The Indian Air Force (IAF) is preparing to bid a final farewell to the legendary MiG-21 fighter jets this September 2025, marking the end of an iconic 62-year chapter in Indian military aviation history.
Introduced in 1963, the MiG-21—nicknamed “Vikram” by its pilots—was India’s first supersonic jet, capable of flying at twice the speed of sound. For over six decades, it remained the backbone of India’s air defense, witnessing every major conflict and transformation in the IAF’s journey.
A Jet That Shaped Generations of Fighter Pilots
Over the years, nearly 900 MiG-21s were inducted into the IAF. The aircraft trained multiple generations of fighter pilots and was pivotal during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, where it earned its combat reputation. One of its most memorable moments in recent history came in 2019, when Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman flew a MiG-21 Bison to intercept a Pakistani F-16, marking the aircraft’s relevance even in modern-day aerial warfare.
Why Retire Now?
Despite its glorious past, the MiG-21 has also been a subject of criticism due to a string of crashes in recent decades. As aviation technology advanced, the MiG-21’s limitations became evident. The IAF has gradually been phasing them out in favor of newer and more capable fighters like the Rafale, Tejas, and Su-30 MKI.
Currently, the IAF’s No. 4 Squadron stationed at Uttarlai airbase in Rajasthan is the last unit operating MiG-21s. Their final ceremonial flight this September will mark the closure of one of the world’s longest-serving fighter aircraft legacies.
A Legacy That Will Never Fade
Even as it retires, the MiG-21 will remain etched in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and military historians. Its sleek delta wings, sonic booms, and unforgettable roar symbolize an era of Indian air power that paved the way for the future.