Replies

There also was at least one Libyan Arab Revolutionary Aiir Force MiG-25 that approached too close to a US carrier group in about 1986. I believe that it was destroyed by an AIM-7 fired by an F-14, but I'd have to hit the books to be sure.

In a separate incident, a Libyan Su-22 was shot down. It was the same day, or the same week. I believe both pilots perished. They may have ejected but the US could not find them and the Libyans, of course, have no SAR capability to speak of. Flying feet wet is a brave thing for those guys to do, but I suppose they are young and immortal.

Ejection from the MiG-25, especially at speed/altitude, is problematic. Most of the incidents I know of the crews do not survive.

Speaking of Iran and F-14s, though, it's quite amazing that the IIRAF has kept them flying. Especially considering how hard the Air Force was purged after the revolution. A testimony to Iranian ingenuity (and perhaps, to American cupidity).

d.o.l.

Criminal Number 18F