The MiG-29 is a twin-engine supersonic fourth generation air superiority jet fighter developed in the Soviet Union in the 1970’s. The aircraft entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1983 and still is in use with them as well as equipping over twenty four other countries over the years. The NATO designation for the MiG-29 is Fulcrum and it was designed to counter the American F-16 and F-18. The MiG-29 was first seen in the West in 1986. The MiG-29 (9-13) is designated the Fulcrum C.
The original plan called for Cuba to purchase 35 – 45 jet fighters for their Cuban Revolutionary Air Force/DAAFAR that would be enough to equip a regiment but because of Soviet economic hard times they were forced to settle for twelve MiG-29A Fulcrums and two dual-seat MiG-29UB “Fulcrum Bs). The aircraft arrived in October 1989 and after assembly were test flown on April 19, 1990. The aircraft is painted in the standard Soviet light grey and grey-green camouflage pattern. In 1997 this aircraft was based with 231st Fighter Sqn., “Playa Giron” Guard Brigade, Cuban Revolutionary A.F.; San Julian A.B.