Vintage Original B&W Photo, the 806th Fighter Bomber Air Regiment in Mongolia and Soviet-Iranian border in 1979

The new Su-17M2 “Fitter-D” tactical bomber aircraft was to be tested at Lutsk Airport by the Soviet Air Force. The 806th Fighter Bomber Air Regiment technical personnel visited the Komsomolsk Na Amure facility. The workers was unhappy because, regrettably, there was just theoretical training provided in the factory. In October 1975, the first brand-new Su-17M2 “Fitter-D” plane touched down at Lutsk airfield. Later, in January 1976, thirteen further aircraft arrived from the factory, carrying An-22 freight planes. The new plane was beset with numerous technical issues. In 1979, the 806th Fighter Bomber Air Regiment was extremely active, participating in two significant missions using Su-17M2 “Fitter-D” bomber aircraft. The Chinese People’s Liberation Army launched an invasion on Vietnam on February 17, 1979. In order to support Vietnam, the Soviet Union dispatched reinforcements to Mongolia near the Chinese border. Additionally, the 806th Fighter Bomber Air Regiment relocated to Mongolia in order to demonstrate to China the might of the Soviet Union. On February 18, the alert reached the regiment. They gathered tools, maps, and operating aircraft. The pilots created maps and plotted routes. After the equipment was placed aboard the Antonov An-12 “Cub,” 48 Su-17M2/UM “Fitter” aircraft took out from Lutsk airport on March 16. Mongolia welcomed the 806th Fighter Bomber Air Regiment.

• Size: 390x280mm
• Year: 1979

Very Good Condition: This photograph is in very good condition, showing only slight signs of age and use. Minimal corner wear, very light fading or a few light scratches might be present but don’t detract from the overall appeal. This photograph is marked with the stamp “N° 1060 Archives association FRANCE URSS – 30 JANVIER 1978,” signifying its association with the Archives association France-URSS. Founded in 1945, this association aimed to foster cooperation and understanding between France and the Soviet Union. This photograph holds historical significance in the context of France-USSR relations.