“Needle-Nosed Warrior Bows Out: MiG-21 Decommissioned After 62 Years”

MiG-21 Symbolises India-Russia Ties, Says Rajnath Singh at Fighter’s Farewell.

Chandigarh: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday attended the decommissioning ceremony of the MiG-21 fighter aircraft at Chandigarh Air Force Station, marking the end of more than six decades of service of the iconic jet in the Indian Air Force.

Calling the MiG-21 “not just an aircraft but a symbol of India-Russia friendship,” Singh said the jet had been a pillar of India’s air power since its induction in the 1960s. He recalled its crucial role in the 1971 war, the 1999 Kargil conflict, and the 2019 Balakot operation, saying the aircraft upheld the honour of the tricolour in many decisive battles.

The farewell ceremony saw a final sortie by Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh in a three-aircraft “Badal” formation, along with aerial displays by MiG-21s, Jaguars, Tejas and the Surya Kiran aerobatic team. The IAF’s “Akash Ganga” skydiving team also performed during the event.

The MiG-21, often described as the backbone of the IAF for decades, was inducted in 1963. More than 870 aircraft of different versions were procured, making it one of the most numerous fighters in India’s history. However, in recent years, the jet had faced criticism for crashes and aging technology, earning the nickname “flying coffin.”

With the MiG-21’s retirement, the IAF will now focus on strengthening its fleet with aircraft like the indigenous LCA Tejas, along with Su-30 MKI, Rafale and other platforms.