Indian Air Force Retires Iconic MiG-21 Fighter Jets After 62 Years of Service
Farewell ceremony in Chandigarh marks the end of an era as MiG-21s take to the skies one last time.
Chandigarh, Sep 26: The Indian Air Force (IAF) bid a poignant farewell to its legendary MiG-21 fighter jets today, marking the end of an era. The Russian origin aircraft, first inducted in 1963, have served the IAF for over six decades, shaping India’s air combat capabilities.
The decommissioning ceremony at Chandigarh Air Force Station was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and senior IAF officials. As part of the farewell, MiG-21s performed their final sorties in a Vic formation, showcasing the skill and precision of the pilots. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh flew one of the last missions with the call sign ‘Badal 3’.
The retired jets belonged to the number 23 Squadron, affectionately known as the “Panthers,” which has been instrumental in numerous critical operations throughout the IAF’s history. Their retirement symbolizes the transition of India’s air force into a modern era, with next-generation aircraft like the Tejas taking over the mantle.
The MiG-21, often called the backbone of the IAF for decades, played key roles in wars and operations, including the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak conflicts and high-altitude missions in the Kargil war. Its retirement closes a remarkable chapter in India’s aviation history while paving the way for a technologically advanced future.
