Key of Contents
On 26 September 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) formally retired its fleet of MiG-21 fighter jets, marking the historic MiG-21 Retirement after more than six decades of service. Known as “flying coffins” in later years due to safety concerns, the MiG-21 nevertheless remained a backbone of India’s aerial prowess for generations.
This article examines why the retirement was inevitable, how the IAF managed this transition, and what it means for India’s defence future.
Why was the MiG-21 Retirement?
Declining performance and aging systems
The MiG-21 was first inducted into the IAF in the early 1960s. Over its lifetime, though upgraded (notably to the “Bison” variant), many limitations remained. Its single engine was prone to unpredictable flameouts, a notable risk for a single-engine fighter.
High accident rate
Over its six decades of service, India witnessed over 500 MiG-21 crashes, leading to the deaths of at least 170 pilots. Many critics cited this as a key argument for retirement.
Squadron strength shortfall
With the MiG-21 retirement, the IAF’s total combat squadrons dropped to 29, well short of the sanctioned 42 required for realistic operational readiness.
Delays in replacement induction
Newer aircraft, both indigenous and imported, were delayed — notably the HAL Tejas, and procurement from global defence players. The inability to field replacements in time forced the MiG-21 to stay in service far beyond its safe margin.
Historical significance of the MiG-21 in India
Wars and operations
- 1965 & 1971 India-Pakistan Wars: The MiG-21 played interceptor and strike roles.
- Kargil conflict (1999): It supported ground operations with close air support.
- Balakot airstrikes (2019): The MiG-21 tracked adversary aircraft during this high-voltage aerial standoff.
Legacy and nickname
Over time, especially due to accidents, the MiG-21 earned the morbid moniker “flying coffin”. Still, many in the IAF remember it as a workhorse of unmatched reliability in earlier decades.
Upgrade attempts
To prolong life, many MiG-21s were upgraded to the “Bison” standard, with newer avionics, radar, and missile compatibility. Yet, these upgrades could not fully compensate for fundamental design and safety limitations.
The ceremonial farewell
Location & participants
The decommissioning took place at the Chandigarh Air Force Station, the same place where MiG-21s were first inducted into IAF service.
Top dignitaries, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, CDS Anil Chauhan, and the three service chiefs attended.
Final sorties and ceremonies
- Pilot Priya Sharma became the last woman pilot to fly a MiG-21 during the final ceremony.
- Air Chief Marshal A P Singh flew one of the concluding sorties.
- Six MiG-21 jets of No. 23 Squadron performed the last flypast and received a water cannon salute upon landing.
- The handing over of the Form 700 logbook tradition marked the final symbolic act in the retirement.
What’s next for the IAF?
Induction of Tejas and beyond
The IAF has plans to induct hundreds of Tejas Mk1A/II fighters from HAL to fill the shortfall.
Additionally, procurement of foreign aircraft (such as Rafale) and development of Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) are part of the roadmap.
Squadron strength recovery
Efforts are underway to gradually bring squadron count closer to the ideal 42 mark.
Upgrades to existing fleet
The IAF has a “Super-30” upgrade programme for Sukhoi Su-30MKI jets to extend their life and combat relevance.
Challenges ahead
Supply chain constraints (e.g., engines, avionics), timelines of indigenous programs, and procurement red tape remain obstacles.
People Also Ask
Why is the MiG-21 being retired now?
Because its aging design, rising accident risks, and inability to safely meet modern combat demands made continued deployment impractical. Delays in replacement fleet induction accelerated the retirement.
How long did the MiG-21 serve in India?
Roughly 62 years, from the early 1960s to its final retirement in September 2025.
How many MiG-21s crashed in India?
Over 500 crashes have been recorded during its service life, contributing to at least 170 pilot fatalities.
What aircraft will replace the MiG-21 in IAF service?
The HAL Tejas Mk1A, Tejas Mk II, and imported fighters like Rafale or future acquisitions will fill the gap.
What was the final ceremony like?
It featured final sorties, a flypast by six MiG-21 jets, a water cannon salute, and formal handing over of logbooks. Top defence dignitaries and pilots participated.
FAQs
Q1: Did the retirement of MiG-21 weaken India’s air defence immediately?
Yes, in the short term the IAF’s squadron strength dropped below ideal. But with parallel induction of newer jets and upgrades underway, the gap is expected to be bridged gradually.
Q2: Why couldn’t the MiG-21 be kept longer with upgrades?
Fundamental design limitations—like its single engine, structural fatigue, and high accident risk—meant upgrades had diminishing returns beyond a point.
Q3: Did other countries retire the MiG-21?
Yes, many nations phased out the MiG-21 decades ago as more advanced fighters replaced it.
Q4: How significant was the MiG-21 to Indian aviation history?
It was India’s first supersonic jet fighter and served across generations of pilots — seeing conflict, technological shifts, and the evolution of the IAF.
Q5: When will the IAF reach full squadron strength again?
There is no fixed date publicly disclosed, but the goal is to steadily approach sanctioned numbers over coming years through a mix of indigenous and imported platforms.