The fighter jet has been retired after 62 years of service to the South Asian nations air force

The Indian Air Force (IAF) bid farewell to the legendary MiG-21 fighter jet in a ceremonial event on Friday, marking the end of a 62-year service career.

The MiG-21, which has been a cornerstone of the IAF's fighter fleet, was originally developed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau in the Soviet Union. The aircraft was introduced to the IAF in 1963, making it India's first supersonic fighter jet.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, who attended the official decommissioning ceremony, said the aircraft is deeply embedded in the memories and emotions of India.

"Every child in India knows about the MiG-21," he said. "For all of us, this is not just a fighter jet, but rather a family member with whom we have a deep attachment."

Singh added that the MiG-21 has "shaped our confidence," "strengthened our strategy," and helped India "establish ourselves" on the global stage.

The defense minister called the MiG-21 proof of "deep India-Russia ties." He added, "for a long time, the MiG-21 has been a witness to numerous heroic deeds. Its contribution has not been limited to a single event or a single war."

As part of the retirement ceremony, six MiG-21 Bison aircraft, led by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, flew over Chandigarh and a water cannon salute was given to the jets on landing.

Initially purchased from the USSR, MiG-21s were later produced under license by India's state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Over time, India operated more than 850 MiG-21s, including variants such as the Type 77, Type 96, MiG-21 Bis, and the upgraded MiG-21 Bison. The MiG-21 was admired for its speed, agility, and reliability.

The aircraft has played a key role in Indian military campaigns, including the 1965 and 1971 wars against Pakistan.

(RT.com)