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=== References ===
 
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<references />
 
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=== Works Cited ===
 
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* Aviata. (2020). German MiG-21. Retrieved November 23, 2020, from <nowiki>https://aviatia.net/german-mig-21/</nowiki>
 
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* Museum, D. (2020). Mikojan-Gurewitsch MiG-21 MF. Retrieved November 23, 2020, from <nowiki>https://www.deutsches-museum.de/en/flugwerft/collections/jet-aircraft/mig-21/</nowiki>
 
  
 
{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
 
{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
 
{{Germany jet aircraft}}
 
{{Germany jet aircraft}}

Revision as of 10:24, 31 August 2020

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
◊MiG-21MF
mig-21_mf.png
◊MiG-21MF
Germany flag.png Germany
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
10.0 10.3 10.7
Class:
Research:260 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:710 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

GarageImage MiG-21MF (Germany).jpg


The ◊MiG-21MF is a rank VII German jet fighter with a battle rating of 10.0 (AB), 10.3 (RB), and 10.7 (SB). It was introduced in Update 1.95 "Northern Wind".

General info

Flight performance

The ◊MiG-21MF has good acceleration and, in terms of maneuverability, is second only to the J35 Draken. Keep in mind, however, that constant maneuvering will cause it to bleed a lot of speed. Its wings will not rip off from maneuvers. The acceleration is good at speeds under Mach, and once it hits Mach 1, the MiG-21MF can out accelerate everything except for the MiG-21SMT and the British Phantoms. It is also very easy to overspeed and rip in a dive so players should keep an eye on their speed.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 13,000 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 2,196 2,178 16000 34.0 35.1 139.6 131.0 750
Upgraded 2295 2,240 32.3 33.0 192.8 165.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1365 700 550 550 450 ~11 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 650 < 600 < 780 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Empty mass Wing loading (full fuel)
Tumansky R-13-300 1 5,860 kg 355 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 8m fuel 20m fuel 29m fuel
1,135 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 6,505 kg 7,455 kg 8,168 kg 9,900 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 8m fuel 20m fuel 29m fuel MTOW
Stationary 3,825 kgf 6,483 kgf 1.00 0.87 0.79 0.65
Optimal 3,825 kgf
(0 kph) 		6,977 kgf
(1,200 kph) 		1.07 0.94 0.85 0.70

Survivability and armour

The MiG-21MF lacks armor plating. There is none around the nose of the aircraft, making head-ons a death sentence. (Though at top rank, they're a bad idea with the 23 mm guns the plane has). The plane also has poor survivability like most jets at 10.3. Two fuel tanks in each wing allows even a stray cannon round to set you ablaze, though the main body of the plane is occasionally able to take a round or two. The wings are susceptible to being sheered off by incoming rounds. In short; getting hit is not something you want to do when playing the MiG-21MF.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: GSh-23L (23 mm)

The MiG-21MF (Germany) is armed with:

  • 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)

Suspended armament

Main articles: OFAB-250-270 (250 kg), S-24, S-5K, R-3S, R-60

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

  • Without load
  • 64 x S-5K rockets
  • 96 x S-5K rockets
  • 4 x S-24 rockets
  • 4 x R-3S missiles
  • 4 x R-60 missiles
  • 64 x S-5K rockets + 2 x R-3S missiles
  • 64 x S-5K rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
  • 2 x S-24 rockets + 2 x R-3S missiles
  • 2 x S-24 rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
  • 4 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (500 kg total)
  • 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (500 kg total)

Usage in battles

Combining an ability to pull high angle-of-attack turns on demand, excellent acceleration, high top speed, and powerful dog-fighting weaponry, the MiG-21MF is a potent air superiority fighter. Good maneuverability allows the pilot to easily establish a tailing flight path on most enemies, and from there, it is very hard for the enemy to shake the MiG-21MF off of their tail. The MiG, for its part, can then utilize its powerful R-60 missiles or 23 mm cannons to destroy the enemy with ease.

Note that when using the Mig-21MF's air-to-air missiles, it is best to fire them at around 1-2 km of range. Any less than that, and the missile might not have enough time to manoeuvre and successfully track the enemy. At ranges above 2 km, the missile may not be able to catch a fast-moving target. As for the 23 mm offensive cannons, be careful to practice trigger discipline. A high rate of fire and a low ammo count means that it is only possible to fire the cannons for a few seconds before they need to be reloaded at the airfield.

As a dogfighter, the MiG-21MF excels due to its powerful weaponry, great acceleration, and a good turn rate. It can easily turn with F-4 Phantoms, although the J35D and Mirage IIIC both turn better. Against these two planes, it is best to avoid extended turn fights. Instead, gradually bleed their speed - they both have poor maneuvering energy retention. At high altitudes, this plane is not as responsive, due to its high wing load and the low air pressure. This makes it much harder to dodge incoming missiles, so it is especially important to keep a high speed when at high altitude.

The MiG-21MF can also easily engage ground targets. Its cannons can destroy lightly armoured vehicles, and its 4 x S-24 rockets are extremely capable at dealing with even the most advanced MBTs. What's more, this plane has access to a ballistic computer which calculates the impact point of cannon shells, rockets, and bombs, making aiming against ground targets a breeze.

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage repair Compressor Offensive 23 mm FAB-250
II New boosters Airframe UB-16 R-3S
III Wings repair New 23 mm cannons UB-32
IV G-suit Engine Cover C-24 R-60

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • R-60 missiles have very good tracking and G-tolerance
  • More agile than many high-tier jets
  • Cannons with a high rate of fire
  • Good ground attack loadouts
  • A small profile which is harder to hit

Cons:

  • Low ammunition count
  • Poor energy retention in extended turning engagements
  • Flaps rip easily
  • Poor maneuverability at low speeds

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: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref></ref>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <references />. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under === In-game description ===, also if applicable).

Media

Skins
Images
  • MiG-21MF.jpg
Videos
Tank busters discusses the MiG-21MF (Germany) at 4:19 - War Thunder Official Channel

See also

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • encyclopedia page on the aircraft;
  • 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" · 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
Ar 234  Ar 234 B-2 · Ar 234 C-3
He 162  He 162 A-1 · He 162 A-2
Ho 229  Ho 229 V3
Me 163  Me 163 B · Me 163 B-0
Me 262 A  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  Me 262 C-1a · Me 262 C-2b
Tornado  ◄Tornado IDS WTD61 · ◄Tornado IDS MFG · ◄Tornado IDS ASSTA1
West Germany  Alpha Jet A
USA  ◄F-84F
  ◄CL-13A Mk 5 · ◄CL-13B Mk.6 · ◄F-86K
  ◄F-104G
  ◄F-4F Early · ◄F-4F
USSR  ◊MiG-15bis
  ◊MiG-19S
  ◄MiG-21 SPS-K · ◊MiG-21MF · ◊MiG-21bis-SAU · ◊MiG-21 "Lazur-M"
  ◊MiG-23BN · ◊MiG-23MF · ◊MiG-23MLA
  ◊MiG-29 · ◄MiG-29G
  ◊Su-22UM3K · ◊Su-22M4
  ◊IL-28
Poland  ◊Lim-5P
Britain  ◄Sea Hawk Mk.100 · ◌Hunter F.58 (Swiss)
Italy  ◄G.91 R/3 · ◄G.91 R/4

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