New Delhi, Sept. 27 -- The Indian Air Force (IAF) formally decommissioned its legendary MiG-21 fighter aircraft after more than six decades of service, marking the end of an era in Indian military aviation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over the ceremony at the Chandigarh Air Force Station, describing the aircraft as a "symbol of courage, discipline, and patriotism" that inspired generations of air warriors.

First inducted in 1963, the MiG-21 played a decisive role in the 1971 war, the Kargil conflict, the Balakot airstrike, and Operation Sindoor. Over 11,500 units were produced worldwide, of which about 850 served in the IAF. Singh hailed the MiG-21 as a "bird of all seasons," excelling as an interceptor, ground-attack platfor...