The MiG-21 fighter jet, a Soviet-era icon that defined the Indian Air Force (IAF) for over six decades, has finally been retired as of September 26, 2025. This momentous event, marked by a ceremonial farewell at the Chandigarh Air Force Station, signals a pivotal shift in India’s aerial defence strategy. For the pilots who have flown this supersonic workhorse often dubbed the “Flying Coffin” due to its accident-prone history but revered for its combat prowess the future lies in a new generation of aircraft.
These transitions not only represent technological upgrades but also embody India’s push toward self-reliance in defence under initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat. This comprehensive overview explores the MiG-21’s legacy, the challenges of its phase-out, the training processes for pilots, and the jets poised to take its place, drawing from recent developments and expert insights.
Historical Context: The MiG-21’s Enduring Role in the IAF
Inducted in 1963 as India’s first supersonic fighter, the MiG-21 quickly became the backbone of the IAF’s fleet. Over 870 units were procured, with variants like the MiG-21FL, Type 77, and upgraded Bison serving in diverse roles from air interception to ground attack. It played starring roles in major conflicts: downing Pakistani F-104 Starfighters in the 1965 war, cratering airfields in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, supporting ground forces in Kargil’s Operation Safed Sagar in 1999, and achieving a notable F-16 kill by Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman in 2019 during the Balakot airstrikes.
Beyond combat, the MiG-21 served as an impromptu advanced jet trainer (AJT) for decades due to delays in procuring dedicated trainers. This role trained nearly 2,000 pilots, logging over 1.5 million flying hours, but contributed to its safety issues over 482 accidents from the 1970s to 2012, resulting in 171 pilot deaths. Factors like high take-off/landing speeds, poor cockpit visibility, and temperamental engines exacerbated risks, especially for novice pilots transitioning directly from basic trainers. The introduction of BAE Hawk AJTs in 2008 finally relieved it of this burden, but the jet’s legacy as a “mentor” for generations of pilots remains unchallenged.
The retirement reduces the IAF’s squadron strength to 29 the lowest since the 1960s against a sanctioned 42, highlighting urgency in fleet replenishment amid tensions with China and Pakistan. While some airframes may be preserved in museums or vintage squadrons, the focus now shifts to the pilots’ next chapter.
The Transition Process: From MiG-21 to Modern Cockpits
MiG-21 pilots, many with thousands of hours on the analog-heavy jet, face a significant but structured shift to digital, fly-by-wire systems. The IAF’s conversion process typically begins at Operational Conversion Units (OCUs), where pilots undergo ground school, simulator training, and live flights in dual-seat variants. This “seamless technology transition” bridges the MiG-21’s third-generation design to Gen 4/4++ platforms, emphasizing adaptability in avionics, radar, and beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles.
For instance, bases like Sulur (home to No. 45 Squadron, the first to swap MiG-21s for Tejas in 2016) and Naliya (preparing for Tejas Mk1A) facilitate this. Training includes familiarization with glass cockpits, helmet-mounted displays, and integrated electronic warfare suites features absent in the MiG-21. The Tejas twin-seater variant doubles as an AJT, preparing pilots for frontline jets like Rafale and Su-30MKI, offering cost-effective, indigenous solutions. Challenges include adapting to higher endurance and payload, but the IAF’s experience with MiG-21 upgrades (e.g., Bison’s modern avionics) eases this. Overall, the process prioritizes safety, with the MiG-21’s retirement expected to reduce accident rates significantly.
The Jets They’ll Fly: Tejas and Beyond
The primary successor is the HAL Tejas LCA, originally designed to replace the MiG-21’s compact, agile profile while incorporating fourth-generation tech. Over 40 Tejas Mk1 are operational in two squadrons, with 83 Mk1A ordered in 2021 and another 97 in 2025, totaling 180 units powered by GE F404 engines. The Mk1A features AESA radars, enhanced jammers, and indigenous munitions like Astra BVR missiles, suited for defensive roles within Indian airspace. Squadrons like No. 3 and No. 23 will receive Mk1A, directly replacing MiG-21s.
For multirole missions, pilots may transition to the 36 Dassault Rafales inducted since 2016, with plans for 114 more under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program. Rafale’s twin-engine design offers superior range and firepower, ideal for offensive operations. Additionally, upgraded Su-30MKIs (272 in service) provide heavy multirole capabilities, with potential for pilots from MiG-21 backgrounds to cross-train.
Looking ahead, the Tejas Mk2 prototype expected by 2025, first flight in 2027 will replace Mirage 2000s, MiG-29s, and Jaguars, with greater endurance and stealth. The fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) aims for induction by 2032, complementing the fleet. Delays in engine tech transfer (e.g., GE F414 for Mk2) and production highlight challenges, but indigenous growth 27% in defence production supports this shift.
| Aircraft | Role | Key Features | Timeline for Pilots | Number Planned/Operational |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tejas Mk1/Mk1A | Light multirole fighter, air defence | Fly-by-wire, AESA radar, indigenous weapons, 400-500 km radius | Immediate transition for MiG-21 squadrons; training at Sulur/Naliya | 40 operational; 180 on order, deliveries from 2026 |
| Rafale | Medium multirole fighter | Twin-engine, advanced sensors, long-range missiles | Selective cross-training for experienced pilots | 36 operational; potential 114 more by 2030 |
| Su-30MKI | Heavy multirole fighter | Upgraded avionics, thrust vectoring | Possible for pilots seeking heavy platforms | 272 operational, upgrades ongoing |
| Tejas Mk2 | Medium weight fighter | Enhanced payload, stealth elements, F414 engine | Mid-term (2027+ first flight) | Prototypes by 2025; production post-2030 |
| AMCA | Fifth-generation stealth fighter | Twin-engine, advanced stealth, AI integration | Long-term (2032+ induction) | Development stage; first flight ~2028 |
This table illustrates the phased approach, with Tejas leading immediate replacements.
Implications for the IAF and India’s Defence Future
The MiG-21’s exit underscores broader modernization needs, with the IAF aiming for 35-36 squadrons by 2035 and full indigenization by 2042. Pilots’ transitions enhance operational readiness, reducing reliance on aging Soviet tech while boosting morale through safer aircraft. However, delays in Tejas deliveries (due to engine issues) and MRFA negotiations pose risks. Partnerships with HAL, Tata, and foreign firms like Dassault signal progress, but balancing cost (e.g., Rafale’s high price) with indigenous options like Tejas Mk2 remains debated.
In conclusion, as MiG-21 pilots ascend to new heights in Tejas, Rafale, and beyond, this evolution not only honors a legendary jet but propels the IAF toward a more capable, self-reliant future.
