New Delhi. India on Friday officially retired its Soviet-era MiG-21 fighter jet.

Once hailed for valour and warfare, the aircraft has been forever dubbed the “Flying Coffin” when it finally bid farewell after more than 60 years of service.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has retired the MiG-21 from the Indian Air Force, citing the need to expand and modernise its fleet to meet the threat posed by China and Pakistan on two fronts.

With this move, the IAF has now been reduced to 29 squadrons. This is less than the 42 squadrons approved by the government. Each squadron has 16 to 18 fighter jets.

Defense analyst N. C. Bipindra warned, “If the decline in the fleet is not stopped immediately, it will be difficult for India to compete in modern warfare with its neighboring adversaries.” ’

India currently operates the French-made Rafale and Mirage 2000, Russian Su-30 and MiG-29 as well as indigenous Tejas jets. India has recently placed a large number of new orders to speed up the Tejas program.

Historical background and contributions

The MiG-21, which was inducted into the Air Force in the 1960s, played a key role in the wars with Pakistan and China. With a needle-like nose, this supersonic aircraft was once the backbone of India’s air power. But due to technical weaknesses and outdated technology, it was called the ‘Flying Coffin’ due to continuous accidents.

According to official figures, India bought 872 MiGs of various models between 1966 and 1980. This made India the world’s largest operator. Between 1971 and 2012, 171 pilots, 39 civilians, eight service members and one aircrew were killed in 482 crashes. Human error and technical problems were the main reasons.

The 2006 MiG-21 crash was inspired by the 2006 MiG-21 pilot and the Bollywood film ‘Rang De Basanti’, which left a deep impression on the public consciousness.

Final Salute

Air Marshal A K Singh was present at the Northern Airbase in Chandigarh on Friday in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. p. The MiG-21 was given a colourful farewell with the final sortie led by Singh. After landing, the aircraft was given a water cannon salute.

“The MiG-21 trained a generation of Indian fighter pilots. It made me the pilot I am today,” said Group Captain Indranil Nandy of the Indian Air Force.

Future

India has signed an agreement to buy 87 Tejas from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to increase its domestic capacity. However, deliveries have been affected due to delays in U.S. engine supplies. Meanwhile, a new agreement has been signed to purchase 97 more Tejas on Thursday. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2027.

Also, the Air Force is considering a proposal to manufacture Rafale locally in partnership with French company Dassault Aviation. The US has also shown interest in supplying F-35 stealth fighters to India, but New Delhi has given clear indications that it will still give priority to domestic production.

Today, Cuba, Syria, Yemen, North Korea and some African countries continue to fly upgraded versions of the MiG-21. But with the formal conclusion of its long journey in India, this famous but controversial fighter will be left in the pages of history.