IAF’s MiG-21 Retires: Legendary fighter jet flies its final mission, Rajnath Singh calls it ‘National Pride’
The MiG-21 fighter jets, inducted in the early 1960s, concluded over six decades of service as the IAF's first supersonic fighter and interceptor aircraft
PTC Web Desk: The Indian Air Force’s iconic MiG-21 has officially retired from service, marking the end of an era for the legendary fighter jet. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the aircraft, calling it “a mighty machine, a symbol of national pride, and a shield of our defence.”
Speaking on the occasion, Rajnath Singh said, “We have a deep attachment to the MiG-21. It has shaped our confidence and strengthened our security. The MiG-21 is not just an aircraft or a machine; it is also a testament to the strong India-Russia ties.”
The MiG-21 has served the nation for decades, playing a crucial role in India’s air defence and becoming an enduring symbol of courage, technology, and strategic partnership.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said MiG-21 had witnessed numerous acts of bravery over a long period. Its contribution had not been limited to any single event or war.
The Defence Minister added, “We share many memories with the MiG-21. Its journey of valour has been integral to ours as well. Today, we bid farewell to it. I feel both pride and gratitude in my heart. We are closing a chapter filled with countless memories. It is not just a machine, but also a symbol of India-Russia friendship. The MiG has been part of many glorious moments. There have been 850 MiGs in India. As you all saw, it even led the final fly-past itself, which reflects the respect we have for it.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “Who can forget the 1971 war? During the conflict with Pakistan, under adverse conditions, the MiG-21 attacked the Governor House in Dhaka, and on that very day, it helped determine the outcome of the war. There have been many moments in history when the MiG-21 demonstrated its decisive capability. In every historic mission, the MiG-21 has enhanced the honour of the tricolour.”
Rajnath Singh said, “The MiG-21 is deeply connected to our country’s memories and emotions. Its journey of over 60 years, from 1963 to today, is unparalleled. For us, it is not just a fighter aircraft but like a member of the family to which we have a deep attachment.”
He added, “The MiG-21 has shaped our confidence, strengthened our strategy, and helped establish us on the global stage. During this long journey, the fighter jet has faced every challenge and proven its capability each time.”
Notably, according to Defence Ministry data, more than 400 MiG-21 aircraft have crashed, resulting in the deaths of over 200 pilots. For this reason, the fighter jet has earned nicknames like “Flying Coffin” and “Widow Maker.”
The MiG-21 fighter jets, inducted in the early 1960s, concluded over six decades of service as the Indian Air Force’s first supersonic fighter and interceptor aircraft. The inaugural MiG-21 Squadron was led by Dilbagh Singh, who later became the IAF Chief in 1981. These jets were instrumental in India’s 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan and played key roles in the 1999 Kargil conflict and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes.
The farewell ceremony on Friday was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi.