Tanks and Sky-High Costs: The World's Priciest Military Wonders

NebulaCartographer Updated: 2025-07-04

6. MiG-21

Joined the Service: 1955 Producer: Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG
Price: *$25.2 million The MiG-21, engineered by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau, stands as one of the Soviet Union's most legendary fighter jets, shattering aviation records throughout its storied career. Deployed by air forces globally, including Romania, Croatia, and India, it remains an icon of military flight. Of the 11,496 MiG-21s built, 10,645 were produced by UNAC in the USSR. At a cost of about $25.2 million, the MiG-21’s unmatched speed and agility have cemented its place in the annals of aerial combat history.

MiG-21
Source: Twitter.com / Rowdy Rathore The MiG-21 holds the title of the most manufactured supersonic jet in history and is the most produced combat aircraft since the Korean War. Trailing only the F-16 and F-15, the MiG-21 boasts the third-longest production run among combat aircraft. Its ongoing use by numerous air forces worldwide underscores its enduring impact and reliability in military aviation.