A thunderous salute echoed across the skies of Chandigarh today as the Indian Air Force (IAF) bid an emotional farewell. They said goodbye to the MiG-21, the supersonic fighter that defined India’s aerial might for more than six decades. The decommissioning ceremony brought to a close one of the most storied chapters in IAF history. It was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, military chiefs, veterans, and serving air warriors.
Calling the MiG-21 ‘a bird of all seasons’, the Defence Minister underlined its unmatched role in shaping India’s air strategy. It also inspired future platforms such as the indigenous LCA Tejas. Additionally, it influenced the upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). “The legacy of the MiG-21 will live on in India’s pursuit of Aatmanirbharta in defence,” he said. He described the aircraft as a symbol of courage, discipline, and patriotism.
A machine that became a legend
First inducted in 1963 into No. 28 Squadron, the ‘First Supersonics’, the MiG-21 was India’s first supersonic jet. It soon became the backbone of the IAF. More than 11,500 of the aircraft were built worldwide, with about 850 serving in India. Its multi-role adaptability earned it the title of ‘fighter of all seasons’. It excelled as an interceptor, ground-attack jet, frontline air defence platform, and trainer aircraft for generations of pilots.
“Standing on this legendary platform, countless air warriors learned to fly, adapt, and succeed in the toughest conditions,” said Rajnath Singh. He saluted its role in grooming some of the IAF’s finest fighter pilots.
Warhorse of multiple conflicts
The MiG-21’s combat record is as illustrious as its service span. From the 1971 war—where it struck Dhaka’s Governor House under hostile fire—to the Kargil conflict, the jet became synonymous with India’s offensive and defensive might. Additionally, the Balakot airstrike and Operation Sindoor enhanced its legendary status. “In every historic mission, the MiG-21 carried the Tricolour with honour,” noted Rajnath Singh.
Upgraded over decades into variants like Trishul, Vikram, Badal, and Bison, the aircraft consistently outperformed expectations of its original 1950s-era design. It stayed battle-ready with the help of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) engineers and scientists.
Beyond metal and machine
The Defence Minister went beyond military tradition to link the farewell with India’s civilisational ethos. He explained, “Our ancient culture teaches us that divinity resides not only in living beings, but also in non-living objects. Just as we worship tools and weapons, today’s farewell to the MiG-21 is an act of gratitude. It is a gesture towards a machine that protected our skies for over 60 years,” he remarked.
Chandigarh, where the MiG-21 began its Indian journey, proved a fitting venue for its last sortie. “This soil has witnessed a glorious chapter that redefined India’s air power. Today, history comes full circle,” Rajnath added.
A grand farewell
The ceremony was marked by an aerial spectacle. Formation take-offs, a symbolic Combat Air Patrol recreation, and aerobatics by Surya Kiran thrilled attendees. A joint flypast of MiG-21s with LCA Tejas symbolised the transition to India’s indigenous era. The event culminated in the ceremonial switch-off of six MiG-21s. Their operational documents were handed over to the Chief of Air Staff.
A commemorative stamp and special day cover were released to honour the fighter’s legacy. Additionally, there was a walk through the ‘Memory Lane’ museum and an interaction with veterans and air warriors.
The solemn yet celebratory occasion was witnessed by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan. Other attendees included Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi. Also present were DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat and senior defence officials.
As the sun set over Chandigarh’s skies, the roar of the MiG-21 engines faded for the last time. However, for the IAF and the nation, the aircraft’s story will endure. It remains the jet that took India supersonic. It shaped generations of pilots and set the foundation for the country’s future in aerospace self-reliance.
