The Indian Air Force famous fighter aircraft MiG-21 has now officially retired. On 26 September 2025, a grand farewell ceremony took place at Chandigarh Air Force Station. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of Army and Navy, six former Air Force chief, ex -servicemen and their families arrived on the occasion. The ceremony was a emotional moment to salute the bravery story of MiG-21.
Last flight in the sky
The ceremony started with the arrival of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. After that the Akash Ganga Parachute team performed the exciting skidving show. Then MiG-21 flew into the sky. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh himself flew Solo in Badal Formation. The air warrior drill team showed a decorated drill.
Also read: Will go to the museum or in junk … Learn what will happen to 28 MiG-21 fighter jets retired from Air Force
The flypate of Badal Formation was a sign of the beginning of the day. This was followed by a similated dogfite sequence. In this, six Jaguar aircraft tried to attack on the base, but MiG-21 defenders stopped them. It showed the strength of the battle of MiG-21.
The panther formation had two LCAs (Light Combat Aircraft) with MiG-21. The LCA indicated to replace the MiG-21 by flying at a height. The Suryakaran aerobatic team did a colorful show in the sky. Finally six MiG-21 got a water canon salute. After the engine stopped, the pilot landed and handed over the form 700 logbook to the Air Chief. The ceremony ended with the special day cover release, which was in memory of MiG-21.
ALSO READ: India’s first supersonic jet, history of valor in war, 60 years … MiG-21 in Farewell Photos
Rajnath Singh said that the legacy of MiG-21 will survive in search of self-sufficiency in defense of India. The aircraft symbolizes the continuity of courage, discipline and patriotism, which will inspire the development of indigenous platforms such as LCA-Tejas and upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
MiG-21’s brave saga: witness of wars
The ceremony was a chance to remember the legacy of the Battle of MiG-21. From the 1965 war to Operation Sindoor, this aircraft was always the strength of the country. Dogfite between Jaguar and MiG-21 was attached to the 2019 Balakot attack, where Wing Commander Abhinandan Vardhman killed Pakistani F-16 from MiG-21.
ALSO READ: MiG-21 showed fire in the sky before farewell, Air Force Chief also flew
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh said that for a long time, MiG-21 has been a witness to many heroic works. Its role is not limited to any one event or war. From the 1971 Battle to Kargil, from Balakot Aerustrike to Operation Sindoor, MiG-21 has given tremendous strength to our forces.
MiG-21’s contribution to history
After joining the Air Force in 1963, MiG-21 changed India’s military story. In the 1965 war, Pakistani bases were destroyed. In the 1971 war, bombs were dropped at the Governor House of Dhaka. Pakistani F-16 dropped in 2019. Today’s farewell is the end of a period.
Also read: MiG-21 history is not the only accident … there is a long series of valor and victory
Tejas will become a new partner
The last two MiG-21 squadrons retired, now the Air Force has 29 fighter squadrons left, while the need is 42. The Air Force will now increase strength with LCA Tejas MK1A, Tejas MK2 and new platforms. These aircraft are ready to fill the MiG-21 deficiency. The farewell of MiG-21 is sad, but its story will always be remembered. This aircraft not only flew into the sky, but became immortal in defense of the country.
—- End —-