Bikaner: As the Indian Air Force (IAF) prepares to retire the legendary MiG-21 Bison on September 26, its extraordinary combat record remains unmatched, with its final recorded kill being a Pakistani F-16 in 2019. The aircraft, inducted in 1963, has served as the backbone of India‘s aerial defense for nearly six decades.
Wing Commander Jaideep Singh reflected on the fighter jet’s storied history, highlighting its participation in every major air operation since its induction. Notably, during the post-Balakot air skirmish on February 27, 2019, Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16 before his MiG-21 was hit, forcing him to eject over Pakistan-occupied territory.
“The MiG-21 has a history of shooting down aircraft across generations,” said Wg Cdr Singh. “From the F-104s in the 1971 war to the F-16 in 2019, it has proven itself time and again. No other air force has operated this aircraft as extensively and effectively as the IAF.”
The MiG-21 was also operationally deployed in Operation Sindoor earlier in 2025, underlining its continued relevance even in its final years of service.
Singh emphasized the deep personal and institutional bond the IAF shares with the aircraft. “Almost every IAF pilot has flown the MiG-21 at some point in their career. It’s a rite of passage. We are all going to miss it.”
First inducted in 1963, the MiG-21 became India’s first supersonic fighter. The inaugural 28 Squadron, nicknamed First Supersonics, was raised in Chandigarh. Since then, the aircraft has played a critical role in multiple conflicts:
1965 War: Participated in combat operations soon after induction.
1971 War: Played a decisive role, including a strike on the Governor’s residence in Dhaka on December 14. The symbolic attack was followed by the governor’s resignation on December 15 and Pakistan’s surrender on December 16, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.
Throughout its operational life, the MiG-21 has evolved to meet modern requirements, despite being based on a Cold War-era design. Its longevity and adaptability have made it one of the most combat-tested platforms in IAF history.
To honour the MiG-21’s legacy, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh flew a ceremonial sortie in the iconic jet earlier this week.
As the IAF now looks ahead to a new era, the MiG-21 will be succeeded by the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk 1A, a homegrown fighter designed to carry the mantle forward.
After almost 60 years of dedicated service, the MiG-21 will take its final bow—but not without leaving behind a legacy that shaped the IAF and defined Indian air power for generations.
