THE MIG-21: THE STORY OF LEGACY OF PRIDE AND PAIN

The decommissioning of MiG-21 in Chandigarh on September 26, 2025, brought to a close an illustrious chapter of more than six decades in the history of the Indian Air Force. SHUBHANGI PALVE reports that 60 countries across four continents have flown it, that even after more than 70 years since its first flight, few nations still rely on it, that it is one of the most widely produced combat aircraft in history, that it was the first supersonic fighter in India's fleet, and that India went on to become the second-largest operator of the MiG-21

- By SHUBHANGI PALVE

"A pilot who says he has never been frightened is either lying or he's never flown a MiG-21".

This old saying is popular among Indian Air Force Veterans. It sums up the jet's legacy perfectly, exhilarating to fly but also unforgiving. Looking back at the MiG-21's six decades in Indian service, it's easy to see why the line has stood the test of time.

Very few aircraft in history have had a journey as long, dramatic, and complicated as the MiG-21.

The story of MiG-21 began in the Soviet Union, where it made its first flight on 16 June 1955. The aircraft, named the Ye-4, was a lightweight fighter interceptor prototype designed by Mikoyan and Gurevich Design Bureau. Its public debut came a year later during the Soviet Aviation Day display at Moscow's Tushino airfield in July 1956

The Soviet made MiG-21 was reported by NATO as the 'Fishbed'. Till now, more than 60 countries across four continents have flown the aircraft. Even seven decades after its first flight, many nations still use it. The MiG-21 is one of the most widely produced combat aircraft in the world. Around 11,500 were built across the USSR, China, and India.

India's First Supersonic Fighter

Eight years after its first flight, India received its first batch of 12 MiG-21 fighters. In August 1962, India signed an agreement with the Soviet Union to buy MiG-21. The deal also included rights for licensed co-production.

The MiG-21 was India's first supersonic fighter. It could break the sound barrier and climb to high altitudes at speed. MiG-21 entered into Indian Air Force service in 1963 with No. 28 Squadron, based in Chandigarh. It was the first squadron to operate the aircraft. For this, it earned the title 'The First Supersonics'.

India's choice was strategic. After the 1962 war with China, the country needed a modern fighter quickly. It wanted both a technological edge and a high altitude interceptor. The MiG-21 fits that need.