The Indian Air Force (IAF) today marked the end of a historic chapter as it retired the iconic MiG-21 fighter jets after 62 years of service. The grand farewell ceremony, held at Chandigarh Air Force Station, was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, senior Air Force officials, and veterans who had flown and maintained these remarkable machines over the decades.

As the jets soared into the skies for their final formation flight, they carried with them the memories of India’s journey from fledgling air power to a formidable force in the region.

The MiG-21’s induction into the IAF in 1963 heralded a new era, the dawn of the jet age for India. At a time when the nation was still recovering from the trauma of the 1962 war with China, the arrival of these Russian-origin supersonic fighters was both a strategic and psychological boost. For a country then grappling with limited resources and a largely outdated military inventory, the MiG-21 brought speed, agility, and modern warfare capabilities that dramatically altered the balance of power in South Asia.

The farewell ceremony today was marked by poignant symbolism. The six remaining aircraft from the IAF’s last operational MiG-21 squadron, the Panthers (No. 23 Squadron), participated in a final formation flight, cutting across the sky in a majestic Vic pattern. Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, personally piloted one of these aircraft, call sign ‘Badal 3,’ in a tribute to the legacy of the fighter he first flew decades ago.

The jets were given a traditional water cannon salute upon their return, a moving gesture to honour their decades of service.

The day’s events also featured the Akash Ganga skydiving team leaping from 8,000 feet, a precision display by the Air Warrior Drill Team, and a spectacular flypast, encapsulating both the pride and solemnity of the moment. For many in........

© News18