From Supersonic Glory to Retirement: MiG-21’s Legacy in India
Chandigarh: After an extraordinary 63 years of service, the Indian Air Force (IAF) today bid a heartfelt farewell to the iconic MiG-21 fighter jets at a grand ceremony in Chandigarh. The event was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, and senior military officials.
A Legendary Journey in the Skies
Inducted into the IAF in 1963 following the China-India war, the MiG-21 was India’s first supersonic fighter aircraft. Over decades, it became a symbol of India’s aerial strength, playing pivotal roles in the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the Kargil conflict in 1999, and modern operations like Balakot. Its speed, agility, and combat capability earned it a legendary reputation in India’s defense history.
Despite its fame, the MiG-21 was also known as the “Flying Coffin”, due to accidents over the years. Yet, through multiple upgrades and enhancements, it remained a reliable workhorse, safeguarding the nation’s skies for generations of pilots.
#WATCH | The decommissioning ceremony of the Indian Air Force’s MIG-21 fighter aircraft fleet begins at Chandigarh Air Force station; Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, senior officers present.
MiG-21s were inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963 and will be decommissioned today… pic.twitter.com/v8NuzfqQEb
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 26, 2025
The Final Flight: Badal 3
The historic last sortie was flown by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, carrying the call sign Badal 3, symbolically closing a chapter in India’s military aviation. The decommissioning ceremony included aerial formations, water cannon salutes, and a final homage to the aircraft that had served the nation so faithfully.
Squadron Leader Priya Sharma also became the last woman pilot to fly the MiG-21, marking a historic moment and highlighting the expanding role of women in the IAF.
CULMINATION OF MIG-21 OPERATION IN IAF https://t.co/jqqywWowrY
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) September 26, 2025
Transition to Modern Airpower
With the retirement of the MiG-21, the IAF is focusing on modern fighter jets like the indigenous Tejas, French Rafale, and Russian Su-30MKI. While the transition strengthens India’s aerial capabilities, the retirement leaves behind a void in operational squadrons, emphasizing the continued need for fleet expansion and modernization.
A Legacy That Soars
The MiG-21 is more than a fighter jet; it is a symbol of resilience, courage, and national pride. Its legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Indian aviators, and its roar will echo forever in the skies of India.
