The Syrian Arab Air Force was established in early 1950's. In 1962-63 the first F-13 MiG-21's began to arrive. By 1973 Syria had an air force with over 100 MiG-21 aircraft equipping 10 squadrons. On October 6, 1973, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar Syria and Egypt launched a surprise attack against Israel with the hopes of taking back the territory they lost to Israel in 1967 during the 6-Day War. This conflict lasted until October 25, 1973 when a truce was reached. The MiG-21FL is a downgraded variant of the MiG-21PF and meant for the Third World market. It is has the lesser powerful R11F-300 engine. This variant also lacks the ability to carry RS-2US beam-riding missiles and has the basic version of the RP-21 radar. The FL has a wide chord fin as well as a brake chute fairing.
Designed as a successor to the Soviet Union's family of early MiG jet fighters, the MiG-21 was first flown on Febru ary 14, 1955. This supersonic jet fighter was the first Soviet aircraft to successfully combine fighter and interceptor characteristics. Its delta wing design gave it the ability to climb quickly and its light loading further improved its performance, making it possible for a skilled pilot to successfully engage in dogfights with contemporary enemy fighters. Today, more than 50 years after its introduction, the MiG-21 still serves the air forces of many nations and has become the most-produced supersonic jet in history.
