The Indian Air Force (IAF) will officially decommission the MiG-21 fighter jet fleet on September 26, marking the end of a significant chapter in India’s military aviation history. After nearly 60 years of operational service, a ceremonial flypast will commemorate this milestone.
A Pioneer in Indian Air Power
- The MiG-21 was inducted in 1963 and became India’s first supersonic fighter aircraft.
- Over 700 units of various MiG-21 variants were procured, with many later manufactured under licence by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
- The aircraft served as the mainstay of the IAF for decades, dominating its combat fleet until the early 2000s.
Combat Legacy
The MiG-21 played a pivotal role in several major military operations:
- Indo-Pak War of 1965 – demonstrated its combat worth.
- 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War – contributed to decisive air superiority.
- Kargil Conflict (1999) – carried out ground strike missions under high-risk conditions.
- 2019 Balakot Air Strikes aftermath – gained contemporary relevance when Wing Commander (now Group Captain) Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16 using a MiG-21 Bison.
- Operation Sindoor – involved in strategic air support missions.
Symbol of Technological Growth
- The MiG-21 programme strengthened India’s aerospace ecosystem, enabling transfer of technology and local production capabilities.
- It became a training platform for generations of IAF pilots, shaping air combat doctrines.
Why Phase-Out Was Needed
Despite its glorious service record, the aircraft faced criticism due to:
- Recurring crashes linked to ageing airframes and outdated systems.
- High maintenance demands.
- Reduced survivability against modern fighter jets and missile systems.
The Road Ahead
- With MiG-21 squadrons retiring, IAF squadron strength is expected to temporarily dip to 29 squadrons, against the sanctioned strength of 42.
- The indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk 1A will gradually replace the MiG-21.
- Focus now shifts toward Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence aviation with future additions like Tejas Mk 2, AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft), and Rafale squadrons.