One of Mossad’s boldest operations gave Israel and the West their first close look at the Soviet-built MiG-21 fighter jet.
In 1966, Israeli intelligence persuaded Iraqi Air Force pilot Munir Redfa to defect and fly his MiG-21 directly to Israel.
The aircraft was among the Soviet Union’s most advanced fighter jets and was widely used by Arab air forces. Getting one intact allowed Israeli pilots and intelligence experts to study its strengths, weaknesses and flight characteristics.
The intelligence gained from the operation helped Israel prepare its pilots to confront the MiG-21 in future wars. The aircraft was later shared with the US for evaluation, making the mission a major intelligence achievement not only for Israel, but also for the West.