MiG-21 Fighter Aircraft

Context

On September 26, 2025, the Indian Air Force's MiG-21 aircraft was officially retired at Chandigarh Air Force Station. This supersonic jet, inducted into the IAF in the 1960s, has long formed the backbone of India's air power. Describing it as a "national pride" Defense Minister Rajnath Singh said the MiG-21 has added many glorious moments to Indian military history.

About the MiG-21

• The MiG-21 is originally named the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21.
• It is a supersonic fighter and interceptor aircraft developed in the Soviet Union.
• India first inducted it into its Air Force in 1963.
• In total, the Indian Air Force purchased over 870 MiG-21 aircraft.
• It was India's first supersonic fighter.

Features

• Supersonic speed: over 2,000 km/h
• Lightweight and agile design, capable of rapid takeoff and landing
• Single-engine, effective even at low altitudes
• Suitable for the interceptor role
• Over time, modern versions such as the MiG-21 Bison were also added.

Use and Military Role

• Played a decisive role in the Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971.
• Used in both bombing and air defense during the 1999 Kargil War.
• Also used in the 2019 Balakot airstrike.
• This aircraft has been a vital part not only in combat but also in India's air defense and border defense.

Criticism

• The MiG-21's safety record has been controversial.
• It has been involved in numerous accidents over the past six decades, earning it the nickname "Flying Coffin" or "Legacy Coffin."
• Outdated technology and maintenance challenges have been its problems.
• Gradually, it began to prove itself vulnerable to new-age fighter aircraft.

New Developments and Alternatives

• The MiG-21 has now been replaced by the Tejas, Jaguar, Sukhoi-30MKI, and modern aircraft like the Rafale and AMCA in the Indian Air Force.
• The Tejas, developed indigenously by India, is capable of high-tech and multi-role capabilities.
• The modern aircraft features advanced avionics, stealth technology, and long-range weapons, far surpassing those of the MiG-21.

Conclusion

The MiG-21's farewell ceremony marks the end of an era in the Indian Air Force's history. This aircraft has been a symbol of India's air power, pride, and the Russia-India defense partnership. Although it has been replaced by modern and safer aircraft, the MiG-21 will always remain a symbol of India's military heritage and valour.