Mossad’s Daring Heist: The Secret Stealing of the MiG-21

In a remarkable intelligence operation, Israel’s Mossad successfully stole a MiG-21 fighter jet from Iraq on August 16, 1966. This daring mission not only showcased the agency’s operational prowess but also sent a clear message regarding Israel’s security concerns amid growing threats from neighboring countries supplied with advanced Soviet weaponry.

Context of the Operation

The MiG-21 was a significant upgrade from the earlier MiG-19, and its deployment to nations such as Egypt, Lebanon, and Iraq heightened tensions in the region. The Soviet Union had provided these aircraft as part of its strategy to bolster its allies against Israel. Faced with this escalating threat, Mossad recognized the urgent need to counteract the military capabilities being developed in neighboring countries.

Under the leadership of Meir Amit, Mossad began strategizing the acquisition of a MiG-21. The operation, codenamed ‘Operation Diamond’, aimed to not only secure the aircraft but also to demonstrate Israel’s intelligence capabilities. Initial attempts to secure the jet were unsuccessful, prompting the agency to reassess its approach.

The Turning Point

The shift in strategy led Mossad to focus on individuals involved with the MiG-21. The key to success was found in Munir Redfa, an Iraqi pilot disillusioned by his government’s policies and stagnation in career advancement. A female Mossad agent played a pivotal role in gaining his trust, offering him a lucrative package that included $1 million, a stable job in Israel, and housing for his family.

Redfa’s agreement was a significant breakthrough for Mossad. On the day of the operation, he successfully flew the MiG-21 out of Iraq, marking the culmination of months of planning and negotiation. This bold act not only secured a powerful asset for Israel but also became a legendary tale in the annals of intelligence history.

The successful retrieval of the MiG-21 highlighted not only the operational capabilities of Mossad but also its willingness to take considerable risks. The operation is celebrated for its combination of strategy and audacity, reinforcing Israel’s position in a volatile geopolitical landscape.

Today, ‘Operation Diamond’ remains a testament to the lengths to which intelligence agencies will go to protect national interests and the intricate dynamics of international relations during the Cold War era.