Even after its retirement, the MiG-21 remains a symbol of India’s rise as an air power and a legendary chapter in IAF history
The MiG-21 joined the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 1963, becoming India’s first supersonic jet fighter. For over six decades, it shaped the nation’s air combat history, fought in wars, trained countless pilots and earned both glory and respect before retiring in 2025.
It was the IAF’s first supersonic jet, capable of flying at over Mach 2 (2,100 km/h).
In the 1971 India–Pakistan War, MiG-21s scored aerial victories against Pakistan’s American-built F-104 Starfighters.
India produced more than 600 MiG-21s under license at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
India became the largest operator of MiG-21s outside the Soviet Union.
With 62 years of active duty, it holds the record as the longest-serving fighter jet in the IAF.
The modernised MiG-21 Bison got Israeli avionics and radar keeping it combat-ready well into the 21st century.
A MiG-21 Bison shot down a Pakistani F-16 in an aerial battle, proving its continued relevance.
The jet trained generations of IAF pilots, becoming both a “fighter school” and a tough test of skill.
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