Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday bid farewell to the MiG-21, the country’s first supersonic fighter jet, after 62 years of distinguished service. From the 1965 and 1971 wars to the 1999 Kargil conflict and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, the legendary Soviet-origin aircraft played a pivotal role in shaping India’s air power. The decommissioning ceremony was held at Chandigarh Air Force Station, the same base where the jet was first inducted in 1963. Defence minister Rajnath Singh was the chief guest at the event.
From Induction to Legacy
The MiG-21 was first inducted in the early 1960s, with Dilbagh Singh — who later became IAF chief — leading the first squadron in Chandigarh. Over the years, the IAF procured more than 870 of these jets. Known for its speed and agility, the MiG-21 became the backbone of India’s air fleet, but also earned the grim nickname “flying coffin” due to its safety record. Despite this, it gave India a decisive advantage in multiple conflicts and remained in frontline service for over six decades.
Emotional Farewell and Memories
At the ceremony, IAF personnel paid tribute to the aircraft with the words: “Six decades of service, countless tales of courage, a warhorse that carried pride of a nation into the skies.” Retired Wing Commander Avinash Chikte, who logged 2,255 hours flying the MiG-21, described it as a “majestic, dazzling beauty” and likened it to a loyal companion. “She is like a mother, a friend, a guide… the one who brings you home safe,” he said. In a poetic farewell, he added, “My MiG and I, together we shall fly, even after the final goodbye. Dasvidaniya.”
