India’s iconic MiG-21 fighter jet was officially retired from service in September 2025 after over six decades of service, with a final ceremony held at the Chandigarh Air Force Station. The aircraft will now be preserved and restored as part of the Indian Air Force’s Heritage Flight program to celebrate its history.
India’s “love” for the MiG-21 is rooted in its long, distinguished service as the backbone of the Indian Air Force (IAF), its combat history in wars, and the deep connection IAF pilots developed with the agile, supersonic aircraft, despite its reputation as the “flying coffin”. The plane’s speed and affordability made it a crucial acquisition in 1962, while its versatility in various roles—from dogfighting to ground attack—cemented its iconic status. For many pilots, the MiG-21 was more than a machine; it was a partner in flight, and its recent retirement has been met with significant emotional farewells from the air force community.
Reasons for the affection and legacy
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Combat and war history: The MiG-21 played a pivotal role in several conflicts, notably in the 1971 war where it achieved the first supersonic jet-on-jet kills against Pakistani F-104s and F-86s and carried out the historic strike on the governor’s house in Dhaka. It also saw action in the 1999 Kargil War.
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Speed and agility: The aircraft was chosen for its speed and agility, which were crucial for matching Pakistan’s F-104 Starfighters. Its supersonic capability and quick acceleration were iconic to pilots, though they also required a deep understanding of its unusual flight characteristics.
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Versatility: The MiG-21 evolved from its original interceptor role to perform a wide range of missions, from low-level night strikes to high-altitude reconnaissance, demonstrating its remarkable versatility.
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Pilot-aircraft bond: Many pilots describe a profound connection with the MiG-21. One pilot described it as feeling like the aircraft “wrapped itself around me” and being a partner in flight, a bond they express through deep emotional farewells as the aircraft is retired.
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Symbol of resilience: MiG-21 is seen by many as a symbol of the IAF’s resilience and professionalism, having served with distinction for over 60 years.
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Shaping national defense: The acquisition of the MiG-21 and the transfer of technology helped shape India’s defense ties with Russia and laid the foundation for its own aerospace industry.
At the retirement, the head of Indian Air Force Air Chief Marshal, A.P. Singh flew the last sortie.