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Key Points

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over the emotional decommissioning ceremony for the IAF's MiG-21 fleet. He emphasized that the aircraft was far more than just a machine, calling it a living testament to the long-standing relationship between India and Russia. The jet concluded an illustrious 63-year service career that saw action in every major conflict from 1971 to recent operations. Its retirement marks the end of an era for a legendary aircraft that became a symbol of national pride and military strength.

Key Points: Rajnath Singh Bids Farewell to MiG-21 Fighter Jet After 63 Years

  • MiG-21 served the Indian Air Force for a remarkable 63 years since its 1963 induction
  • The fighter jet played crucial roles in conflicts from the 1971 war to the Kargil conflict
  • It was also deployed in modern operations like the Balakot airstrike and Operation Sindoor
  • Air Chief Marshal A P Singh led the final sortie in a symbolic Badal formation flypast
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Testimony of India-Russia relations: Rajnath Singh bids farewell to fighter jet MiG-21

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh decommissions the IAF's MiG-21 fleet, hailing it as a symbol of India-Russia ties and its valiant service from 1971 to Balakot.

"MiG-21 is not merely an aircraft, it is a testimony of India-Russia relations - Rajnath Singh"

Chandigarh, September 26

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday, during the decommissioning ceremony of the Indian Air Force's MiG-21 fighter jet in Chandigarh, stated that the aircraft was a testament to the relations between India and Russia.

"MiG-21 is not merely an aircraft, it is a testimony of India-Russia relations," Singh said during the ceremony.

Inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963, the MiG-21 concludes its remarkable 63 years of service today.

The Minister also recalled the contributions of the fighter jet during various conflicts ranging from the 1971 war to the Kargil conflict, and from the Balakot airstrike to Operation Sindoor hailed it as a tremendous strength for India's armed forces.

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh led the last sortie of the MiG-21 today as the legendary aircraft fleet was officially decommissioned.

The MiG-21s flew in the Badal formation of three aircraft in an inverted 'V' configuration. BAe Hawk Mk132 aircraft of the Indian Air Force's Surya Kiran Acrobatics team performed manoeuvres during the decommissioning ceremony.

Following a water cannon salute, in a symbolic gesture, the Air Chief handed over the aircraft's Form 700 logbook to the Defence Minister, marking the end of an era.

During the ceremony, he said that the aircraft had witnessed several heroic deeds and had played an important role in multiple wars and missions.

Addressing the decommissioning ceremony of MiG-21, Rajnath Singh said, "For a long time, MiG-21 has been a witness to numerous heroic deeds. Its contribution has not been limited to a single event or a single war. From the war of 1971 to the Kargil conflict, or from the Balakot airstrike to Operation Sindoor, there has not been a moment when the MiG-21 has not provided tremendous strength to our armed forces.. "

Singh remembered the MiG-21's important role during the 1971 war, including its attack on the Governor's House in Dhaka.He called its retirement a farewell to a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and national pride.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
My father was an IAF technician who worked on MiG-21s in the 80s. This aircraft holds so many memories for our family. Emotional moment for all defence families.
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Michael C
While the MiG-21 served India well, it's good to see modernization with Rafales and Tejas. Safety of our pilots should be the top priority.
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Ananya R
Russia has been a reliable partner for India's defence needs. The MiG-21 symbolizes this strong relationship. Hope we continue to maintain these strategic ties.
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Sarah B
The water cannon salute and handing over the logbook - such poignant moments. The MiG-21 truly deserves this honorable farewell after serving through so many conflicts.
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Vikram M
From 1971 war to Balakot strikes, this aircraft has been part of India's proud military history. Time to preserve some of these in museums for future generations to see.

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