Paper: GS – III, Subject: Science and Technology, Topic: Defence Technology, Issue: MiG-21 Fighter Jets to Retire.
Context:
The Indian Air Force will retire its MiG-21 Bison fighter jets in September 2025, marking the end of their six-decade service.
- These jets will be replaced by the indigenously developed Tejas Mk1A aircraft, reflecting India’s push for modernisation and self-reliance in defence capabilities while enhancing operational strength and indigenous innovation.
Key Takeaways:
MiG-21 Fighter Jets: India’s First Supersonic Fighter:
- MiG-21 is a single-engine supersonic jet fighter and interceptor aircraft.
- Developed by: Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau in the former Soviet Union.
- Induction: First procured in 1963 into the Indian Air Force (IAF).
- They formed the backbone of the Air Force till the mid-2000s, when the Su-30MKIs were inducted.
- Initially developed as an interceptor, the supersonic jet was eventually upgraded to perform as a multi-role combat aircraft, including ground attacks.
- With a maximum speed of 2230 kilometres per hour, the jet carries one 23mm twin-barrel cannon with four R-60 close combat missiles.
- Key Role: They have played key roles in the wars with Pakistan (1965 and 1971), Kargil War (1999), Balakot air strikes (2019), and the most-recent Operation Sindoor (2025).
MiG-21 Fighter Jets to Retire:
- The Air Force currently has two MiG-21 squadrons, or 36 aircrafts, that are operated by the squadrons stationed at the Nal airbase in Rajasthan.
- Indian Air Force (IAF) has 31 fighter squadrons as against the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons.
- It is significantly below the optimal readiness requirements.
- The phase out of two MIG-21 squadrons has been long extended due to the delayed deliveries of LCA-Mk1A (Tejas fighter aircraft).
- After the phased out, the combat strength of the Air Force will drop to 29 squadrons.
Indian Air Force: Current and Future Fighter Plans:
The MiG-21’s retirement marks a turning point for the IAF, highlighting the need for rapid modernization to address regional threats and restore squadron strength. Progress with Tejas, Rafales, and future fifth-generation jets is key, but timely deliveries and overcoming delays will be crucial for maintaining operational readiness.
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