Induction and Early Role
India Bids Farewell to MiG 21 Era: The MiG 21 was inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 1963 at Chandigarh Air Force Station, becoming India’s first supersonic fighter. India eventually procured over 870 aircraft, making it the most widely used combat platform in the country’s history.
Static GK fact: The MiG 21 was originally designed by the Soviet Union in the 1950s and became the world’s most produced supersonic jet.
Combat Operations
The aircraft played crucial roles in several wars. In the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan, it carried out frontline combat missions. During the Kargil Conflict of 1999, it provided vital air support. In 2019, a MiG 21 Bison engaged in a historic dogfight during the Balakot airstrikes, further underlining its combat relevance.
Static GK fact: Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman flew the MiG 21 Bison during the 2019 dogfight across the LoC.
Final Flight and Ceremony
The final rehearsal flight of the MiG 21 took place on 24 September 2025. The official decommissioning ceremony was held on 26 September 2025, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, and all three service chiefs. The No. 23 Squadron Panthers, the last unit operating the MiG 21, was officially retired.
Static GK Tip: The IAF has used the MiG 21 for 62 years, longer than any other fighter type in its inventory.
Transition to Modern Fleet
The retirement marks a shift towards modernisation. The IAF is now expanding Tejas squadrons, inducting more Rafale aircraft, and focusing on future projects like AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) and MRFA (Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft). The move symbolises India’s transition from Cold War-era imports to indigenous, tech-driven defence systems.
Historical Legacy
The MiG 21 remains an iconic part of India’s defence history. Known for speed, agility, and reliability, it served as the backbone of the IAF for six decades. While its safety record in later years drew criticism, the aircraft’s role in shaping India’s air power is undeniable.
Static GK fact: Over 60 countries operated the MiG 21 worldwide, making it one of the most exported combat jets in history.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Bids Farewell to MiG 21 Era:
| Topic | Detail |
| First Induction | 1963 at Chandigarh Air Force Station |
| Designed By | Soviet Union, introduced in 1950s |
| Total Aircraft Procured by India | Over 870 |
| Final Squadron | No. 23 Squadron Panthers |
| Final Flight | 24 September 2025 |
| Decommissioning Ceremony | 26 September 2025 |
| Key Attendees | Rajnath Singh, Gen Anil Chauhan, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, service chiefs |
| Notable Operations | 1965 & 1971 wars, 1999 Kargil Conflict, 2019 Balakot airstrikes |
| Replaced By | Tejas LCA, Rafale, future AMCA and MRFA platforms |
| Years in Service | 62 years |
