Characteristics:

A4-format , 192 pages, 340 pictures ( including  40 en b/w), text en Finnish and English.

 The Mig-21 is most often associated with East block and middle East Air Forces. This is true, but one can’t forget that Finland was one other operator, of course not well known of the other  mythical delta fighter in the 60’s. Ironically, only some years after the Second World war against USSR, that’s this manufacturer which was chosen to equip this AF with the first very fast and modern jet fighter of their history. Jyrki Laukkanen, pilot from 1966 to 2002 ended his career at the flying test center with more than 9000 log hours, including 1285 on Mig. His passion for the photo allows us today to have access to superb shots on the types  which have flown in the FAF. This book does not claim to be THE reference on the Mig-21, but it shows them in action in the big North. The introduction in the twenty-eight first pages recalls the different versions (with legends of the photos in English and a simple summary in one page). The next chapter deals with the progressive approach of the Finns in the search for jet aircrafts, which start with 15 DH. Vampire MK52 and T-55, followed by 12 FOLLAND GNAT.

The « Russian » era began in 1962 with the supply contract of Mig-21F-13, the training courses started in Russia on MIG-15 UTI and Mig-17 two seaters. 4 MIG-15 UTI were used from 1962 to 1977, and nine pages are devoted to this short trainer in pictures with a good and rare description of a typical flight. The Mig-21 in service from 1963 to 1998 included two types, the single-seater MIG-21-F-13, MIG-21BIS and the training two-seaters MIG-21 U and MIG-21 UM. The 132 last pages describe the evolutions, the procedures, the maintenance, in summary the daily job, illustrated with a lot of beautiful color pictures (with exceptional metallic’s F-13 ones in pure blue sky) taken on the ground and in flight, in all seasons on wooded or snowy backgrounds. Each of the 54 Mig are next displayed with two pictures each (left and right) with an evolution in camouflage and the markings when available. Even without color profiles and scale drawing plans, this beautiful book will please the modellers who will find ideas for their kits, Mig-21 and of Finnish Air Force fans. Recommended without reserves.  JPP

March 2005

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