Tue Aug 26 07:26:42 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**India Bids Farewell to Iconic MiG-21 Fighter Jet After 62 Years of Service**
**Bikaner, Rajasthan -** After an incredible 62 years of service to the Indian Air Force (IAF), the MiG-21 fighter jet is set to retire. The last remaining squadron will be officially stood down next month, marking the end of an era for the iconic aircraft.
Developed in the Soviet Union by Mikoyan and Gurevich, the MiG-21 first arrived in India in 1963. Initially intended as a high-altitude interceptor, the aircraft’s role expanded to include ground attack, reconnaissance, and air defense. Over time, the MiG-21 became the backbone of the IAF, symbolizing Indo-Russian military ties.
The MiG-21 has been a key player in numerous conflicts, including wars with Pakistan and operations in Sri Lanka and Kargil. Notably, in 2019, Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman used a MiG-21 Bison to shoot down a more advanced Pakistani F-16 fighter jet.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh recently flew solo sorties from the Nal Air Force station in Bikaner, Rajasthan, in honor of the jet.
Despite its impressive track record, the MiG-21 has faced safety concerns in recent years, leading to its nickname, “the flying coffin.” The IAF grounded the entire fleet after a crash in May 2023.
The MiG-21’s legacy includes training thousands of fighter pilots, bolstering India’s aerospace and defense industry, and modernizing the nation’s air force. The final variant, the Bison, featured upgraded electronics and weaponry, proving its continued relevance in modern combat.
While the MiG-21’s retirement marks the end of an era, its impact on Indian military history will never be forgotten.
First Piper 