Soviet MiG-25 NATO Code Name“Foxbat” was a high-speed interceptor and reconnaissance aircraft that entered the Soviet Air Force in 1970. it is Capable of reaching Mach 2.83, it features a powerful radar and carries up to four air-to-air missiles.
The aircraft’s true capabilities became known to the world in 1976 when Soviet pilot Viktor Belenko turning off his radio and defected to Japan in a MiG-25.
Analysis revealed a rugged, practical design using vacuum-tube electronics, two large turbojet engines, and limited amounts of advanced materials.
MiG 25 foxbat exported to middle eastern countries and served with several air forces, including Iraq’s, which began operating the type in 1980 during the Iran-Iraq War.
The MiG-25RB on exhibit was discovered in 2003 by U.S. forces near Al Taqaddum Airbase, about couple hunderd of km west of Baghdad, after being buried in the underground to prevent its destruction during US Invasion of Iraq. Recovered without its wings and with its vertical stabilizers removed for transport.
