“The legacy of the MiG-21
will live on in India’s pursuit of Aatmanirbharta in defence. The aircraft
symbolises the continuity of courage, discipline and patriotism that will
inspire the development of indigenous platforms such as LCA-Tejas and the
upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA),” stated Raksha Mantri Mr.
Rajnath Singh during the Decommissioning Ceremony of the Indian Air Force (IAF)
MiG-21 in Chandigarh on 26 September 2025. The ceremony marked the final
operational sortie of the MiG-21, bringing to a close an illustrious chapter of
more than six decades in the history of the IAF. Raksha Mantri underlined that
when the world looks at India tomorrow, it should see a nation that began with
the MiG-21 and now leads with futuristic defence technologies.
Mr. Rajnath Singh saluted the valour and dedication of the air
warriors of the IAF who have, through courage and sacrifice, safeguarded the
sovereignty, unity and integrity of the nation. He paid glowing tribute to the
MiG-21, describing it as more than just a machine, but rather a symbol of
India’s rise in military aviation, a shield of national defence, and a faithful
companion of the Armed Forces since its induction in 1963. Raksha Mantri
pointed out that more than 11,500 MiG-21s were built worldwide, of which
approximately 850 served with the IAF, which testify the aircraft’s popularity,
credibility and multi-dimensional capabilities.
Raksha Mantri recalled how the MiG-21 proved its mettle in
multiple theatres of war and conflict, from its decisive role in the 1971 war,
where it attacked the Governor’s House in Dhaka under hostile conditions and
hastened India’s victory, to its presence in the Kargil conflict, the Balakot
airstrike and Operation Sindoor. “In every historic mission, the MiG-21 carried
the Tricolour with honour. Its contribution has never been limited to a single
event or battle, it has been a pillar of India’s air power for decades,” he
highlighted.
Highlighting the aircraft’s versatility, Mr. Rajnath Singh
described the MiG-21 as the “bird of all seasons” which excelled in every
conceivable role as an interceptor deterring enemy aircraft, a ground attack
platform displaying offensive capability, a frontline air defence jet
protecting Indian skies, and a trainer aircraft that groomed countless pilots.
“The foundation of our highly skilled fighter pilots was laid on the MiG-21.
Standing on this legendary platform, generations of air warriors learned to
fly, adapt, and succeed in the toughest conditions. Its role in shaping India’s
air strategy cannot be overstated,” he stated.
The Defence Minister further stated that the MiG-21 performed far
beyond expectations of both its designers and operators, evolving from a
1950s-era jet into a formidable, upgraded platform known by names such as
Trishul, Vikram, Badal and Bison. He added that this adaptability is what kept
the MiG-21 at the heart of the IAF’s inventory for so long. “The MiG-21 taught
us never to fear change, but to embrace it with confidence. Today, India’s
defence ecosystem, our research labs, academia, DPSUs, private sector, startups
and youth is working in unison to take this legacy forward,” he underscored.
Raksha Mantri also addressed misconceptions regarding the age of
the aircraft. He clarified that while the initial MiG-21s inducted in the 1960s
and 70s were retired long ago, the aircraft in service until now were at most
40 years old, a lifespan considered normal for fighter jets worldwide. He
underlined that the MiG-21 was continuously upgraded with advanced radars,
avionics and weapon systems, thanks to the efforts of Hindustan Aeronautics
Limited (HAL). Commending HAL engineers and scientists, he stated that their
relentless work kept the aircraft technologically relevant and battle-ready for
decades.
Mr. Rajnath Singh emphasised that this farewell should not be seen
merely as a ceremonial military tradition, but as an extension of India’s
civilisational ethos. Drawing from Indian philosophy, he said, “Our ancient
culture teaches us that divinity resides not only in living beings, but also in
non-living objects. Just as we worship the earth, rivers, trees and tools that
serve us, today’s farewell to the MiG-21 is an act of gratitude towards a
machine that protected our skies and inspired confidence in our people for over
60 years.” He added that this moment was akin to the rituals performed for
weapons on Dussehra, reflecting a continuity of respect towards all that
empowers the nation.
Underscoring the special significance of Chandigarh as the venue,
Raksha Mantri stated that it was this place that India’s supersonic journey
began with the induction of the MiG-21 into No. 28 Squadron, the First
Supersonics. “This soil has witnessed a glorious chapter that redefined India’s
air power. Today, history comes full circle as we bid farewell to that very
aircraft from the same place,” he added.
The ceremony was marked by a spectacular flypast led by Chief of
the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, a rare and symbolic gesture that
reflected the deep respect the IAF holds for the legendary aircraft. The event
featured a series of aerial displays including a skydiving demonstration by
Akash Ganga, formation take-offs by MiG-21s, the Badal and Panther formations,
precision drill movements by the Air Warrior Drill Team, Surya Kiran Aerobatic
Team and a symbolic flypast showcasing Jaguars and MiG-21s in a historical
recreation of Combat Air Patrol. A joint MiG-21 and LCA Tejas flypast highlighted
the transition from the legendary Bison to the indigenous Tejas.
A ceremonial switch-off of six MiG-21 aircraft in front of the
dignitaries marked the culmination of the aircraft’s operational service. The
aircraft document Form-700 was handed over to the Chief of the Air Staff by
officers and airmen of 23 and Commanding Officer of 28 Squadron. On this occasion, the Raksha Mantri also released a special
commemorative day cover and stamp honouring the legacy of the MiG-21. He also
made a visit to the Memory Lane museum, followed by a Bara Khana with air
warriors and veterans.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval
Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra
Dwivedi, Secretary DDR&D & Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat and Financial
Advisor (Defence Services) Dr. Mayank Sharma were also present on the occasion.
The gathering witnessed the participation of senior officers of the IAF,
veterans, engineers, technicians, ground crew and air warriors who have served
with the MiG-21 over its long operational life.
Text: MoD
All photos: The Vayu
Team