The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to retire its iconic MiG-21 fighter jets in September 2025. These Russian-origin aircraft have been a vital part of India’s defence for over six decades. The MiG-21s are now being replaced by the indigenously developed Tejas Mark-1A aircraft. This transition marks the end of an era for one of the longest-serving fighter jets in the world.
Introduction to the MiG-21 Aircraft
The MiG-21 is a single-engine, single-seat multi-role fighter jet. Initially inducted in 1963 as an interceptor, it was later upgraded for ground attack and other combat roles. India procured over 700 MiG-21s in various variants including Type-77, Type-96, BIS, and the upgraded MiG-21 Bison. The Bison variant features advanced radar, avionics, and missile systems.
Operational History and War Contributions
The MiG-21 played important role in several wars fought by India. It was instrumental in the 1965 Indo-Pak war and the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. In 1999, during the Kargil conflict, MiG-21s supported ground operations. Notably, in 2019, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16 while flying a MiG-21 Bison.
Safety Concerns and Accident Record
The MiG-21 has earned the nickname ‘flying coffin’ due to its accident history. Over 500 crashes and 170 pilot fatalities have been recorded in 60 years. Causes include technical faults, pilot error, bird strikes, and spatial disorientation. Recent accidents, including a 2023 crash in Rajasthan that killed three civilians, have raised safety alarms.
Phase-Out and Replacement Plans
Currently, three MiG-21 Bison squadrons remain active, each with 16-18 aircraft. The No 51 squadron was retired in 2022. Complete phase-out is planned by September 2025. The IAF continues to operate MiG-21s to maintain squadron strength until the indigenous Tejas jets fully replace them.
Induction History and Strategic Context
The MiG-21 was inducted amid security concerns after the 1962 war with China and rising tensions with Pakistan. The USA’s reluctance to supply F-104 Starfighters to India led to the Soviet MiG-21 becoming the preferred choice. The first six jets arrived in 1963, assembled by Soviet engineers in India.
MiG-21 in Popular Culture and Public Perception
The aircraft’s safety record and accidents have sparked controversy. The 2001 crash that killed Flight Lieutenant Abhijeet Gadgil led to public debates on aircraft safety. His mother’s fight for justice inspired a key subplot in the 2006 Hindi film ‘Rang De Basanti’. The MiG-21 remains a symbol of both valor and sacrifice in Indian aviation history.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the strategic importance of indigenous defence production in India with reference to the replacement of MiG-21 by Tejas Mark-1A.
- Critically analyse the impact of outdated military equipment on national security and suggest measures to modernise armed forces effectively.
- Estimate the role of air power in India’s wars since independence and how technological advancements have influenced aerial warfare.
- What is spatial disorientation in aviation? How can pilot training and technology mitigate risks associated with it? With suitable examples.
