Preview: The 48th scale MiG-21MF from Rye Field Model

Ryefield Model has released a set of CAD images for their upcoming 1/48th-scale new-tool MiG‑21MF. See what we found from the CADs in our preview...

Preview: The 48th scale MiG-21MF from Rye Field Model

Mikoyan‑Gurevich MiG‑21MF 

From Rye Field Model

1/48th scale

Plastic kit with additional 3D-printed resin parts. 

Kit no #6001

Expected 2nd/3rd Quarter 2026

The product link on the Rye Field Models website

The subject: The MiG-21MF

The Mikoyan‑Gurevich MiG‑21MF was one of the most significant mid‑production developments of the famous MiG‑21 “Fishbed” family. Introduced in the late 1960s, the MF variant featured a more powerful R‑13 engine compared to earlier models, improving overall performance while retaining the aircraft’s lightweight, delta‑wing design. This version was intended to standardise capabilities for both Soviet service and export customers, making it one of the most widely produced and operated variants.

A well-known photo of two Eastern-bloc MiG-21MF Fishbed-J fighters in tight formation.

Externally, the MiG‑21MF retained the classic sharp‑nosed intake with a central shock cone, cropped delta wings, and a tall vertical fin that define the Fishbed’s unmistakable silhouette. It was capable of carrying a range of air-to-air missiles, external fuel tanks, and limited ground-attack stores, reflecting its multi-role use as an interceptor and fighter-bomber. Subtle differences in panels, antennae, and equipment fit could be found depending on production batch and operator, which has made the MF a particularly interesting subject for historians and modellers alike.

A MiG-21MF of the Cuban Revolutionary Air Force showing its underwing stores configuration.

In service, the MiG‑21MF proved to be reliable, simple to maintain, and adaptable to a wide variety of environments. It served with air forces across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, often remaining in frontline use well into the 1990s and beyond. Its long operational life and global reach have cemented the MiG‑21MF’s reputation as one of the most important Cold War jet fighters and a key chapter in the story of Soviet military aviation.

An East German Air Force #687 MiG-21MF just before they were retired in 1990.

This kit from Rye Field Model:

We do not have any pictures of the kit so far, but we do have several CAD illustrations of Ryefield Model’s upcoming 1/48 scale MiG‑21MF (kit no. 6001) and some information on its features.

From the CAD images, the Ryefield Model 1/48 MiG‑21MF includes:

Fully detailed external surface with recessed panel lines and rivets

Multiple optional external panels and posable flying surfaces

Openable internal bays with structural detail

Detailed cockpit and boxed wheel bays

External stores and pylons – both air-to-air and air-to-ground stores included.

A separately shown 3D‑printed KM-1 ejection seat and wheels for the kite are included

That is all we have about this kit so far – you can see more on the Rye Field website and their Facebook page...