CURRENT CONTEXT: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will retire all MiG-21 fighter jets by September 2025, marking the end of over 62 years of service. The final ceremonial flight will take place on 19 September 2025 at Chandigarh, flown by No. 23 Squadron “Panthers”.

 ABOUT MIG-21 FIGHTER JETS:

• First Inducted:
• Over 600 units built under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
• Nickname: “Flying Coffin” due to frequent accidents.
• Combat Role: India’s first supersonic jet fighter; served in wars of 1965, 1971, 1999 (Kargil), and Balakot 2019.

 SIGNIFICANCE OF RETIREMENT:

• Strategic Shift: Being replaced by Tejas LCA Mk 1A, part of India’s indigenous defence drive.
• Squadron Challenge: IAF now has only 31 operational squadrons, below the required 42 squadrons.
• Future Outlook: Opens opportunities for private players and expansion in UAVs and next-gen aircraft.