Indian Air Force to Retire MIG-21 Fleet by September

Speedy Summary

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) will officially retire its final MiG-21 Bison jets in September 2025, marking the end of a six-decade service as their induction in 1963.
• A ceremonial send-off is planned at the Chandigarh air base,according to a senior Defence official.
• The MiG-21 Bison jets will be replaced by the indigenously developed Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft as part of modernization efforts.
• Historically, MiG-21 jets were operated by the IAF’s 23 Squadron (Panthers) and have been instrumental in India’s major military conflicts including:

– the wars with Pakistan in 1965 and 1971.
– The Kargil conflict (1999).
– Balakot airstrikes against terror targets (2019).
– Operation Sindoor and other engagements.

• Notable usage includes Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman flying a MiG-21 Bison during the balakot airstrikes in 2019.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The retirement of India’s last fleet of MiG-21 Bisons signals a notable milestone for the IAF, transitioning from older soviet-era technology to modern indigenous advancements like Tejas Mk1A fighter jets. This progress underscores India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen self-reliance through domestic defense production under initiatives like “Make In India.” While the MIG aircraft had served valiantly over multiple conflicts spanning decades, its aging technology made replacement inevitable for ensuring operational efficiency and pilot safety.

The introduction of Tejas Mk1A reflects progress not only technologically but also strategically, as India seeks to align defense capabilities with current geopolitical realities. A seamless transition from legacy systems to advanced platforms will be critical for maintaining readiness alongside an evolving global security landscape.

For further details: Source on The Hindu