India’s MiG-21 set for final flight after 62 years of service

The Indian Air Force is preparing to bid farewell to the legendary MiG-21 fighter jet, marking the end of a historic era. A ceremonial retirement event is scheduled for September 19 at Chandigarh Airbase, where the remaining MiG-21s of the 23 Squadron, known as the Panthers, will take their final bow.

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Inducted in 1963, the MiG-21 was India’s first supersonic fighter aircraft and played a pivotal role in shaping the IAF’s aerial capabilities. Over six decades, it served in all major military operations, including the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan, the 1999 Kargil conflict, and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes. Most recently, the aircraft remained on standby during Operation Sindoor.

Despite its combat credentials, the aircraft developed a troubled reputation due to its high accident rate, earning the grim moniker "Flying Coffin." Over 850 units were inducted, with nearly 600 manufactured domestically by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), making it India’s largest fighter fleet.

The MiG-21’s phase-out was repeatedly delayed due to setbacks in newer fighter inductions, particularly the LCA Tejas. With its retirement, the IAF's active combat squadron strength will dip to 29—its lowest since the 1960s.

The farewell event will feature flypasts, static displays, and participation from veterans and top IAF officials, marking a deeply emotional and symbolic closure to a jet that defined generations of Indian fighter pilots.