In September 2025, the Indian Air Force will formally retire its MiG-21 fighter jets, concluding a remarkable 62-year service that shaped India’s airpower narrative. On September 19, a ceremonial farewell at Chandigarh airbase will mark the end of this era, as the famed No. 23 Squadron “Panthers” carries out its final sortie
From Soviet Supersonic Debut to Indian Icon
- The MiG‑21, inducted in 1963, was India’s first supersonic jet and transformed the nation’s aerial warfare capability
- Over 850 aircraft acquired across variants—including HAL‑built Type 88 and MiG‑21bis—rooted fighter aviation firmly in Indian air defence doctrine
- Participated in key conflicts: Indo‑Pakistani Wars (1965, 1971), Kargil (1999), Balakot strike (2019), and even maintained alert status during Operation Sindoor
The Dual Legacy – Valor & Vulnerability
Wing of Glory
For many years, the MiG-21 symbolized India’s courage and self-reliance in aerial combat. Its velocity and agility earned appreciation from pilots and commanders alike, even in later years, while fleets diminished.
Shadow of Tragedy
Despite its status, the jet collected a tragic recognition: nicknames like “Flying Coffin” and “Widow Maker” meditated over four hundred crashes and nearly 200 pilot fatalities. Aging airframes, restrained upgrade capability, and pilot education gaps compounded protection dangers.
A New Sky Awaits – Tejas, AMCA, and Beyond
- The MiG‑21’s retirement paves the way for India’s indigenous LCA Tejas Mk 1A jets to replace its remaining squadrons, especially at Nal Air Force Station
- The Air Force’s active combat strength will drop to 29 squadrons, the lowest since the 1965 war
- Privatization and thrust on domestic production—backed by the ‘Make in India’ initiative—aim to boost Tejas output and fast-track next‑generation fighters like the AMCA. India is also evaluating importing 5th‑gen jets, including F‑35 or Su‑57, to fill interim capability gaps
Emotional Farewell & Historical Reflection
- The ceremonial retirement on September 19, 2025, will officially number‑plate the MiG‑21s of the 23 Squadron “Panthers”, signaling their removal from active service
- Legendary pilot Air Commodore Surendra Singh Tyagi (retd), who logged over 4,300 flight hours on the MiG‑21, has requested one final take‑off —a deeply personal farewell to an aircraft that defined his career
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Final Word
While MIG-21 takes its last bow from active Indian service, it rejects a defined chapter in the country’s air defense. Its heritage – both conquests, tragedies, and transitions – marks an axis against indifference and indigenous people’s modernity. Baton is now ready for tomorrow’s challenges from Tejas, AMCA, and self-confidence in the Indian aviation sector.
FAQs about MiG‑21 Retires After 62 Years
Ans. The MIG-21 is India’s first supersonic fighter jet, inducted in 1963, noted for its pivotal position in more than one war and air defence.
Ans. After 62 years of career, getting old airframes, increasing protection concerns, and the availability of modern planes have brought about its planned phase-out.
Ans. The ultimate MiG-21 squadron is ready to be retired in September 2025, marking the end of an iconic generation in Indian Air Force records.
Ans. As of 2025, one squadron will stay operational and may be decommissioned at some point during the retirement ceremony.
Ans. The MIG-21 will be replaced by indigenous LCA Tejas, Su-30 MKI, and different advanced planes with better generation and protection.