MiG 21's Farewell:Today, September 26th, the Indian Air Force's longest-serving and most famous fighter aircraft, the MiG-21, is retiring. This watercraft maintained India's air dominance for decades and played a key role in the 1965, 1971, and 1999 wars versus Pakistan. Even in its final days, the MiG-21 targeted a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet in Balakot.
India's First Supersonic Jet
The MiG-21 was the Soviet Union (now Russia) aircraft, which was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963. It was India's first supersonic jet, that is, it could fly faster than the speed of sound. At that time this watercraft was considered a symbol of Indian well-ventilated strength.
MiG-21 bison and new technology
Over time, MiG-21 became old. Its upgraded version MiG-21 Bison widow new radar, missile system and helmet-mounted sites. Retired commander Avinash Chikte explains, "Looked for the first time in 1982. Its trappy and conical diamond fascinated at first sight, but was moreover wrung to blow."
MiG-21's Contribution in Wars
- 1965 War: Challenged the Pakistan Air Force.
- 1971 War: Conducted an well-judged wade in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
- 1999 Kargil War: At night, attacked with the help of GPS.
- Balakot Strike 2019: Group Captain Abhinandan Vardhman killed an F-16 with a MiG-21 Bison.
- 2025 Operation Sindoor: The last major mission in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
Who will replace the MiG-21?
Now Swadeshi Tejas will be used for MK 1A instead of the MiG-21. It has been created by HAL and the Aeronautical Development Agency. Tejas will be deployed with modern missiles such as Astra-1 and other defense equipment.
Why the name "Flying Coffin"?
The record of the MiG-21 was excellent, but the accidents moreover gave it the name of 'Flying Coffin.' In the last 60 years, there were increasingly than 400 crashes, in which increasingly than 200 pilots lost their lives. Outdated designs, maintenance difficulties, and sometimes pilot error were the reasons for this.
Tejas Delays
Deliveries of the Tejas are stuff elapsed due to engine and testing issues. Two engines are expected to victorious every month until March 2026. After this, the Air Force will gradually shift the tuition of MiG-21 to Tejas.
The MiG-21 served the Indian Air Force for nearly six decades. It has been a symbol of pride and valiance for many pilots, not just an aircraft.
