Sage-Tips

Why MiG-25 was kept secret?

History of MiG-25 ‘Foxbat’- In the 1960s and 70s, USSR was facing a major threat from the high flying US bombers. These used to fly so high that no ordinary interceptor could engage them. So the Soviets developed this MiG-25 to counter them. With this, the MiG-25 was no more a secret to the world.

Does India still have MiG-25?

After 25 years of glorious service to the nation, the MiG-25’s were decommissioned on May 1, 2006. These retired aircraft are now on display at various military installations across the country such as Palam, Khadakwasla, Bareilly, Hyderabad and Kalaikunda.

Is India MiG-25 Foxbat?

The Indian Air Force inducted the MiG-25 in 1981, buying a total of just 10 aircraft from the Soviet Union. The 102 ‘Trisonics’ squadron of the Indian Air Force was the first to operate the MiG-25. The Indian Air Force has been a prolific user of aircraft of the Russian MiG design bureau, starting with the MiG-21.

Does the MiG 25 have a gun?

The missiles are suspended from four underwing pylons. It may also be fitted with two R-40 and four R-60 (AA-8 Aphid), or two R-23 (AA-Apex) and four R-73 (AA-11 Archer). The MiG-25 is not fitted with a gun.

Why is the MiG-25 called the Foxbat?

With this, the MiG-25 was no more a secret to the world. Then the USSR made it available for export to friendly nations. It was such a notorious that NATO gave it the nickname ‘Foxbat’. IAF inducted MiG-25 in its fleet in 1981. India went for the MiG-25R.

What is the history of the Indian Air Force’s MiG-25R spy plane?

India acquired around eight single seat and two twin seat Reconnaissance version of the aircraft, the Mig-25R, in 1981. To keep this plane a closely guarded secret, the IAF flew the aircraft in dismantled condition in Antonov planes to Trishul Air Base, Bareilly.

How did the Trishul Air Base help the IAF in guarding MiG-25?

The Trishul Air Base has one of the largest underground hangers in the country and hence helped the IAF in guarding the secret of Mig-25.

What are the MiG 25s stored in Indian military hangars?

MIG 25s were stored in those hangars. MIG 25 was a Soviet reconnaissance plane of cold war era. India based 8 single seat and 2 double seat aircrafts with 102 Trisonics at Baraeilly. Aircrafts were brought in dismantled state in Antonov planes.This created a perception that Antonov planes are actually being acquired by India.