Based on the MiG-21SM, a simplified export version MiG-21M was developed, with the engine, radar, and missile armament from the PFM version. It was powered by the improved R-11F2S-300 engine with a continuously variable nozzle.
The RP-21MA radar gunsight used in this version also had weaker capabilities than the RP-22, but it could guide the Ch-66 guided missile for engaging ground targets (the RP-22 was not adapted for this purpose).
A small number of these aircraft were adapted to carry nuclear weapons. The MiG-21M was manufactured between 1968 and 1971; in 1971, India purchased the production licence.
Between 1969 and 1970, Poland purchased 36 MiG-21M aircraft. The MiG-21M serial number 962003 left the assembly line on 27 December 1969. On 29 January 1970, it was delivered to the Polish military aviation. It began its service with the 41st Fighter Aviation Regiment in Malbork. At the end of 1973, it was transferred to the 9th Fighter Aviation Regiment in Debrzno.
In September 1989, it was assigned to the 2nd Fighter Aviation Regiment in Goleniow, and four years later to the 1st Fighter Aviation Regiment in Minsk Mazowiecki. In May 1995, the aircraft received its last combat assignment — to the 10th Fighter Aviation Regiment in Lask. Aircraft side number ‘2003’ made its last flight in December 1998, and in 2000 it was transferred to the Polish Aviation Museum.
| Wingspan | 7.15 m |
| Length | 14.1 m |
| Takeoff weight | 8950 kg |
| Maximum speed | 2230 km/h |
| Ceiling | 17300 m |
| Range | 1050 km |
| Armament | Gsz-23 cannon, 4 R-3S, R-3R or R-60 missiles, rocket launchers or bombs |
| Engine | turbojet R-11F2S-300 with thrust of 6175 kG |
