Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Indian Air Force to Retire MiG-21 Fighter Jets
The Indian Air Force is saying goodbye to its old MiG-21 fighter jets.
These planes have been flying for over 60 years and are now being replaced with newer models.
The retirement of the last two squadrons is happening in September.
These jets were the first supersonic fighters for the IAF and were developed in the USSR.
While some people have called them unsafe due to accidents, the Air Force has kept them flying effectively for a long time.
Newer planes with advanced technology are needed for modern warfare.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is retiring its MiG-21 fighter jets.
The last two MiG-21 squadrons will be retired by September.
The MiG-21 is being replaced by the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mark-1A.
The MiG-21 has been in service for over 60 years.
The IAF inducted the MiG-21 as its first supersonic fighter in 1963.
- Who
- The Indian Air Force (IAF).
- What
- Retirement of the MiG-21 fighter-interceptor aircraft by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
- When
- The last two squadrons will be retired by September.
- Where
- Ceremonial decommissioning will be held at Chandigarh air base.
- Why
- To be replaced by newer aircraft with advanced technology.
Arguments Against the MiG-21's Safety
Arguments for the MiG-21's Continued Service
Aircraft safety
Arguments Against the MiG-21's Safety
Critics label the MiG-21 as the "Flying Coffin" due to a high number of crashes.
Arguments for the MiG-21's Continued Service
The IAF has maintained a low accident rate in recent years, indicating effective management and utilization of the dated inventory.
- Aircraft
- MiG-21
- Retirement Date
- September
- Replacement
- Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mark-1A
- First inducted
- 1963
- Manufacturer
- Mikoyan-Gurevich (MiG)
- Total Produced
- Approximately 11,680