India Bids Farewell to the Iconic MiG-21 Fighter Jet

India officially said goodbye to one of its most iconic fighter aircraft — the MiG-21. Known for its unmatched longevity and contribution to Indian air defence, the MiG-21 was formally decommissioned at a ceremonial flypast at Air Force Station Chandigarh, where it was first inducted in 1963. The event marked the end of a 62-year era, with the No. 23 Squadron “Panthers” — the last operational unit — retiring the legendary aircraft from active duty.

A Legacy of Power and Performance

Since its induction into the Indian Air Force (IAF), the MiG-21 has symbolised India’s transition into supersonic jet warfare. The IAF eventually procured over 870 MiG-21s, making it the most numerous combat aircraft in India’s history.

Notable Operations

• 1965 & 1971 wars with Pakistan: Played frontline combat roles
• 1999 Kargil Conflict: Provided crucial air support
• 2019 Balakot Airstrikes: Engaged in a historic dogfight over the LoC

For decades, the MiG-21 was the backbone of India’s aerial combat capability, renowned for its speed, maneuverability, and agility in tight combat.

Final Flight and Decommissioning Ceremony

The final rehearsal flight took place on September 24, marking the last time a MiG-21 took to Indian skies in an operational capacity. The official decommissioning ceremony on Friday, September 26, will attended by,

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
• Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan
• Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh
• Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi
• Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi

This high-level attendance reflects the immense legacy and national pride associated with the MiG-21.

From Supersonic Pioneer to Historical Icon

• First introduced by the Soviet Union in the 1950s, the MiG-21 became India’s first supersonic fighter aircraft, significantly boosting the country’s aerial deterrence in the Cold War era.
• While more advanced aircraft like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Rafale, and Tejas LCA have since modernised the IAF, the MiG-21 held on due to its reliability, speed, and successful upgrades over the decades.
• However, in recent years, the aircraft drew criticism for frequent accidents, prompting calls for retirement and accelerated induction of next-gen fighters.

MiG-21’s End Marks Beginning of Modernisation

The retirement of the MiG-21 clears the path for full-scale modernisation of India’s combat air fleet. The IAF now focuses on expanding,

• Homegrown Tejas squadrons
• Acquisition of more Rafale jets
• Future-ready platforms under AMCA and MRFA projects

It also marks a symbolic shift from Cold War-era imports to indigenised, tech-driven air defence systems.

Static Takeaways

• First Induction: 1963 at Chandigarh Air Force Station
• Total Aircraft Procured: Over 870
• Final Flight: 24 September 2025
• Decommissioning Ceremony: 26 September 2025
• Final Squadron: No. 23 Squadron “Panthers”