[2020] [Development] MiG-21 PFM

MiG-21 PFM, Rank VI, USSR, Event

This vehicle will be the exclusive award in the “Operation W.I.N.T.E.R.” event.

During the modernization of the second generation of MiG-21 fighters, the Soviet military authorities demanded the design team to modify the aircraft for takeoff and landing from unpaved airfields. As a solution, the engineers proposed equipping the aircraft with a system for blowing the boundary layer from the flaps, and the Tumansky and Metskhvarishvili design bureau began developing a version of the R11F-300 engine with an air stream from the compressor. The boundary layer blowing system significantly improved the take-off and landing characteristics of the aircraft, the takeoff and run lengths were reduced, and the landing speed drastically reduced.

Along with other modifications and improvements, the serial modification of the MiG-21 with the boundary layer blowing system began to be produced under the MiG-21 PFS index, later upgraded to the MiG-21 PFM version. Aircraft of this modification were produced in fairly large numbers since 1964, both for domestic use and export. The MiG-21 PFM served in Vietnam and Afghanistan.

In War Thunder, the MiG-21 PFM is a further development of the F-13 version. Offensive armament was dismantled, since it seemed to have finally lost its relevance in modern air combat. Nonetheless, the fighter could be equipped with a double-barreled cannon pod in the ventral container. The MiG-21 PFM has a radar, carries rockets and bombs, as well as two guided missiles of different models - air-to-air R-3S, or the new to the game H-66 air-to-surface missiles. A distinctive feature of the MiG-21 PFM is the boundary layer blowing system, which greatly simplifies takeoff and landing. Otherwise, it is the same magnificent MiG-21, with an excellent climb rate, great speed, easy controls and a good choice of weaponry for any game task.

The MiG-21 PFM will become yours for completing the tasks of the in-game event “Operation W.I.N.T.E.R.”, and it will be worth your efforts!

The War Thunder Team