The old MiG-21 still formed the backbone of both the Soviet and Afghan air forces in the early 1980s. Although originally designed as a point defence interceptor, it was simple to maintain and easy to fly, and relatively adaptable, which is why both air forces deployed it as a fighter-bomber armed with free-fall bombs and unguided rockets, as well. Early on during the Soviet military intervention in Afghanistan, the 115th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment was deployed to Bagram Air Base, to stand quick reaction alert and fly escort for vulnerable transport aircraft. However, before long, the MiG-21bis of this unit were armed with free-fall bombs like FAB-250M-62s (inboard pylon) and RBK-250s (outboard pylon) and joined other types in the battle against the Mujahideen. Eventually, MiG-21s flew more combat sorties than any other aircraft type deployed in this war. (Artwork by Tom Cooper)