India’s air power outnumbers Pakistan’s

The reason why more modern jets were not used is that the area of intrusion was closest to the MiG-21 base.

How The MiG-21 Chased The F-16

Pakistan Air Force sent 10 F-16s from three airbases towards the Naushera sector in India. 

Target was to engage Indian Brigade HQ and Army installations. 

Indian Air Force scrambled jets to take on incoming fighters, two MiG-21s sent from Srinagar; Su-30MKIs went airborne. 


MiG-21 Bison managed to reach the spot in time to intercept one F-16D with its R73 short-range missile. 

The F-16D with two pilots got hit and two pilots ejected within Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. 

MiG-21 Bison crashed across the border, pilot detained by Pakistan. 

Why MiG-21 Engaged F-16

The taking down of a modern F-16 with the relatively old MiG-21 Bison is an unusual feat in aerial combat. 

MiG-21s, the quick-reaction jets, was based at the nearest airfield to the intrusion location, which is Srinagar. The jets armed with R73 short-range missiles reached the target zone fast to engage with the retreating Pakistani F-16s. 


The reason why more modern jets were not used is that the area of intrusion was closest to the MiG-21 base. 

In 1971 war, MiG-21 brought down Pakistani F104 Starfighters. 

India’s air power outnumbers Pakistan’s