Archive · 28 Sep 2025
MiG-21 Retirement Highlights Defence Procurement Shortcomings
The Indian Air Force has retired its MiG-21 fighter jets after 62 years.
These jets, initially designed to shoot down other planes, have served in many wars and conflicts.
While reliable for years, the jets gained the nickname 'flying coffin' due to high crash rates attributed to the planes age and outdated technology.
The retirement leads to concerns about the reduction in the Air Force’s fighter strength.
The government needs to replace these jets and upgrade the air force.
The MiG-21 fighter jets were retired after 62 years of service.
The aircraft served in conflicts like the 1971 and Kargil wars.
More than 850 MiG-21s of several variants were inducted into the IAF.
High crash rates led to the nickname "flying coffin".
Retirement underscores the need to address declining squadron strength.
- Who
- Indian Air Force and its MiG-21 fighter jets
- What
- Retirement of the MiG-21 after 62 years of service.
- When
- Recently
- Where
- India
- Why
- Marks a need to address defense readiness concerns and replace aging equipment.
Concerns over dwindling squadron size
Need for modernization and investment
Defense Readiness
Concerns over dwindling squadron size
The reduction in the number of fighter squadrons highlights that the IAF has to grapple with.
Need for modernization and investment
The focus should be on fast tracking procurement of the needed aircraft for an effective defence strategy.
Safety
Concerns over dwindling squadron size
MiG-21’s service record highlighted a high number of fatal accidents.
Need for modernization and investment
Investment in new and modern technologies will solve safety concerns.
- Aircraft
- MiG-21
- Service Years
- 62 years
- First Introduced
- 1963
- Fatal Accidents
- 482
- Fatalities in Crashes
- 171 pilots and 39 civilians
- Current Squadron Strength
- 29
- Sanctioned Squadron Strength (2012)
- 42
