SRINAGAR: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will officially retire its legendary MiG-21 fighter jets on 26 September, ending over five decades of service for the aircraft widely regarded as the “warhorse” of India’s air defence, as per several media reports.
First inducted in 1963, the MiG-21 has played a crucial role in multiple conflicts, including the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan, and has been a mainstay of India’s aerial combat capabilities.
Over the years, the fleet has faced scrutiny due to safety concerns, with the aircraft involved in numerous accidents. The retirement marks the gradual phasing out of older fighter jets as the IAF strengthens its fleet with modern aircraft such as the Rafale and Tejas.
Officials as per The Economic Times, said a ceremonial flypast and decommissioning event will be held at a prominent IAF base, attended by senior military leaders and veteran pilots who have flown the MiG-21 over decades.
The jet could now be replaced with the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark A1. The force has reportedly signed contracts for 83 Tejas jets.
