After nearly six decades of service as India’s aerial shield, the iconic MiG-21 fighter jet is set to retire on Friday in Chandigarh. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has planned a grand farewell, with full-dress rehearsals conducted on September 24. During the practice, MiG-21s flew in formation alongside Jaguars and the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team, while Akash Ganga skydivers wowed spectators by leaping from nearly 4,000 feet.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh will personally take the cockpit of the MiG-21 to mark its emotional farewell, having flown the aircraft last month from Rajasthan’s Nal Air Base. The historic final sortie will be led by Squadron Leader Priya Sharma, featuring special recreations of the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars to highlight the MiG-21’s legendary combat legacy. The IAF’s 23rd Squadron, known as the “Panthers,” will soar in a victory formation, followed by a “Cloud” formation alongside India’s indigenous Tejas aircraft, symbolizing the transition from MiG-21 to modern fighter jets.
The farewell will culminate with six MiG-21s landing together in front of the main stage before being powered down for the last time. In keeping with IAF tradition, the aircraft will receive a water cannon salute. With this ceremony, both operational squadrons of the MiG-21—the Cobras and the Panthers—will be decommissioned. The event will be attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, chiefs of all three services, six former IAF chiefs, and commanders-in-chief from all IAF commands.
