IAF Concludes MiG-21 Era with Final Sorties by Air Chief Marshal
The Indian Air Force (IAF) bid an emotional farewell to its MiG-21 fighter jets, which flew their final operational missions from Nal Air Base in Bikaner on Monday. This event marks the conclusion of the era for India's oldest supersonic combat aircraft.
In a tribute to the aircraft's storied legacy, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh conducted solo flights in the MiG-21, creating a poignant moment for the air force and the many generations of aviators who have operated the Soviet-designed jet since the 1960s.
"This aircraft was the backbone of the IAF for decades and played a defining role in shaping our combat capabilities," Singh remarked following his flight.
The MiG-21 remains one of the most widely produced fighter jets globally, with more than 11,000 units manufactured and used by over 60 countries. In India, it became emblematic of the IAF's air power for more than six decades, participating in multiple conflicts and training countless fighter pilots.
This farewell takes place just one day before the official de-induction ceremony in Chandigarh, where the MiG-21 will be formally retired.
Tejas to Take Over the Mantle
Looking to the future, the Air Chief highlighted the indigenous LCA Tejas as the successor to the MiG-21. With its compact, delta-winged design, Tejas is expected to develop into multiple variants.
With 83 Tejas Mk1A jets already contracted and additional orders planned, the aircraft will gradually assume frontline roles. Future models such as the Tejas Mk2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) are set to continue the MiG-21's legacy, merging India's rich aviation heritage with advanced indigenous technology.
