india’s first supersonic fighter, Mig-21 officially retired on Friday after 62 years of unmatched service, marking the end of an era in Indian military aviation and celebrating its legacy of valour and Indo-Russian partnership. The decommissioning ceremony, held at the Candigarh Air Force Station, brought together air warriors, defence officials and dignitaries to pay tribute to the legendary aircraft that has been the backbone of India’s combat fleet since the 1960s. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing the gathering, described the MiG 21 as far more than just a machine. “MiG-21 is not only an aircraft or a machine but it is also a proof of deep ties between India and Russia,” he said.He recalled the aircraft’s contributions across decades, highlighting its role in major conflicts such as the 1971 war with Pakistan, the 1999 Kargil conflict, the 2019 Balakot air strikes and Operation Sindoor. He emphasised that the jet has been a silent witness to numerous heroic acts by the Indian armed forces, each sortie re inforcing the nation’s confidence and honour. The MiG-21’s history is closely tied to India’s strategic partnership with Russia. The minister noted that the aircraft not only strengthened the IAF’s combat capability but also served as a symbol of enduring bilateral relations.Over 11,500 MiG-21s were produced worldwide, with 850 serving in the Indian Air Force alone, demonstrating the jet’s global popu larity, reliability and versatility. Its remarkable production numbers and widespread adoption are a testament to the aircraft’s multi-dimensional capabilities and enduring relevance over decades. Inducted into the IAF in the early 1960s, the MiG-21 catapulted India into the jet age, be coming the nation’s first supersonic fighter and interceptor. Over its 62-year operational journey, it not only enhanced India’s aerial combat prow ess but also created a lasting legacy of bravery, sacrifice and technical excellence.The farewell ceremony witnessed the last operational sortie of the MiG-21, with Air Chief Marshal AP Singh flying the final flight of the Number 23 Squadron “Panthers,” under the call sign Badal 3. This poi gnant moment marked not just the retirement of a fighter jet, but a farewell to decades of shared memories, national pride and the stories of cour age that defined generations of air warriors.The decommissioning of the MiG-21 is more than the retirement of an aircraft. It is the closing of a remarkable chapter in Indian military history. For over 60 years, this legendary fighter jet has embodied valour, technical brilliance and the deep bonds between India and Russia. As the IAF moves forward with modern aircraft, the MiG-21 will remain a symbol of national pride and a shining example of courage and excellence in military aviation. SPIRITUAL WORL