Airman Pulse

A weekly podcast featuring analysis of issues critical to Airmen with experts currently serving in and retired from the U.S. Air Force.

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The Life of an American MiG Pilot

Airman Pulse
Rob Zettel and Patrick McSpadden
May 20, 2026

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Episode Notes:

Rob "Z-Man" Zettel, former American MiG Pilot, recounts his journey from pilot training to flying Soviet MiGs in the Red Eagles. He details his first flight in a MiG-21, the unique challenges of flying the aircraft, and the camaraderie and expertise within the Red Eagles squadron.

You can find Rob's new book here.

Image: Rob Zettel