Archive · 26 Sep 2025
MiG-21s Retired After Six Decades of Service in Indian Air Force
The Indian Air Force said goodbye to its MiG-21 fighter jets after they served for many years.
A special event was held in Chandigarh to mark the end of an era for the jets that were first used in the 1960s.
These jets helped in important wars like the 1971 war and the Kargil conflict.
The MiG-21 will be replaced by the LCA Tejas.
More than 11,500 of these planes were made worldwide.
The MiG-21 was a key part of India's air power.
The MiG-21 fighter jets were retired after over six decades of service.
A farewell ceremony was held in Chandigarh.
The jets were inducted into the IAF in the 1960s.
MiG-21s played a role in various conflicts, including the 1971 war, Kargil, and Balakot airstrikes.
The LCA Tejas is set to replace the MiG-21.
- Who
- Indian Air Force (IAF)
- What
- Retirement of MiG-21 fighter jets
- When
- September 2025
- Where
- Chandigarh
- Why
- To retire the MiG-21 fleet after six decades of service
- Aircraft Retired
- MiG-21
- First Induction
- 1960s
- Farewell Location
- Chandigarh
- Replaced By
- LCA Tejas
- Key Roles
- 1971 & Kargil Wars, Balakot Airstrike
- Total Produced
- Over 11,500
- Aircraft in IAF
- 850
Sources
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