Difference between revisions of "MiG-21SMT"
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− | {{Specs-Card|code=mig-21_smt}} | + | {{About |
+ | | about = Russian jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}''' | ||
+ | | usage = other versions | ||
+ | | link = MiG-21 (Family) | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{Specs-Card | ||
+ | |code=mig-21_smt | ||
+ | |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.'' --> | ||
− | |||
− | |||
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]]. | The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]]. | ||
== 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}} |
+ | <!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' --> | ||
As an evolution of the previous [[MiG-21F-13|MiG-21 F-13]], the {{PAGENAME}} inherits some flight characteristics of its older sibling. | As an evolution of the previous [[MiG-21F-13|MiG-21 F-13]], the {{PAGENAME}} inherits some flight characteristics of its older sibling. | ||
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Both of them can pull high angle-of-attack (AoA) which enables its pilot to easily get guns on target at the cost of extreme speed loss. Both of them are light aircraft which enables them to climb with ease. And both of them have high wing loading, which can hinder manoeuvrability, particularly at high altitudes where the atmosphere is thinner. However, that's where the similarities end, as the {{PAGENAME}} comes with upgrades, most notably removed armour which shaved 500 kg off its scale and an uprated engine, the R-13F-300, which outputs 5722 kgf, 700 more than R-11F-300 on MiG-21 F-13. In practice, this means that the {{PAGENAME}} is best in class when it comes to acceleration and climbing performance. | Both of them can pull high angle-of-attack (AoA) which enables its pilot to easily get guns on target at the cost of extreme speed loss. Both of them are light aircraft which enables them to climb with ease. And both of them have high wing loading, which can hinder manoeuvrability, particularly at high altitudes where the atmosphere is thinner. However, that's where the similarities end, as the {{PAGENAME}} comes with upgrades, most notably removed armour which shaved 500 kg off its scale and an uprated engine, the R-13F-300, which outputs 5722 kgf, 700 more than R-11F-300 on MiG-21 F-13. In practice, this means that the {{PAGENAME}} is best in class when it comes to acceleration and climbing performance. | ||
− | + | Manoeuvrability wise, SMT is extremely nimble at lower altitudes, where its high AoA can outweigh its high wing load, and high acceleration can mitigate speed loss, allowing it to pull hard turns, provided the pilot monitors the speed. At high altitudes, the story is different, as it proves to be very unresponsive, leaving the user vulnerable to attacks, particularly to missiles. One more characteristic any prospecting user should note is that the aircraft tends to break its wings beyond 11 G, and considering the {{PAGENAME}} will merrily pull over 12 G at high speed turns if the boosters modification is equipped, unequipping it may help if the pilot has trouble with wings ripping. | |
− | When it comes to raw straight-line speed, the {{PAGENAME}} can get to its top speed much faster than its contemporary fighters at any altitude. In fact, speed should always be monitored, as it can easily reach its relatively high wing speed limit of ~1300 | + | When it comes to raw straight-line speed, the {{PAGENAME}} can get to its top speed much faster than its contemporary fighters at any altitude. In fact, speed should always be monitored, as it can easily reach its relatively high wing speed limit of ~1300 km/h indicated airspeed (IAS), even at level flight. High acceleration and high top speed mean that the {{PAGENAME}} is more than able to intercept almost any target, the only exception being [[F-4C Phantom II|F-4C]] which is already sitting at its top speed. One more notable feature is that due to its low weight and high thrust, energy management is a breeze and the aircraft will quickly both lose and gain speed, which may prove useful when trying to stay on the target's back. |
− | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | + | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%" |
! 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>( | + | ! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres) |
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds) | ! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds) | ||
− | ! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>( | + | ! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second) |
− | ! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>( | + | ! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres) |
|- | |- | ||
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB | ! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB | ||
|- | |- | ||
! Stock | ! Stock | ||
− | | 2, | + | | 2,164 || 2,126 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 36.8 || 37.8 || 136.9 || 128.0 || rowspan="2" | 750 |
|- | |- | ||
! Upgraded | ! Upgraded | ||
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==== Details ==== | ==== Details ==== | ||
− | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | + | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%" |
|- | |- | ||
! 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 || ✓ <!-- ✓ --> |
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
− | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | + | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%" |
|- | |- | ||
! colspan="7" | Limits | ! colspan="7" | Limits | ||
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! - | ! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! - | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || | + | | {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 524 || 450 || ~11 || ~6 |
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator | ! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | < 650 || < 600 || < | + | | < 650 || < 600 || < 950 || N/A |
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
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! colspan="3" |Limits | ! colspan="3" |Limits | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | ! Mach Number !! IAS (km/h) | + | ! Mach Number !! IAS (km/h) |
− | (max-zero fuel) | + | (max-zero fuel) |
! Nose Angle (Sea Level, Degrees) | ! Nose Angle (Sea Level, Degrees) | ||
(max-zero fuel) | (max-zero fuel) | ||
!Climb Rate (m/s) | !Climb Rate (m/s) | ||
(max-zero fuel) | (max-zero fuel) | ||
− | !Best Glide ( | + | !Best Glide (km/h) |
(max-zero fuel) | (max-zero fuel) | ||
!Best Glide | !Best Glide | ||
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!Critical Angle of Attack | !Critical Angle of Attack | ||
(Degrees) | (Degrees) | ||
− | !Zero-Thrust 1G Stall ( | + | !Zero-Thrust 1G Stall (km/h) |
(max-zero fuel) | (max-zero fuel) | ||
− | !Corner Speed ( | + | !Corner Speed (km/h) |
|- | |- | ||
| 0.90 || ~950-680 || 44-65 | | 0.90 || ~950-680 || 44-65 | ||
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|25 | |25 | ||
|278-216 | |278-216 | ||
− | |850<!-- Two Tests: 11.3 Gs, 1118 | + | |850<!-- Two Tests: 11.3 Gs, 1118 km/h, max fuel load (equates to 890 km/h) 10.3Gs, 1063 km/h, max fuel load (equates to 850 km/h). Used lower value. Note that actual corner speed boundry has to be lower than the calculated number because G-load limit is a probability zone that increases chance of rip above G tolerance.--> |
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
+ | ==== Engine performance ==== | ||
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | ||
|- | |- | ||
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! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel | ! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | 1, | + | | 1,140 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet |
| 6,761 kg || 7,739 kg || 8,267 kg || 9,900 kg | | 6,761 kg || 7,739 kg || 8,267 kg || 9,900 kg | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| 1.08 || 0.94 || 0.88 || 0.74 | | 1.08 || 0.94 || 0.88 || 0.74 | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | ''Optimal'' || 3,917 kgf<br />(0 | + | | ''Optimal'' || 3,917 kgf<br />(0 km/h) || 7,850 kgf<br />(1,200 km/h) |
| 1.16 || 1.01 || 0.95 || 0.79 | | 1.16 || 1.01 || 0.95 || 0.79 | ||
|- | |- | ||
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=== 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.'' --> | ||
The {{PAGENAME}} is a light fighter and its survivability reflects that. It lacks armour and the airframe is fragile. On top of it all, MiG-21, in general, has a very unstable airframe, which means that any changes to its aerodynamic properties may make it difficult to control. Exercise caution when flying it. | The {{PAGENAME}} is a light fighter and its survivability reflects that. It lacks armour and the airframe is fragile. On top of it all, MiG-21, in general, has a very unstable airframe, which means that any changes to its aerodynamic properties may make it difficult to control. Exercise caution when flying it. | ||
+ | |||
+ | === 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|GSh-23L (23 mm)}} | {{main|GSh-23L (23 mm)}} | ||
− | The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is | + | The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with: |
− | * 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L | + | * 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg) |
− | The GSh-23L fires at a rate of 3,396 rounds per minute, which leaves the plane with a 3.53 second firing time | + | The GSh-23L fires at a rate of 3,396 rounds per minute, which leaves the plane with a 3.53 second firing time. |
=== 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}} |
− | + | <!-- ''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)|FAB-500M-54 (500 kg)}} | {{main|OFAB-250-270 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-54 (500 kg)}} | ||
+ | {{main|R-3R|R-3S|R-60|S-5K|S-24}} | ||
− | The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following | + | The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance: |
* Without load | * Without load | ||
− | * 64 x S-5K | + | * 64 x S-5K rockets |
− | * 96 x S-5K | + | * 96 x S-5K rockets |
− | * 4 x S-24 | + | * 4 x S-24 rockets |
− | * 4 x R-3S | + | * 4 x R-3S missiles |
− | * 4 x R-60 | + | * 4 x R-3R missiles |
− | * 2 x R- | + | * 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles |
− | * 2 x R-60 | + | * 4 x R-60 missiles |
− | * 2 x R- | + | * 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x R-60 missiles |
− | * 2 x R-60 | + | * 2 x R-3S missiles + 64 x S-5K rockets |
+ | * 2 x R-3R missiles + 64 x S-5K rockets | ||
+ | * 2 x R-60 missiles + 64 x S-5K rockets | ||
+ | * 2 x R-3S missiles + 2 x S-24 rockets | ||
+ | * 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x S-24 rockets | ||
+ | * 2 x R-60 missiles + 2 x S-24 rockets | ||
* 4 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs (1,000 kg total) | * 4 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs (1,000 kg total) | ||
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-54 bombs (1,000 kg total) | * 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-54 bombs (1,000 kg total) | ||
− | * 2 x R-3S | + | * 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-3R missiles (500 kg total) | |
+ | * 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (500 kg total) | ||
The {{PAGENAME}} can be armed with both anti-air missiles and ground strike ordinance on its four hard-point pylons under the wing. While most of the weapons can be seen on other aircraft, the unique weapon that this aircraft can carry is R-60 IR air-to-air missile. Compared to R-3S which can be found on most Russian aircraft capable of launching missiles, R-60 has a much more sophisticated IR tracking system, allowing it to track targets up to 5 km away, and keep them on its sights at a much faster pace, which results in a reliable lock that not many targets can shake off. R-60 can also be fired in a wider range of situations, as the missile can track targets while on the pylon. This is critical to how the missile works which means that the missile has a much higher launch load factor and is able to intercept targets immediately after being launched. This is much different than the R-3S which tracks targets only half a second after launch and needs the platform to stay still in order to track the target, leaving the aircraft vulnerable to attacks. R-60 is a much smaller missile than R-3S, weighing at 44 kg instead of 77 kg that an R-3S weighs. Missile's explosive payload is also significantly smaller, weighing at 3.5 kg. Rocket motors on R-60 are much smaller than on R-3S and this means that R-60 is much slower than R-3S, and even though it can lock on targets at 5 km, it has a lower range than R-3S. In practice, R-60 is a reliable and potent anti-aircraft weapon that excels at taking out even nimble targets in dogfights at ranges from 300 m to 2 km but is unable to reach targets beyond 3 km due to its less powerful rocket motors. R-3S, however, can only be used reliably at targets which are not paying attention or are unable to react quickly to a missile launch, but they can also be used to intercept targets at much further ranges than R-60. | The {{PAGENAME}} can be armed with both anti-air missiles and ground strike ordinance on its four hard-point pylons under the wing. While most of the weapons can be seen on other aircraft, the unique weapon that this aircraft can carry is R-60 IR air-to-air missile. Compared to R-3S which can be found on most Russian aircraft capable of launching missiles, R-60 has a much more sophisticated IR tracking system, allowing it to track targets up to 5 km away, and keep them on its sights at a much faster pace, which results in a reliable lock that not many targets can shake off. R-60 can also be fired in a wider range of situations, as the missile can track targets while on the pylon. This is critical to how the missile works which means that the missile has a much higher launch load factor and is able to intercept targets immediately after being launched. This is much different than the R-3S which tracks targets only half a second after launch and needs the platform to stay still in order to track the target, leaving the aircraft vulnerable to attacks. R-60 is a much smaller missile than R-3S, weighing at 44 kg instead of 77 kg that an R-3S weighs. Missile's explosive payload is also significantly smaller, weighing at 3.5 kg. Rocket motors on R-60 are much smaller than on R-3S and this means that R-60 is much slower than R-3S, and even though it can lock on targets at 5 km, it has a lower range than R-3S. In practice, R-60 is a reliable and potent anti-aircraft weapon that excels at taking out even nimble targets in dogfights at ranges from 300 m to 2 km but is unable to reach targets beyond 3 km due to its less powerful rocket motors. R-3S, however, can only be used reliably at targets which are not paying attention or are unable to react quickly to a missile launch, but they can also be used to intercept targets at much further ranges than R-60. | ||
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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).'' --> |
+ | |||
+ | Combining its ability to pull high angle-of-attack on demand, excellent acceleration, high top speed and powerful dogfighting weaponry, {{PAGENAME}} is a potent air superiority dogfighter/interceptor. It allows the pilot to intercept any target, quickly get on its back and stay there, while also giving the user a safety net in the shape of its acceleration that enables it to break from any engagement with ease. It is recommended to stay at low altitude and not use full elevator if not in a dogfight. For air-to-air combat, the 4 x R-60 setup is the most versatile, albeit the 2 x R-60 and 2 x R-3R setup will allow you to get the most out of head-on scenario. If going for the latter option, make sure to create a keybind to switch between the different missiles using the [[Weapons selector]] mechanic. Overall, the MiG-21SMT is a versatile plane adaptable to any playstyle. | ||
+ | |||
+ | '''Enemies worth noting''' | ||
+ | |||
+ | * [[F-4E]]/[[F-4EJ|EJ]] - Most common enemy, their potent missile armament is something to be feared but the SMT will beat it in a dogfight. [[F-4C]]s, [[Phantom FGR.2|FGR.2s]], and [[Phantom FG.1|FG.1s]] are effectively the same plane with different missiles. | ||
+ | |||
+ | * [[Mirage IIIC]] - High priority targets, their missiles are nearly undodgeable. The SMT can win a dogfight, but it is a 50/50 chance and depends on pilot skill and crew. | ||
− | + | * [[J35D]] - Effectively the only plane that can outmanoeuvre an SMT, it is best to target them when they are distracted. | |
+ | |||
+ | ===Radars=== | ||
+ | <!--{{main|AN/APS-19}}--> | ||
+ | The MiG-21SMT is equipped with a RP-21 Sapfir search and tracking radar. The radar is mounted in the nose of the aircraft. | ||
+ | |||
+ | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | ||
+ | ! colspan="4" | RP-21 - Target Detection Radar | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Detection<br/>Range|The maximum possible range at which a target can be detected}} | ||
+ | ! {{Annotation|Guaranteed<br/>Detection<br/>Range|The range, below which, detection of a target is practically guaranteed}} | ||
+ | ! {{Annotation|Max Azimuth<br/>Scan Angle|How far to each side the radar can scan (widest search mode)}} | ||
+ | ! {{Annotation|Max Elevation<br/>Scan Angle|How far up and down the radar can scan (widest search mode)}} | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | | 30,000 m<br />(theoretical) || 20,000 m || ±30.0° || -3.0°/+17.0° | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! colspan="4" | RP-21 - Target Tracking Radar | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}} | ||
+ | ! {{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}} | ||
+ | ! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking<br/>Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}} | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | | 20,000 m || 300 m || ±30.0° || ±17.0° | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | |} | ||
=== Pros and cons === | === 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:''' | ||
− | * High thrust-to-weight ratio | + | * High thrust-to-weight ratio |
− | * Excellent acceleration from 1,000 - 1,200 | + | * Excellent acceleration from 1,000 - 1,200 km/h |
− | * R-60 missile is | + | * Excellent rate of climb, can maintain mach 1+ at 30 degrees |
− | * Maintains speed in turns better than [[MiG-21 F-13]] | + | * R-60 missile is tied as the highest G loading missile in-game (can lock on in most side aspect scenarios) |
+ | * Only in game version of the MiG-21, alongside the [[MiG-21bis]], capable of being equipped with a radar missile, that being the [[R-3R]] | ||
+ | * Maintains speed and energy in turns better than the [[MiG-21 F-13|MiG-21F-13]] | ||
+ | * Its RP-22SM radar has high tracking range | ||
* Much higher rate of fire than earlier cannon-armed Soviet jets | * Much higher rate of fire than earlier cannon-armed Soviet jets | ||
− | * | + | * Has a radar-warning-receiver (RWR) |
+ | * Can perform a cobra with full real controls | ||
'''Cons:''' | '''Cons:''' | ||
− | * | + | * GSh-23L cannon is mounted oddly and has poor ballistics |
* Less agile than other MiG-21 variants | * Less agile than other MiG-21 variants | ||
− | |||
* Using afterburner on the deck can overspeed the aircraft even in a slight climb | * Using afterburner on the deck can overspeed the aircraft even in a slight climb | ||
− | ** The SMT variant has a significantly increased | + | * Like the 21F before it, takes damage poorly |
− | + | ** The SMT variant has a significantly increased chance of breakup above the redline compared to the F-13 (Do not linger above redline at all if possible) | |
− | * Radar is of shorter range than most competitors | + | * Radar is of shorter detection range than most competitors |
== 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).'' --> |
+ | The MiG-21 was a supersonic interceptor aircraft designed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau (Mikoyan OKB) located in the Soviet Union. The development of the aircraft began in early 1950's, when Mikoyan OKB finished their first design of the aircraft designated as Ye-1. However, the prototype was quickly determined to be too under-powered, and led to the a redesign of the aircraft, designated Ye-2. Both of these aircraft and the prototype to follow had swept back wings, such as those found on the MiG-15. The first prototype to have the signature delta wings of the MiG-21 was the Ye-4. The aircraft made it's maiden flight on June 16th, 1955, and made its first public appearance during the Soviet Aviation Display at Moscow's Tushino Airfield in July 1956. The MiG 21 became the Soviet Unions first successful fighter and interceptor aircraft, it was lightweight, and had a powerful afterburner, allowing it to reach speeds of up to Mach 2, and was comparable to the French Dassault Mirage III, and American Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter and Lockheed F-104 Starfighter at the time. However, the aircraft had a short range, which was worsened by the poor placement of its fuel tanks. Due to this, the development of the MiG-21 SMT began. The SMT variant of the MiG-21 contained more fuel tanks in the spine of the aircraft, which resulted in the aircraft being hard to fly as a result of the enlarged spine. The fuel tank however, did give the aircraft an increased range of up to 250 km (155 mi). The SMT variant also had an electronic countermeasures capability. The MiG-21 SMT is no longer in service. | ||
== Media == | == Media == | ||
− | ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, 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/?vehicleCountry=ussr&vehicleType=aircraft&vehicleClass=fighter&vehicle=mig-21_smt Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.] | ||
+ | |||
+ | ;Videos | ||
+ | {{Youtube-gallery|M1QGN0ge4C8|'''The Shooting Range #181''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:29 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|vhTZXYk6eao|'''Tank busters''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 4:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}} | ||
== 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;'' | ||
+ | * ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' --> | ||
− | * | + | * {{Specs-Link|mig-21_mf}} |
− | * | + | * {{Specs-Link|mig-21_f13}} |
+ | * [[MiG-21bis]] | ||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
<!--''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:'' | <!--''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:'' | ||
+ | |||
* ''topic on the official game forum;'' | * ''topic on the official game forum;'' | ||
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;'' | * ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;'' | ||
* ''other literature.''--> | * ''other literature.''--> | ||
− | * [https:// | + | * [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/479891-mig-21smt/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance] |
{{AirManufacturer MiG}} | {{AirManufacturer MiG}} | ||
{{USSR jet aircraft}} | {{USSR jet aircraft}} |
Revision as of 12:17, 10 April 2021
This page is about the Russian jet fighter MiG-21SMT. For other versions, see MiG-21 (Family). |
Contents
Description
The MiG-21SMT is a rank VII Soviet 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
As an evolution of the previous MiG-21 F-13, the MiG-21SMT inherits some flight characteristics of its older sibling.
Both of them can pull high angle-of-attack (AoA) which enables its pilot to easily get guns on target at the cost of extreme speed loss. Both of them are light aircraft which enables them to climb with ease. And both of them have high wing loading, which can hinder manoeuvrability, particularly at high altitudes where the atmosphere is thinner. However, that's where the similarities end, as the MiG-21SMT comes with upgrades, most notably removed armour which shaved 500 kg off its scale and an uprated engine, the R-13F-300, which outputs 5722 kgf, 700 more than R-11F-300 on MiG-21 F-13. In practice, this means that the MiG-21SMT is best in class when it comes to acceleration and climbing performance.
Manoeuvrability wise, SMT is extremely nimble at lower altitudes, where its high AoA can outweigh its high wing load, and high acceleration can mitigate speed loss, allowing it to pull hard turns, provided the pilot monitors the speed. At high altitudes, the story is different, as it proves to be very unresponsive, leaving the user vulnerable to attacks, particularly to missiles. One more characteristic any prospecting user should note is that the aircraft tends to break its wings beyond 11 G, and considering the MiG-21SMT will merrily pull over 12 G at high speed turns if the boosters modification is equipped, unequipping it may help if the pilot has trouble with wings ripping.
When it comes to raw straight-line speed, the MiG-21SMT can get to its top speed much faster than its contemporary fighters at any altitude. In fact, speed should always be monitored, as it can easily reach its relatively high wing speed limit of ~1300 km/h indicated airspeed (IAS), even at level flight. High acceleration and high top speed mean that the MiG-21SMT is more than able to intercept almost any target, the only exception being F-4C which is already sitting at its top speed. One more notable feature is that due to its low weight and high thrust, energy management is a breeze and the aircraft will quickly both lose and gain speed, which may prove useful when trying to stay on the target's back.
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 | 2,164 | 2,126 | 16000 | 36.8 | 37.8 | 136.9 | 128.0 | 750 |
Upgraded | 2,318 | 2,240 | 35.4 | 36.0 | 196.3 | 165.0 |
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 | 524 | 450 | ~11 | ~6 |
Optimal velocities (km/h) | |||
---|---|---|---|
Ailerons | Rudder | Elevators | Radiator |
< 650 | < 600 | < 950 | N/A |
Wing Performance (Clean Configuration) | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Maximum Climb
(Use Mach Number until IAS lowers to the appropriate value) |
Efficiency | Limits | ||||||
Mach Number | IAS (km/h)
(max-zero fuel) |
Nose Angle (Sea Level, Degrees)
(max-zero fuel) |
Climb Rate (m/s)
(max-zero fuel) |
Best Glide (km/h)
(max-zero fuel) |
Best Glide
Angle, Ratio (Degrees, ratio) |
Critical Angle of Attack
(Degrees) |
Zero-Thrust 1G Stall (km/h)
(max-zero fuel) |
Corner Speed (km/h) |
0.90 | ~950-680 | 44-65 | 280-195 | ~900-640 | ~4.1, ~14:1 | 25 | 278-216 | 850 |
Engine performance
Engine | Aircraft mass | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Engine name | Number | Empty mass | Wing loading (full fuel) | |||
Tumansky R-13F-300 | 1 | 5,950 kg | 360 kg/m2 | |||
Engine characteristics | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) | Max Takeoff Weight | ||||
Weight (each) | Type | 9m fuel | 20m fuel | 30m fuel | ||
1,140 kg | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet | 6,761 kg | 7,739 kg | 8,267 kg | 9,900 kg | |
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB) | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP) | |||||
Condition | 100% | WEP | 9m fuel | 20m fuel | 30m fuel | MTOW |
Stationary | 3,917 kgf | 7,295 kgf | 1.08 | 0.94 | 0.88 | 0.74 |
Optimal | 3,917 kgf (0 km/h) |
7,850 kgf (1,200 km/h) |
1.16 | 1.01 | 0.95 | 0.79 |
Survivability and armour
The MiG-21SMT is a light fighter and its survivability reflects that. It lacks armour and the airframe is fragile. On top of it all, MiG-21, in general, has a very unstable airframe, which means that any changes to its aerodynamic properties may make it difficult to control. Exercise caution when flying it.
Modifications and economy
Armaments
Ballistic Computer | |||
---|---|---|---|
CCIP (Guns) | CCIP (Rockets) | CCIP (Bombs) | CCRP (Bombs) |
Offensive armament
The MiG-21SMT is armed with:
- 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
The GSh-23L fires at a rate of 3,396 rounds per minute, which leaves the plane with a 3.53 second firing time.
Suspended armament
The MiG-21SMT 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-3R missiles
- 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles
- 4 x R-60 missiles
- 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x R-60 missiles
- 2 x R-3S missiles + 64 x S-5K rockets
- 2 x R-3R missiles + 64 x S-5K rockets
- 2 x R-60 missiles + 64 x S-5K rockets
- 2 x R-3S missiles + 2 x S-24 rockets
- 2 x R-3R missiles + 2 x S-24 rockets
- 2 x R-60 missiles + 2 x S-24 rockets
- 4 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs (1,000 kg total)
- 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-54 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-3R missiles (500 kg total)
- 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (500 kg total)
The MiG-21SMT can be armed with both anti-air missiles and ground strike ordinance on its four hard-point pylons under the wing. While most of the weapons can be seen on other aircraft, the unique weapon that this aircraft can carry is R-60 IR air-to-air missile. Compared to R-3S which can be found on most Russian aircraft capable of launching missiles, R-60 has a much more sophisticated IR tracking system, allowing it to track targets up to 5 km away, and keep them on its sights at a much faster pace, which results in a reliable lock that not many targets can shake off. R-60 can also be fired in a wider range of situations, as the missile can track targets while on the pylon. This is critical to how the missile works which means that the missile has a much higher launch load factor and is able to intercept targets immediately after being launched. This is much different than the R-3S which tracks targets only half a second after launch and needs the platform to stay still in order to track the target, leaving the aircraft vulnerable to attacks. R-60 is a much smaller missile than R-3S, weighing at 44 kg instead of 77 kg that an R-3S weighs. Missile's explosive payload is also significantly smaller, weighing at 3.5 kg. Rocket motors on R-60 are much smaller than on R-3S and this means that R-60 is much slower than R-3S, and even though it can lock on targets at 5 km, it has a lower range than R-3S. In practice, R-60 is a reliable and potent anti-aircraft weapon that excels at taking out even nimble targets in dogfights at ranges from 300 m to 2 km but is unable to reach targets beyond 3 km due to its less powerful rocket motors. R-3S, however, can only be used reliably at targets which are not paying attention or are unable to react quickly to a missile launch, but they can also be used to intercept targets at much further ranges than R-60.
When it comes to dumb-fire rockets, MiG-21SMT can carry S-5K 55 mm rockets and S-24 240 mm rockets. S-5K have a small warhead that is able to penetrate 150 mm of armour at 0°. However, due to their small warhead, they need a direct hit on the target in order to do any damage and even if they do connect, the damage is minimal to any armoured target. S-24, though, is a 235 kg behemoth, capable of taking out most targets with a single hit.
Usage in battles
Combining its ability to pull high angle-of-attack on demand, excellent acceleration, high top speed and powerful dogfighting weaponry, MiG-21SMT is a potent air superiority dogfighter/interceptor. It allows the pilot to intercept any target, quickly get on its back and stay there, while also giving the user a safety net in the shape of its acceleration that enables it to break from any engagement with ease. It is recommended to stay at low altitude and not use full elevator if not in a dogfight. For air-to-air combat, the 4 x R-60 setup is the most versatile, albeit the 2 x R-60 and 2 x R-3R setup will allow you to get the most out of head-on scenario. If going for the latter option, make sure to create a keybind to switch between the different missiles using the Weapons selector mechanic. Overall, the MiG-21SMT is a versatile plane adaptable to any playstyle.
Enemies worth noting
- F-4E/EJ - Most common enemy, their potent missile armament is something to be feared but the SMT will beat it in a dogfight. F-4Cs, FGR.2s, and FG.1s are effectively the same plane with different missiles.
- Mirage IIIC - High priority targets, their missiles are nearly undodgeable. The SMT can win a dogfight, but it is a 50/50 chance and depends on pilot skill and crew.
- J35D - Effectively the only plane that can outmanoeuvre an SMT, it is best to target them when they are distracted.
Radars
The MiG-21SMT is equipped with a RP-21 Sapfir search and tracking radar. The radar is mounted in the nose of the aircraft.
RP-21 - Target Detection Radar | |||
---|---|---|---|
Maximum Detection Range |
Guaranteed Detection Range |
Max Azimuth Scan Angle |
Max Elevation Scan Angle |
30,000 m (theoretical) |
20,000 m | ±30.0° | -3.0°/+17.0° |
RP-21 - Target Tracking Radar | |||
Maximum Tracking Range |
Minimum Tracking Range |
Azimuth Tracking Angle |
Elevation Tracking Angle |
20,000 m | 300 m | ±30.0° | ±17.0° |
Pros and cons
Pros:
- High thrust-to-weight ratio
- Excellent acceleration from 1,000 - 1,200 km/h
- Excellent rate of climb, can maintain mach 1+ at 30 degrees
- R-60 missile is tied as the highest G loading missile in-game (can lock on in most side aspect scenarios)
- Only in game version of the MiG-21, alongside the MiG-21bis, capable of being equipped with a radar missile, that being the R-3R
- Maintains speed and energy in turns better than the MiG-21F-13
- Its RP-22SM radar has high tracking range
- Much higher rate of fire than earlier cannon-armed Soviet jets
- Has a radar-warning-receiver (RWR)
- Can perform a cobra with full real controls
Cons:
- GSh-23L cannon is mounted oddly and has poor ballistics
- Less agile than other MiG-21 variants
- Using afterburner on the deck can overspeed the aircraft even in a slight climb
- Like the 21F before it, takes damage poorly
- The SMT variant has a significantly increased chance of breakup above the redline compared to the F-13 (Do not linger above redline at all if possible)
- Radar is of shorter detection range than most competitors
History
The MiG-21 was a supersonic interceptor aircraft designed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau (Mikoyan OKB) located in the Soviet Union. The development of the aircraft began in early 1950's, when Mikoyan OKB finished their first design of the aircraft designated as Ye-1. However, the prototype was quickly determined to be too under-powered, and led to the a redesign of the aircraft, designated Ye-2. Both of these aircraft and the prototype to follow had swept back wings, such as those found on the MiG-15. The first prototype to have the signature delta wings of the MiG-21 was the Ye-4. The aircraft made it's maiden flight on June 16th, 1955, and made its first public appearance during the Soviet Aviation Display at Moscow's Tushino Airfield in July 1956. The MiG 21 became the Soviet Unions first successful fighter and interceptor aircraft, it was lightweight, and had a powerful afterburner, allowing it to reach speeds of up to Mach 2, and was comparable to the French Dassault Mirage III, and American Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter and Lockheed F-104 Starfighter at the time. However, the aircraft had a short range, which was worsened by the poor placement of its fuel tanks. Due to this, the development of the MiG-21 SMT began. The SMT variant of the MiG-21 contained more fuel tanks in the spine of the aircraft, which resulted in the aircraft being hard to fly as a result of the enlarged spine. The fuel tank however, did give the aircraft an increased range of up to 250 km (155 mi). The SMT variant also had an electronic countermeasures capability. The MiG-21 SMT is no longer in service.
Media
- Skins
- Videos
See also
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" · 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-25 · Su-25BM · Su-25K · Su-25T · Su-25SM3 · Su-39 | |
Su-27 | |
Ilyushin | IL-28 · IL-28Sh |
Tupolev | Tu-14T |