The MiG-21 was conceived by the Soviet Union as their first operational fighter capable of speeds in excess of Mach 2. Though appearing simple in design, it was in reality a highly sophisticated aircraft and a serious threat to comparable western fighters. Even by contemporary standards, the MiG-21 remains an excellent air combat platform. New and refined updates to the MiG-21 area major business in the world arms community.
It was produced originally for the Korean War as a light, single seat target defense interceptor with high supersonic maneuverability. The initial versions (Fishbed-A and Fishbed-B) were built only in limited numbers but the next variant (Fishbed-C) carried two K-13 Atoll infrared homing anti-aircraft missiles, improved avionics and an upgraded turbojet. In Vietnam, the MiG-21 was the Americans' deadliest opponent. Over 10,000 MiG-21s were built in the Soviet Union with an additional 2,000 built under license in China, India and Czechoslovakia.
The Museum's MiG-21PF is a Czech Air Force aircraft equipped for air-intercept/point defense work.

It arrived at Forbes Field on November 8, 2007 on loan from the Museum of Flight in Seattle