(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
As the Indian Air Force bids farewell to its legendary MiG-21 fighter jets today in Chandigarh, veteran pilots are sharing heartfelt stories of the aircraft that shaped generations and protected the nation for decades.
The decommissioning ceremony marks the end of an era for the MiG-21, India’s first supersonic fighter, which has served since 1963. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to attend the event. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Singh shared his excitement: “Today, 26th September, I shall be in Chandigarh. Shall attend the Decommissioning ceremony of IAF MiG-21. Looking forward to it.”
Retired Group Captain Malik, who flew the MiG-21 for nearly 24 years across its three main versions, called the moment deeply emotional. Speaking to , he said, “It was my life, and now it is going to be a part of my life. It’s a mixed feeling… Each moment is emotional when we are bidding farewell to this aircraft, and I swear there is nothing better than this aircraft.”
The MiG-21 has been the backbone of the Indian Air Force, earning its nickname “First Supersonics” with the 28 Squadron based in Chandigarh. Pilots remember it as a tough but rewarding machine that trained countless aviators and saw intense combat.
During the 1971 war with Pakistan, MiG-21s played a key role, striking the Governor’s residence in Dhaka and helping force Pakistan’s surrender. The jets downed enemy fighters like the F-104 that year. Fast-forward to 2019, and they even took out an F-16. The aircraft also supported operations in the Kargil War, proving its staying power over six decades.
As India shifts to modern fighter jets, the MiG-21 leaves behind an unmatched legacy of service and bravery in the skies.
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