The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to retire its legendary MiG-21 fighter jets on September 26, marking the end of nearly six decades of operational service. The homegrown Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A will replace the iconic fleet, which has been a cornerstone of India’s aerial defense since its induction in 1963. To honor its legacy, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh recently flew a commemorative sortie in the MiG-21.

According to Wing Commander Jaideep Singh, the MiG-21’s last recorded kill was during the 2019 Balakot operations when it downed a Pakistani F-16. This historic aerial combat, which took place over Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir on February 27, was executed by Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, who shot down the F-16 before his own MiG-21 Bison was hit, forcing him to eject and land in enemy territory. The aircraft was also deployed in an operational role earlier this year during Operation Sindoor.

The MiG-21’s combat record is unmatched, with kills spanning multiple generations of fighter jets, from the F-104 Starfighters during the 1971 Indo-Pak war to the F-16 in 2019. “The way the Indian Air Force has utilized the MiG-21 operationally, none of the air forces in the world have done so,” said Wing Commander Singh.

Inducted in 1963, the MiG-21 became India’s first supersonic fighter jet, with its inaugural squadron, 28 Squadron, nicknamed “First Supersonics.” Over the years, it played a pivotal role in every major conflict, including the 1965 and 1971 wars. Its strike on the Governor’s residence in Dhaka during the 1971 war is considered a turning point that accelerated Pakistan’s surrender, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.

With its retirement, the MiG-21 leaves behind a remarkable legacy of valor and operational excellence, earning its place as one of the most battle-tested aircraft in IAF history.