IAF Retires Iconic MiG-21 After 62 Years: Rajnath Singh, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh Attend Grand Farewell Ceremony
In Chandigarh, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh joined senior military officials, veterans, and families at a grand farewell ceremony to bid adieu to the iconic Soviet-era fighter jet, concluding its 62 years of remarkable service.
End of an Era in Chandigarh
The Indian Air Force’s MiG-21 was retired in Chandigarh after 62 years of service. Rajnath Singh and officials attended this.
Spectacular Farewell Ceremony
The farewell featured MiG-21s, Jaguars, and the Suryakiran aerobatic team flypast, with the jets. This received a traditional water cannon salute on landing.
Historic Final Sortie
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh flew the last sortie alongside Squadron Leader Priya Sharma. This marks the MiG-21’s symbolic final mission.
Legacy of the MiG-21
The supersonic MiG-21 served in multiple wars and conflicts. This also includes the 1965 and 1971 wars, the Kargil and Balakot conflicts, and the Operation Sindoor mission.
Rajnath Singh’s Tribute
Rajnath Singh praised the MiG-21’s heroic contributions, from the Bangladesh Liberation War to Abhinandan Varthaman shooting down a Pakistani F-16 in 2019.
Future of IAF Fighter Fleet
After the MiG-21 retirement, IAF strength dropped to 29 squadrons, with Tejas Mk1, Mk2, and Rafales filling future gaps.
