Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15 (Ji-2) FAGOT B
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Arch rival to the U.S. F-86 in Korea, the MiG-15 shocked the West with its capabilities. The Soviets designed the aircraft in 1946 to answer an urgent need for a high-altitude day interceptor. It first flew in late 1947. The MiG-15 was the first Soviet jet to benefit from the British sale to Russia of the new Rolls Royce Nene and Derwent jet engines, which the Soviets immediately copied and refined. The resulting RD-500, Klimov RD-45, and modified VK-1 engines gave a powerful boost to Soviet jet technology.
The MiG-15 featured the first production swept wing, pressurized cockpit, and ejection seat on a Soviet aircraft. Although Mikoyan and Gurevich were aware of German turbojet and swept-wing work, this design was wholly Russian, except for the engine. This MiG-15bis is a Chinese Ji-2 modification. The Smithsonian acquired it in 1985.
Display Status
This object is on display in Korea and Vietnam Aviation at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Date
1947
Country of Origin
China
Type
CRAFT-Aircraft
Manufacturer
Mikoyan-Gurevich
Physical Description
Single-seat, single-engine (RD-500, Klimov RD-45, and modified VK-1), swept-wing, air superiority, jet fighter / interceptor.
Dimensions
Overall: 11ft 2in., 8819.9lb. (3.404m, 4000.7kg)
Other: 11ft 2in. x 36ft 3 1/4in. x 33ft 15/16in. (3.404m x 11.056m x 10.083m)
Materials
Natural metal, People's Republic of China (PRC) markings.
Inventory Number
A19860066000
Credit Line
Transferred from the United States Air Force.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Open Access (CCO)
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