Chandigarh, Sep 26 (NationPress) Reflecting on the remarkable performance of the Soviet-era fighter MiG-21 across various war fronts, including its role in Operation Sindoor, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Friday that the aircraft's legacy will continue to resonate in India's journey towards Aatmanirbharta in defence.

“The MiG-21 represents the essence of courage, discipline, and patriotism that will inspire the creation of indigenous platforms like LCA-Tejas and the forthcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA),” he mentioned during the decommissioning ceremony of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) MiG-21 at the Chandigarh airbase.

This ceremony marked the conclusion of the MiG-21's operational journey, ending a remarkable chapter spanning over sixty years in IAF history.

The Defence Minister emphasized that “when the world looks at India tomorrow, it should see a nation that began with the MiG-21 and now leads with advanced defence technologies.” Rajnath Singh honored the valor and commitment of the IAF air warriors, who have safeguarded the nation’s sovereignty through courage and sacrifice.

He paid a heartfelt tribute to the MiG-21, describing it as more than just an aircraft but a beacon of India’s emergence in military aviation, a protective shield of national defence, and a loyal companion of the Armed Forces since its introduction in 1963.

Rajnath Singh noted that over 11,500 MiG-21s were produced globally, with around 850 serving in the IAF, underscoring the aircraft's popularity, reliability, and multifaceted capabilities. He reminisced about the MiG-21's notable achievements in various conflicts, from its critical role in the 1971 war attacking the Governor’s House in Dhaka under challenging conditions, to its participation in the Kargil conflict, the Balakot airstrike, and Operation Sindoor.

“In every significant mission, the MiG-21 proudly carried the Tricolour. Its contributions extend beyond any single event or battle; it has been a cornerstone of India’s air power for decades,” he stated.

Highlighting the aircraft's adaptability, Rajnath Singh referred to the MiG-21 as the “bird of all seasons,” excelling in various roles, including as an interceptor, a ground-attack platform, a frontline air defence jet, and a trainer aircraft that shaped numerous pilots.

“The foundation of our skilled fighter pilots was established on the MiG-21. Generations of air warriors learned to fly, adapt, and thrive in the most demanding situations on this legendary platform. Its contribution to formulating India’s air strategy is immense,” he asserted. He further added that the MiG-21 surpassed the expectations of its designers and operators, evolving from a 1950s-era jet into an upgraded version known by names such as Trishul, Vikram, Badal, and Bison.

He noted that this adaptability is what kept the MiG-21 at the core of the IAF for so long. “The MiG-21 taught us to embrace change with confidence. Today, India’s defence ecosystem—our research labs, academia, DPSUs, private sector, startups, and youth—are collaboratively working to carry this legacy forward,” he emphasized.

The Defence Minister also addressed common misconceptions about the aircraft's age. He clarified that while the initial MiG-21s introduced in the 1960s and 70s were retired long ago, the aircraft currently in service are at most 40 years old, a typical lifespan for fighter jets globally. He highlighted that the MiG-21 underwent continuous enhancements with advanced radars, avionics, and weapon systems, thanks to the efforts of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Praising HAL engineers and scientists, he remarked that their tireless efforts kept the aircraft technologically relevant and combat-ready for decades.

Rajnath Singh insisted that this farewell should not be perceived merely as a ceremonial military act, but as a reflection of India’s civilizational ethos.

Drawing from Indian philosophy, he stated, “Our ancient culture teaches us that divinity exists not only in living beings but also in non-living entities. Just as we honor the earth, rivers, trees, and tools that assist us, today’s farewell to the MiG-21 is a gesture of gratitude towards a machine that safeguarded our skies and instilled confidence in our citizens for over 60 years.” He likened this moment to the rituals conducted for weapons during Dussehra, symbolizing a continuity of respect towards all that empowers the nation.

Highlighting the significance of Chandigarh as the venue, the Defence Minister stated that it was here that India’s supersonic journey commenced with the induction of the MiG-21 into No. 28 Squadron, the ‘First Supersonics.’ “This ground has witnessed a glorious chapter that redefined India’s air power. Today, history comes full circle as we bid farewell to that very aircraft from this location,” he added.

The ceremony featured a magnificent flypast led by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, a rare and meaningful tribute reflecting the IAF's deep respect for the legendary aircraft.

The event included a series of aerial performances, such as a skydiving demonstration by Akash Ganga, formation take-offs by MiG-21s, the Badal and Panther formations, and precision drill movements by the Air Warrior Drill Team, Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team, along with a symbolic flypast featuring Jaguars and MiG-21s, recreating a Combat Air Patrol. A joint flypast of MiG-21 and LCA Tejas highlighted the transition from the iconic Bison to the indigenous Tejas.

A ceremonial switch-off of six MiG-21 aircraft in front of dignitaries marked the conclusion of the aircraft's service. The aircraft document Form-700 was handed over to the Chief of the Air Staff by officers and airmen of 23 and the Commanding Officer of 28 Squadron.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO Samir V. Kamat, and Financial Advisor (Defence Services) Mayank Sharma were also present at the event.

The gathering included senior officers of the IAF, veterans, engineers, technicians, ground crew, and air warriors who have served with the MiG-21 throughout its extensive operational life.