Chengdu J-10 vs MiG-21: how to tell them apart

Two combat aircraft that are easy to mix up at a glance. Here is what tells them apart.

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Chengdu J-10

Combat aircraft, China. In service since 2004

What gives it away

Single-engine delta-canard fighter with a large chin intake under the cockpit and a single fin.

Used by

China, Pakistan

MiG-21

Combat aircraft, Soviet Union. In service since 1959

What gives it away

Small delta-winged fighter with a round nose intake holding a shock cone, a thin fuselage and a tall swept fin.

Used by

North Korea and a few others; most users, including India (2025), retired

Chengdu J-10 · MiG-21 · All guides