A military MiG jet flew over the city of Sancti Spíritus on Wednesday for approximately 15 minutes before landing at the local airport, capturing the attention of local residents.
In a message sent to the editorial team of Cibercuba, an individual explained that the aircraft performed high-speed maneuvers, sparking various speculations since no official media have provided information on the matter. The reason behind the flight and its purpose remain unclear, further fueling public curiosity and debate, especially as the date of July 11 (11J) approaches—a significant date for Cubans who yearn for the end of the communist dictatorship.
Speculations and Public Curiosity
The source noted the unusual nature of seeing a military jet in action over a city, raising an intriguing question for the community: "How much does it cost to maintain a MiG jet for each hour of flight?" The message also included several images of the aircraft's activity over the central Cuban province.
Event Details:
Date: July 10, 2024.
Time: Approximately 9:30 am.
Location: City of Sancti Spíritus, landing at the local airport.
The acronym MiG refers to any member of a family of Soviet military fighter jets produced by a design bureau founded in 1939 by Artem Mikoyan (M) and Mikhail Gurevich (G). The "i" in MiG becomes "y" in the Russian language.
According to a historical article published in Okdiario, one of the most iconic models is the MiG-15, used by the Soviet Air Force during the Korean War. With over 18,000 units produced, the MiG-15 earned a formidable reputation and became the most produced combat aircraft of all time.
Over the years, MiG aircraft have evolved and adapted to technological advancements. The latest models, such as the MiG-35, feature advanced systems and the capability to carry a wide variety of weapons.
Despite their success and global recognition, MiG jets have faced numerous challenges. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 had a significant impact on the Russian aerospace industry, including the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau.
Economic difficulties led to a reduction in production. However, the company managed to adapt to changes and continue developing cutting-edge combat aircraft, which are currently used by several air forces around the world, the publication notes.
Continued Military Operations Amid Economic Crisis
This flyover of a MiG in Sancti Spíritus not only highlights the ongoing operational capabilities of these aircraft but also underscores the military spending of the regime despite the prevailing economic crisis in the country.
In April, the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) identified the individuals who died in an air accident involving a military helicopter in Santiago de Cuba.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours, resulted in the deaths of three individuals: Major Dairon González Espinosa, First Lieutenant Carlos Enrique Frómeta Rodríguez, and Second Lieutenant Yunier Céspedes Escalona, according to MINFAR. The official statement noted that "in the early hours of April 11, 2024, a helicopter accident occurred during a mission in the interest of the Revolutionary Armed Forces, causing it to crash at the Antonio Maceo Grajales International Airport in Santiago de Cuba."
Questions About the MiG Flyover in Sancti Spíritus
The unexpected flyover of a military MiG jet in Sancti Spíritus has raised several questions among the public. Here are some of the key inquiries and their answers:
Why did the MiG jet fly over Sancti Spíritus?
The purpose of the MiG jet's flyover remains unclear, as no official statements have been made by the authorities.
How long did the MiG jet stay in the air over Sancti Spíritus?
The MiG jet flew over the city for approximately 15 minutes before landing at the local airport.
What sparked public curiosity about the MiG jet?
Public curiosity was sparked by the high-speed maneuvers performed by the jet and the lack of information from official media, leading to various speculations.
What are the historical significance and capabilities of MiG jets?
MiG jets, such as the iconic MiG-15 used during the Korean War, have a long history of technological advancements and significant operational capabilities.