Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday paid tribute to the MiG-21 during its decommissioning ceremony at Chandigarh Air Force Station, describing the legendary fighter jet as more than an aircraft—it is a testament to India-Russia friendship and a symbol of national pride. Singh called the MiG-21 a “mighty machine, defence shield, and inspiration for generations of air warriors.”
Speaking at the event, he recalled the aircraft’s pivotal roles in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the Kargil conflict, the Balakot airstrike, and Operation Sindoor. “Who can forget the 1971 war? The MiG-21 attacked the Governor’s House in Dhaka and outlined the result of that war. Throughout history, it has proven its decisive capacity,” Singh said. He added that the farewell ceremony represents not just the retirement of a fighter but the collective memories, courage, and sacrifices of India’s armed forces.
The ceremony marked the culmination of operations for the Russian-origin fighter jet, whose induction in the early 1960s brought the IAF into the jet age. The last MiG-21s of Number 23 Squadron “Panthers” were honoured with a ceremonial sortie flown by Air Chief Marshal A P Singh.
A spectacular showcase accompanied the farewell, including skydiving displays by IAF’s Akash Ganga team from 8,000 feet, flypasts in Badal and Panther formations, and aerobatics by the Surya Kiran team, along with precision drills and an aerial salute. Distinguished guests such as former IAF Chiefs S P Tyagi and B S Dhanoa attended the ceremony.
The MiG-21, India’s first supersonic fighter, served as the backbone of the IAF for decades, with over 870 jets strengthening combat power. It played critical roles in multiple wars and conflicts but also faced challenges, including crashes that drew attention to its safety record. Despite this, the MiG-21 remains a celebrated workhorse in Indian military history.
The IAF summed up its legacy on social media, saying, “Six decades of service, countless tales of courage, a warhorse that carried pride of a nation into the skies.
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