The skies over Chandigarh will fall silent today as the Indian Air Force (IAF) officially retires its last squadron of the legendary MiG-21 fighter jet (second generation), a warhorse that has defined Indian air power for over 60 years. While its retirement marks the end of a glorious era, it also signals the inevitable march of progress, with modern, fourth and fifth-generation aircrafts taking its place.
The MiG-21’s journey in India began in 1963 when it was inducted into the IAF. This induction marked a quantum leap for the air force, as it transitioned from subsonic to supersonic flight, becoming the first country outside the Soviet Union to operate the jet. Its simple yet effective design- a delta wing and a nose intake – made it a potent interceptor, and its affordability allowed India to build a formidable fleet, with over 870 units inducted and many produced under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The fighter jet’s combat prowess was truly validated during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. The MiG-21 played a pivotal role on both the Western and Eastern fronts, achieving numerous air-to-air kills and striking deep inside enemy territory. Its agility and speed earned it the nickname “Sabre Slayer” after it systematically outmaneuvered and shot down Pakistani F-86 Sabres. The jet continued to serve with distinction, participating in the 1999 Kargil conflict and even the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, proving its enduring relevance through decades of upgrades. The most notable of these was the MiG-21 “Bison” variant, which incorporated modern avionics, multi-function displays, and advanced Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles.
However, over its long service life, the MiG-21 became as infamous for its safety record as it was famous for its combat victories. The jet, originally designed for a short-term, interceptor role with a high landing speed, was pressed into service for decades, often exceeding its design lifespan. This, combined with high-speed takeoffs and landings and the challenges of sourcing spare parts after the collapse of the Soviet Union, led to a grim number of accidents. With over 400 crashes and the tragic loss of over 200 pilots, the aircraft earned the somber nickname ‘the flying coffin.’
Recent incidents have underscored the urgent need for its retirement. In May 2023, a MiG-21 crashed into a house in Rajasthan, killing three civilians. While the pilot ejected safely, the incident highlighted the risk these aging platforms posed not only to pilots but also to those on the ground. Similarly, a fatal crash in 2022 claimed the lives of both pilots on a training sortie. These tragedies have cemented the decision to finally ground the fleet. While the MiG-21’s service is marked by both glory and sorrow, its retirement is a necessary step towards a safer and more modern air force. The grand farewell ceremony in Chandigarh is not just a tribute to a machine, but a poignant recognition that its purpose has been served.
As the IAF bids farewell to the MiG-21, the grand ceremony in Chandigarh is not merely a tribute to a machine but a salute to its indomitable spirit and the brave pilots who flew it. The void left by the MiG-21 will be filled by advanced, safer, and more capable aircraft, such as the indigenous Tejas and cutting-edge fifth-generation platforms. This transition, long overdue, is the need of the hour, ensuring the IAF soars to new heights with unmatched strength and security. The retirement of the MiG-21 is a bold step into a future where India’s air power will continue to inspire awe and safeguard the nation with renewed vigor.
