End of an Era: Rajnath Singh Lauds MiG-21 for “Proud Moments” as IAF Phases Out Iconic Jet

NEW DELHI, INDIA – In a poignant moment marking the end of a remarkable chapter in India’s defence history, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today offered a heartfelt tribute to the MiG-21 fighter jet. As the Indian Air Force (IAF) moves to phase out its final squadron of the legendary aircraft by the end of 2025, Singh acknowledged its unparalleled contributions, stating that the MiG-21 has “added many proud moments in military aviation journey.”

The announcement comes amidst ongoing modernization efforts within the IAF, but it also evokes a sense of nostalgia for an aircraft that has been the backbone of India’s air defence for over six decades. From daring combat missions to routine patrols, the MiG-21 legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of the nation’s security.

Rajnath Singh’s Tribute: Acknowledging a Combat Veteran

Speaking at a defence industry event in New Delhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored the pivotal role the MiG-21 played.

“For over 60 years, the MiG-21 has served our nation with unparalleled bravery and dedication,” Singh said. “It has been at the forefront of every major conflict and operation, safeguarding our skies and adding many proud moments to our military aviation journey. As we transition to new, more advanced platforms, we must never forget the sacrifices and triumphs associated with this iconic fighter jet.”

His remarks highlighted the jet’s reliability and the skill of the IAF pilots who flew it, often against technologically superior adversaries.

Also Read: India’s Festive Cheer: Record Car Sales Mark Navratri’s Start Following Game-Changing GST Reforms

The MiG-21: A “Flying Coffin” or a Fighter’s Pride?

The MiG-21, often nicknamed the “flying coffin” by some due to its accident record in recent decades, has a more complex story. For the Indian Air Force, it has been an invaluable workhorse.

• Origin: First inducted into the IAF in 1963, the Soviet-origin supersonic jet quickly became a formidable component of India’s air power.
• Numbers: India was one of the largest operators of the MiG-21, having procured over 800 variants over the years. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) also license-produced the aircraft, making India self-reliant in maintaining this crucial fleet.
• Upgrades: Despite its age, the IAF continuously upgraded its MiG-21 fleet to Bison standard, extending its operational life and enhancing its capabilities.

A Legacy Forged in Combat: Key Operations

The MiG-21 has been at the heart of nearly every major military engagement involving India.

• 1971 Indo-Pak War: This was arguably the MiG-21’s finest hour. IAF MiG-21s achieved significant air-to-air victories, showcasing their agility and firepower. They played a crucial role in establishing air superiority, particularly over East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
• Kargil War (1999): MiG-21s were actively deployed during the Kargil War, providing vital air cover and reconnaissance, demonstrating their utility even decades after their induction.
• Balakot Airstrike (2019): Perhaps the most recent high-profile engagement involved a MiG-21 Bison, piloted by Wing Commander (now Group Captain) Abhinandan Varthaman, who shot down a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet before being downed himself and captured. This incident underscored the jet’s continued combat effectiveness in the hands of a skilled pilot.

Why is the IAF Phasing Out the MiG-21?

Despite its glorious past, the decision to retire the MiG-21 is a strategic necessity driven by several factors:

• Age and Maintenance: After six decades of service, the airframes are aging, and maintenance costs are spiraling.
• Safety Concerns: The MiG-21 has unfortunately been involved in a high number of accidents, leading to pilot fatalities and the “flying coffin” moniker. While pilot training and maintenance are often cited, the inherent design and age of the aircraft contribute to these risks.
• Technological Gap: Modern aerial warfare demands advanced avionics, radar systems, and stealth capabilities that the MiG-21, even after upgrades, cannot fully match.

Also Read: Ladakh Erupts: Unraveling the Demands Behind the Intense Protests and Mounting Anger

The Future of IAF Fighter Jets: A Modern Fleet

The phasing out of the MiG-21 is part of a broader plan to modernize the IAF fighter jet fleet. India is significantly investing in next-generation aircraft to bolster its Indian defence capabilities.

• Tejas LCA: India’s indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is gradually replacing the MiG-21. The Tejas Mk1A variant, with enhanced capabilities, is being inducted in larger numbers.
• Rafale Jets: The induction of French-made Rafale jets has significantly boosted the IAF’s combat prowess, providing state-of-the-art multi-role capabilities.
• Sukhoi Su-30MKI: The formidable Sukhoi Su-30MKI remains a significant component of the IAF’s long-range strike capabilities.
• Future Acquisitions: India is also looking at acquiring more advanced fighter jets and developing its own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) to ensure air superiority for decades to come.

Conclusion: Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s tribute to the MiG-21 retirement is a fitting recognition of an aircraft that has served India valiantly. While its phasing out marks the end of an era, it also signifies the IAF’s forward march towards building a more technologically advanced and potent air force. The lessons learned, the victories achieved, and the sacrifices made by the pilots flying the MiG-21 will forever remain a source of inspiration and proud moments in India’s military aviation history, ensuring its legendary status endures even as it exits active service.