Adieu MiG 21!

MiG 21, the iconic fighter jet of the IAF, made its last flight yesterday. 

Aircraft procured by India since 1960s.

For long the primary aircraft of the IAF, the aircraft was decommissioned after serving the country for more than six decades, yesterday, 26 Sep 2025.

Played key roles in wars with Pakistan

MiG-21, inducted into the IAF in the 1960s, played crucial roles in the India-Pakistan wars of 1965, 1971, and 1999, as well as in the 2019 Balakot air strikes. The mighty machine was a symbol of India's pride. The decommissioning ceremony featured aerial displays including formation take-offs by MiG-21s.

A workhorse with troubled safety record

* The ceremonial switch-off of six MiG-21 aircraft in the presence of dignitaries marked the culmination 

   of the aircraft's operational service.

* While it was hailed as a "workhorse" for its long years of service, the Soviet-era interceptor had a 

    troubled safety record and was involved in multiple crashes, earning it the nickname "flying coffin".

870 MiG-21 fighter air

My take

Adieu MiG-21! We have long and wonderful memories of this fine aircraft who safeguarded our skies and was the pride of the IAF. You shall always be remembered with pride.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, sent all my morning messages, switched on the hymns on the home theatre, lit up the lamp in the puja room and opened up the house for the day.

Made our morning cuppa. The sister came an hour late thanks to the incessant rain.

A quiet Saturday.