Indian Air Force (IAF) officially decommissioned the legendary MiG-21 in a ceremonial event at Chandigarh, marking the end of a six-decade service history that shaped India’s military aviation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the MiG-21 as a symbol of courage, discipline and patriotism, declaring that its legacy will inspire the development of indigenous fighters such as LCA-Tejas and the upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
The ceremony featured a spectacular flypast led by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, including Jaguars, MiG-21s and a joint MiG-21–LCA Tejas formation, highlighting the transition from the Bison to India’s homegrown Tejas. A ceremonial switch-off of six MiG-21 aircraft and the handover of the aircraft’s Form-700 officially ended operations.
Rajnath Singh paid tribute to generations of air warriors, calling the MiG-21 a “bird of all seasons” that excelled as an interceptor, ground-attack platform, frontline air defence jet and trainer. He recalled the aircraft’s decisive roles in the 1971 war, Kargil conflict, Balakot airstrike and Operation Sindoor, underscoring its versatility and unmatched service.
Since its induction in 1963, about 850 MiG-21s served with the IAF, part of more than 11,500 built worldwide. Singh emphasised that modern upgrades by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) kept the fighter technologically relevant for decades, with advanced radars, avionics and weapon systems extending its operational life to global standards.
Defence Minister framed the farewell as an act of gratitude, reflecting India’s tradition of respecting tools of national power. He highlighted Chandigarh’s historic significance as the place where India’s supersonic journey began with the MiG-21 and where it now concludes.
The event included a commemorative day cover and stamp release, a visit to the Memory Lane museum, and a Bara Khana with veterans and serving air warriors. Chiefs of the Army, Navy and Defence Staff, senior IAF officers, engineers, technicians and former MiG-21 crew joined to honour an aircraft that defined India’s air power and now inspires the nation’s push for Aatmanirbharta in defence.
