The Indian Air Force (IAF)'s longest-serving military aircraft, the MiG-21, is now approaching its final journey. The Indian Air Force is set to retire this Russian fighter jet in 2025, after nearly 62 years of service to the nation.
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force's longest-serving fighter aircraft, the MiG-21, is now set to retire. On September 19, 2025, its last squadron, the Panthers, will be bid farewell at a formal ceremony at Chandigarh Airbase. The MiG-21 served the Indian Air Force (IAF) for 62 years and brought glory to the country in many wars.
This aircraft was India's first supersonic fighter jet, which not only thwarted enemies but also strengthened the country's path towards self-reliance in the defense sector. However, this same aircraft was later dubbed the "Flying Coffin" after more than 170 pilots lost their lives in its frequent accidents. This article explores the MiG-21's journey from its inception to its retirement, encompassing valor, controversy, and history.
The Beginning: When India Needed a Powerful Response
In 1963, after India's defeat in the 1962 war with China, there was a dire need to modernize its military strength. At such a time, the MiG-21, received from the Soviet Union, was one of the most advanced interceptor jets in the world. This single-seater and single-engine aircraft could fly at twice the speed of sound (Mach 2). Due to its small size, agility, and aggressive capabilities, it soon became the backbone of the Indian Air Force.
India has acquired more than 874 MiG-21 aircraft to date, including the MiG-21FL, MiG-21M, MiG-21bis, and the upgraded MiG-21 Bison. A matter of pride was that more than 650 of these aircraft were manufactured in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a historic milestone for the country's aerospace industry. With the deployment of the MiG-21, India not only challenged Pakistan in air power but also laid the foundation for a new strategic balance in South Asia.
Unique Role in Wars: From 1965 to 2019
The MiG-21 helped India achieve victory on many fronts, from the 1965 Indo-Pak war to the 1999 Kargil War. It attacked enemy airbases, outmaneuvered opposing aircraft in dogfights, and provided support to the army in ground operations.
- 1971 War: The MiG-21 played a decisive role in this war. Several Pakistani airbases were destroyed in MiG-21 attacks. It proved to be a game-changer fighter of that era.
- 1999 – Kargil War: Indian Air Force's MiG-21 aircraft destroyed enemy positions on rugged mountains. It proved its reliability in fighting at high altitudes.
- 2019 – After Balakot Strike: Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16 aircraft while flying a MiG-21 Bison. This incident became an example of the MiG-21's technical relevance and the pilot's skill.
Flying Coffin: Glory and Disrepute
Although the MiG-21 won many wars, the frequent accidents severely damaged its image. It became commonly known as the 'Flying Coffin'. Its outdated design, limited safety features, technical flaws, and human errors contributed to its repeated accidents. In 2021 and 2022, two pilots were killed in MiG-21 trainer crashes. In 2023, the crash of a MiG in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, resulted in the death of three civilians on the ground.
Upgrades and Role in Operation Sindoor
The MiG-21 was upgraded several times to the 'Bison' version, which included improved avionics and weapon systems. It was recently used to a limited extent in 'Operation Sindoor', showing that it was kept in active duty until its final days. Currently, the Indian Air Force has approximately 40 MiG-21 aircraft.
After the 'Panthers Squadron' retires, the IAF will have only 31 active combat squadrons, the lowest since the 1960s. This shortage was not even present when India fought against China in 1962. Although modern jets like Rafale, Tejas, and Sukhoi are now becoming the backbone of the Air Force, the MiG-21's place will always be special historically and emotionally.
MiG-21: A Legacy, A Pride
The MiG-21 was not just a fighter jet; it was India's defense policy, strategic strength, and the first b step towards self-reliance. It provided a platform for young pilots to demonstrate their valor in the skies and proved to be a victorious weapon in many national crises. Now, as this fighter aircraft embarks on its final journey, we salute its bravery and sacrifice.
