Something else to keep in mind in the future too...

Pit Weinert from ACIG.info has reviewed all the videos he could find on the internet that were taken at recently captured Tabqa AB, in northern Syria. As should be known, this was overrun by the ISIS in August. Pit came out with following numbers of aircraft captured there:

- 1 MiG-21bis
- 11 MiG-21MF
- 1 MiG-21M (probable M; if so, then ex-East German example; if not, then another MF)
- 10 MiG-21UM

Note: it is possible that additional examples are around, then Google Earth photos are showing more MiG-21s around Tabqa than these 23.

Obviously, most of are derelict and there is no chance of them ever being returned to service - at least not without really a complete rebuilt and replacement of most important parts.

But, there is some uncertainty about the exact status of at least the above-mentioned bis. Plus, a photo surfaced of an 'extra' MiG-21U-400, supposedly taken inside one of maintenance hangars at Tabqa, and showing it as captured while still in a very advanced state of overhaul...

So, theoretically - and provided they might ever find enough personnel with the necessary knowledge and experience, plus enough spares and weapons (the latter should be possible) - the ISIS might now be able to make at least 1, perhaps even two MiG-21s airborne.