Rajnath Singh Bids Farewell to MiG-21, Calls It a Symbol of India-Russia Friendship and Military Glory

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday paid an emotional tribute to the MiG-21 fighter jet during a farewell ceremony held in Chandigarh, calling it not just an aircraft but a powerful symbol of India’s deep-rooted defence ties with Russia and a key part of the nation’s military legacy.

“MiG-21 is not only an aircraft or machine but also proof of deep India-Russia ties,” Singh said, highlighting the jet's enduring legacy amid ongoing global pressure—particularly from the United States—for India to distance itself from Russia. Despite such geopolitical tensions, India has consistently maintained strong diplomatic and trade relations with Moscow.

The MiG-21, inducted into the Indian Air Force in the early 1960s, was India’s first supersonic fighter jet and served the nation for over six decades. Its retirement marks the end of an era in Indian aviation history.

Recalling its role in major military operations, Singh emphasized the MiG-21’s decisive impact during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. “Who can forget the 1971 war? In adverse circumstances, the MiG-21 attacked the Governor’s House in Dhaka. That very day, the result of the war was outlined,” he said.

He further noted that the MiG-21 had consistently enhanced the honour of the Indian flag across numerous historic missions. “Whenever there have been historic missions, every time the MiG-21 has enhanced the honour of the tricolour,” Singh said, calling the farewell “a tribute to our collective memories, national pride, and a journey of courage, sacrifice, and excellence.”

Over the decades, the MiG-21 played pivotal roles in several major conflicts, including the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan, the 1999 Kargil conflict, and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes.

The first MiG-21 squadron was led by Dilbagh Singh, who later became the Chief of Air Staff in 1981. Known for its speed and versatility, the aircraft served as both a frontline fighter and interceptor in the IAF.

The farewell ceremony was attended by top military leadership, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi.