India is closing a monumental chapter in its military aviation history with the final phase-out of the MiG-21 a fighter jet that once embodied the cutting edge of Indian air power. Introduced in 1963 and serving for over six decades, the MiG-21 was more than just a machine; it was a symbol of India’s emergence as a formidable regional air force.
Nicknamed the “Flying Coffin” in later years due to its high accident rate, the aircraft also earned reverence for its role in defending the nation during critical conflicts including the 1971 war and Kargil. Now, with its retirement underway, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is not only bidding farewell to an aging warhorse but also embracing a new generation of indigenous and high-tech fighters.
The MiG-21 Legacy: A Double-Edged Sword
A Game Changer in the 1960s
India was among the first nations outside the Soviet Union to adopt and locally manufacture the MiG-21. Its speed, agility, and relatively simple design gave the IAF a technological leap during the Cold War years. Throughout the 1970s and ’80s, it formed the backbone of India’s aerial defense.
Combat Proven
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During the 1971 war, MiG-21s downed several Pakistani F-104 Starfighters, helping India assert air dominance.
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In Kargil (1999), the aircraft was again in action, conducting critical missions in the tough Himalayan terrain.
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In 2019, a MiG-21 Bison piloted by Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16 — a feat that turned global eyes to the aging jet’s final triumph.
The Downsides
Over time, the MiG-21 couldn’t keep pace with advancements in avionics and air combat systems. Crashes became alarmingly frequent — over 400 accidents and more than 200 pilot fatalities were recorded. Despite life extension programs like the Bison upgrade, the aircraft was long overdue for retirement.
Phasing Out: Key Milestones and Timeline
The MiG-21’s retirement has been gradual but definitive. Originally expected to exit service by 2019, procurement delays in replacement aircraft extended its life until 2025.
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2022: No. 51 Squadron “Sword Arms” decommissioned
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2023–2024: No. 4 and No. 23 Squadrons retired
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2025 (Expected): Final decommissioning of remaining Bisons
“The IAF remains deeply proud of the MiG-21 legacy, but the time has come to give way to next-generation aircraft.” Indian Air Force Statement
What Will Replace the MiG-21?
India’s future air force is a mix of indigenous strength, global partnerships, and next-gen capabilities. Several aircraft are stepping in to fill the MiG-21’s shoes and more.
1. LCA Tejas – India’s Flagship Indigenous Fighter
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Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
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Lightweight, multi-role, and supersonic
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Equipped with AESA radar, fly-by-wire controls, and BVR missiles
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40 Tejas Mk1 already inducted; 83 Tejas Mk1A on order for 2024–2028
2. Su-30MKI – The Workhorse, Upgraded
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Russia-origin platform with local upgrades
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Planned enhancements: AESA radar, electronic warfare suite, and BrahMos-NG integration
3. Rafale – High-End Strike Capability
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36 aircraft already operational
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Known for superior agility, networked warfare, and long-range Meteor missiles
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Discussions ongoing for 26 additional units for the Navy
4. Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF)
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Designed by DRDO for carrier operations
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Expected induction: Post-2031
5. AMCA – India’s 5th Gen Stealth Jet
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Jointly developed by DRDO and HAL
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First flight targeted by 2028–2029
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Full production expected by early 2030s
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India’s answer to China’s J-20 and the U.S. F-35
6. MRFA – Global Fighter Tender
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Tender for 114 multirole fighters (~$20 billion)
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Contenders include: Rafale, F/A-18, F-15EX, Su-35, Eurofighter, Gripen-E
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Final decision pending due to financial and political factors
IAF’s Future Fleet by 2035 (Estimated)
| Aircraft | Estimated Number | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Su-30MKI (Upgraded) | 260+ | Heavy multirole |
| Rafale | 36–60 | Medium multirole |
| Tejas Mk1/Mk1A | 120+ | Light multirole |
| Tejas Mk2 | 100+ | Medium-weight fighter |
| AMCA (Gen 5) | 120+ by 2040 | Stealth, frontline multirole |
| MRFA (Global Tender) | 114 | Mixed-origin multirole |
| Mirage/Jaguar | Phasing out | Legacy (until ~2030) |
Challenges Still Ahead
1. Squadron Shortfall
India needs 42 squadrons for a full-spectrum two-front war readiness, but currently fields only 31–33 — leaving a serious gap in deterrence.
2. Indigenous Delays
While programs like Tejas and AMCA are ambitious, they often face delays. Any slip in deadlines could risk operational readiness during emergencies.
3. Budgetary Pressure
Defense procurement competes with social, infrastructure, and development priorities. Ensuring consistent funding across long timelines remains a major challenge.
Conclusion
The MiG-21’s journey mirrors India’s own evolution from a young republic seeking strategic autonomy to a nation crafting its own fighter jets and defense systems. Its retirement is more than just a goodbye to a machine; it’s a tribute to decades of service, sacrifice, and transformation.
As India moves toward a self-reliant and high-tech air force, the legacy of the MiG-21 will live on in flight manuals, in war memorials, and in the hearts of the pilots who flew it into history.
