The Indian Air Force will officially retire the MiG-21 in September. After 62 years of service, it will be bid farewell at a special ceremony at Chandigarh Airbase.
MiG-21 Retirement: The Indian Air Force's MiG-21 fighter jet will be officially decommissioned in September 2025. This historic aircraft, which has served the country for 62 years, will be bid farewell at a special ceremony at Chandigarh Airbase. The MiG-21 has not only been a symbol of technical achievement but also an important part of India's many military operations.
Historical Background of the MiG-21
The MiG-21 is a single-seat supersonic fighter jet developed in 1959 by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau of Soviet Russia. The Indian Air Force first inducted it in 1963. This aircraft can fly up to an altitude of 18,000 meters and reach a speed of 2,230 kilometers per hour (Mach 2.05). It is also capable of carrying air-to-air missiles and bombs.
Played an Important Role in the Indo-Pak Wars
The MiG-21 played a very decisive role in the Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971. Especially in 1971, an Indian MiG-21 shot down a Pakistani Chengdu F-7 (the Chinese version of the MiG-21). Apart from this, it also played important roles in the Kargil War in 1999 and the Balakot Airstrike in 2019.
Why it is Called 'Flying Coffin'
There is a sad truth behind the MiG-21 being called 'Flying Coffin' or 'Widow Maker'. Incidents of crashes related to this aircraft have come to light from time to time. Due to technical faults and old design, flying it was considered risky. According to reports, its cockpit design is such that the pilot cannot see the runway properly. Apart from this, its landing speed is very high, which increases the risk of accidents.
Russia and Other Countries Have Already Retired It
While India is now retiring the MiG-21, Russia had already removed it from service in 1985. Countries like Afghanistan and Bangladesh had also bid farewell to this aircraft earlier. There was a long-standing demand to end its service in India as well, which has now been accepted.
62 Years of Service: A Glorious History
Having been active in the Indian Air Force for 62 years, the MiG-21 has made its place in Indian military history. It is an aircraft that has shaped many decisive moments in India's security. Although questions have been raised about its reliability, its services to the country are unforgettable.
