The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to retire its remaining MiG-21 fighter jets by September 2025, marking the end of an era for the iconic aircraft that has served the nation for over six decades. First inducted in 1963, the MiG-21 has been the backbone of the IAF's combat fleet and has played a significant role in various conflicts, from the 1965 war with Pakistan to the 1999 Kargil War. Over 870 MiG-21s were inducted into the IAF, with nearly 600 produced domestically by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

A Timeline of MiG-21's Service and Retirement:

• 1963: The MiG-21 is first inducted into the Indian Air Force, marking India's entry into the supersonic jet age. The aircraft was acquired as part of a deal with the erstwhile Soviet Union.
• 1965-1999: The MiG-21 serves in multiple military conflicts, including the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War, the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, and the 1999 Kargil War. It played a crucial role in providing India with a technological edge in aerial combat during the 1960s and 70s and was later upgraded to perform multi-role duties.
• 2006: Over 100 MiG-21s with the IAF were upgraded to the Bison variant, featuring advanced missiles and radars and better avionics.
• 2017-2024: At least four MiG-21 squadrons were retired from service.
• October 2023: Number 4 Squadron, known as "Oorials" of the IAF, based at Air Force Station Uttarlai (Barmer), Rajasthan, decommissioned their MiG 21 and Su-30 MKI. The MiG-21 fighter aircraft from the No 4 squadron flew for one last time over the town of Barmer in Rajasthan.
• May 2023: A MiG-21 fighter jet crashed near Rajasthan's Suratgarh, killing three civilians. This incident led the IAF to temporarily ground the entire MiG-21 fleet.
• July 2025: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) were handed over the first set of wing assemblies for Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A, produced by Larsen & Toubro.
• September 2025: The Indian Air Force is set to retire its remaining MiG-21 fighter jets. The last MiG-21 squadron, the 23 Squadron or "Panthers", is stationed at the Nal Air Base in Rajasthan and will be decommissioned on September 19 at a ceremonial event in Chandigarh.

The "Flying Coffin" and Safety Concerns:

Despite its distinguished service, the MiG-21 has also been unofficially dubbed the "flying coffin" due to a high number of accidents over the years. These accidents have been attributed to various factors, including technical defects, human error, and bird hits. The high accident rate has raised concerns about the safety of the aircraft and has contributed to the decision to retire the fleet.

Replacement with Tejas LCA Mark 1A:

The MiG-21s will be replaced by the indigenously developed Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A. This transition marks a significant step towards India's self-reliance in defense production. The Tejas LCA Mark 1A is a modern, multi-role fighter jet that is expected to provide the IAF with enhanced capabilities. The Indian Air Force will get at least half a dozen Tejas Light Combat Aircraft by March 2026.

The retirement of the MiG-21 marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Indian Air Force. While the aircraft has had its share of controversies, it has also played a vital role in safeguarding the nation's skies. As the IAF bids farewell to the "flying coffin", it looks forward to a future with more modern and capable aircraft like the Tejas LCA Mark 1A.