Hobby Master 1/72 Vietnamese People’s Air Force Mikoyan Mig-21PFM 6173 (HA0109)

The Mikoyan-Gurevich Mig-21 is the world most widely used supersonic fighter which has been used by over 30 countries and 56 air forces. It is the most produced aircraft since World War II with an estimation of over 10,000 in the Soviet Union alone. The Mig-21 has a top speed of Mach 2 and has proven to be an effective and easy to maintain aircraft in many conflicts. It first achieved renown in the Vietnam War where it posed itself a challenging adversary for more technological advanced aircrafts like the F-105 and F-4 Phantom. The Mig-21 is certainly one of the most famous aircrafts in the world for all times.

The 927th “Lam Son” Fighter Regiment was activated on February 3, 1972 comprised of the 3rd and 9th squadrons equipped with MiG-21PFMs. Operating north of the 20th Parallel it was to support the 921st and 923rd Flight Regiments. The first CO was ace Major Nguyen Hong Nhi with 8 victories. MiG-21PFM 6173 764801240 joined the VPAF in 1979 as a replacement for a previously lost MiG-21PFM. It came painted in Soviet camo colours and was repainted with Vietnamese camo scheme, national insignia and a red 6173. MiG-21PFMs beginning with 6### never saw action in the War.