Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday paid tribute to the MiG-21, describing it as far more than just an aircraft but a testament to the deep ties between India and Russia.
Speaking at the decommissioning ceremony of the iconic Russian-origin fighter jet at Chandigarh Air Force Station, Singh lauded the MiG-21 as a “mighty machine, national pride and defence shield” that bolstered India’s confidence and inspired generations of air warriors.
“We have a deep attachment to it. For a long time, MiG-21 has been a witness to numerous heroic deeds. Its contribution has not been limited to a single event or a single war,” Singh said during the ceremony.
Reflecting on its storied service, he highlighted its pivotal roles in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the 1999 Kargil conflict, the 2019 Balakot airstrike, and Operation Sindoor, adding, “Whenever there have been historic missions, every time the MiG-21 enhanced the honour of the tricolour. Therefore, this farewell is also of our collective memories, of our national pride, and of that journey in which the story of courage, sacrifice and excellence has been written.”
The ceremony marked the end of an era for the MiG-21, which was inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in the early 1960s, ushering the force into the jet age as India’s first supersonic fighter and interceptor aircraft. The event celebrated the final operational phase of the MiG-21 jets belonging to Number 23 Squadron, known as the “Panthers.” IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh flew the last sortie of the squadron, using the call sign Badal 3, symbolising an emotional farewell to the aircraft that served for 62 years.
The decommissioning event was a grand affair, featuring a spectacular display by the IAF’s elite skydiving team, Akash Ganga, who performed jumps from 8,000 feet. This was followed by a majestic flypast showcasing a three-aircraft Badal formation and a four-aircraft Panther formation.
The Surya Kiran aerobatic team captivated the audience with breathtaking manoeuvres, while the Air Warrior drill team delivered a precise performance, culminating in an aerial salute to the retiring jet. The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including former IAF chiefs S.P. Tyagi and BS Dhanoa, as well as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.
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The MiG-21, with over 870 units procured, was a cornerstone of the IAF’s combat strength for decades. It played a decisive role in major conflicts, including the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan, the 1999 Kargil conflict, and the 2019 Balakot airstrike. Despite its illustrious service, the aircraft’s history was marred by multiple crashes, earning it a controversial reputation as a “flying coffin” among some critics due to safety concerns. Nevertheless, the MiG-21 remains a symbol of resilience and adaptability, having served as the IAF’s trusted workhorse.
In a recent post on X, the IAF paid homage to the aircraft, stating, “Six decades of service, countless tales of courage, a warhorse that carried the pride of a nation into the skies.” The decommissioning ceremony not only honoured the MiG-21’s legacy but also marked a transition for the IAF as it shifts toward modern platforms, carrying forward the lessons and pride instilled by this iconic fighter jet.
Also Read: MiG-21: Pilots reflect on flying legacy & farewell
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