20 July 2003
MiG-21bis
Finnish and Soviet MiG-21bis flying a ‘friendship’ flight over the frontier sometime during the Cold War. MiG-21bis fighters were purchased for Finnish Air Force between 1978 and 1986 and they replaced aging MiG-21F-13 fighters dating back to 1963. In March 1998 last MiG-21bis fighters were pulled from FAF service as they were retired along with Saab 35J Drakens, both types being replaced by the versatile F-18C Hornet. MiG-21bis is capable of reaching Mach 2. Typical armament includes GSh-23 cannon, rockets and AA missiles.