 On 5 October 1982, Mirages escorting an English Electric Canberra on routine reconnaissance over Cahama were engaged by at least two MiG-21bis.A South African radar operator picked up the attacking MiGs and was able to alert the Mirage pilots in advance, instructing them to change course immediately.As they jettisoned their auxiliary tanks, however, they were pinpointed by the Cubans, who opened pursuit.