‘Alvida, MiG-21’: India bids adieu to the iconic Fighter Jet after 62 years in service

MiG 21's Farewell:Today, September 26th, the Indian Air Force's longest-serving and most famous fighter aircraft, the MiG-21, is retiring. This aircraft maintained India's air dominance for decades and played a key role in the 1965, 1971, and 1999 wars against Pakistan. Even in its final days, the MiG-21 targeted a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet in Balakot.

India's First Supersonic Jet

The MiG-21 was the Soviet Union (now Russia) aircraft, which was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963. It was India's first supersonic jet, that is, it could fly faster than the speed of sound. At that time this aircraft was considered a symbol of Indian aerial strength.

MiG-21 bison and new technology

Over time, MiG-21 became old. Its upgraded version MiG-21 Bison added new radar, missile system and helmet-mounted sites. Retired commander Avinash Chikte explains, "Looked for the first time in 1982. Its beautiful and conical design fascinated at first sight, but was also afraid to blow."

MiG-21's Contribution in Wars

• 1965 War: Challenged the Pakistan Air Force.
• 1971 War: Conducted an accurate attack in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
• 1999 Kargil War: At night, attacked with the help of GPS.
• Balakot Strike 2019: Group Captain Abhinandan Vardhman killed an F-16 with a MiG-21 Bison.
• 2025 Operation Sindoor: The last major mission in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack.

Who will replace the MiG-21?

Now Swadeshi Tejas will be used for MK 1A instead of the MiG-21. It has been created by HAL and the Aeronautical Development Agency. Tejas will be deployed with modern missiles such as Astra-1 and other defense equipment.

Why the name "Flying Coffin"?

The record of the MiG-21 was excellent, but the accidents also gave it the name of 'Flying Coffin.' In the last 60 years, there were more than 400 crashes, in which more than 200 pilots lost their lives. Outdated designs, maintenance difficulties, and sometimes pilot error were the reasons for this.

Tejas Delays

Deliveries of the Tejas are being delayed due to engine and testing issues. Two engines are expected to arrive every month until March 2026. After this, the Air Force will gradually shift the charge of MiG-21 to Tejas.

The MiG-21 served the Indian Air Force for nearly six decades. It has been a symbol of pride and courage for many pilots, not just an aircraft.