Indian Air Force Retires Iconic MiG-21 Fighter Jets
The Indian Air Force (IAF) retired its last MiG-21 fighter jets in September 2025. The No 23 (Panthers) and No 3 (Cobras) squadrons, operating 36 jets, were decommissioned in Chandigarh. This marks the end of a six-decade era for the Soviet-era aircraft. The retirement marks challenges faced by the IAF in maintaining adequate fighter squadron strength amid delays in new aircraft induction.
Historical Significance of MiG-21 in IAF
Introduced in 1963, the MiG-21 served as the IAF’s premier interceptor. It played a key role in the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan and the 1999 Kargil conflict. Over 700 jets of various variants were procured from the Soviet Union. The MiG-21 Bison, the latest upgrade, included modern avionics and weapon systems. Despite upgrades, engine reliability remained a concern, causing numerous accidents. More than 500 crashes and 170 pilot fatalities occurred over 60 years. However, many pilots believe the safety record is reasonable given the aircraft’s extensive use.
Current Fighter Squadron Strength and Strategic Concerns
With MiG-21s retired, the IAF’s fighter squadron strength stands at 29, below the sanctioned 42 squadrons. This is insufficient for a potential two-front war against Pakistan and China. Pakistan fields 20-25 squadrons, while China has over 60. Older jets like MiG-29, Jaguar, and Mirage 2000 will also phase out by 2035. This decline poses a strategic challenge for India’s air defence readiness.
Modernisation and Air Defence Systems
India is focusing on strengthening air defence through surface-to-air missile systems. The Russian S-400 missile system was inducted despite US opposition. Indigenous systems like Akashteer have also been developed and tested successfully during military operations. These systems provide critical interim air defence capabilities as fighter strength rebuilds.
Indigenous Fighter Aircraft and Future Plans
The IAF currently operates two squadrons of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1. An order for 180 Tejas Mk1A jets with advanced radars and missile systems was signed recently. Tejas Mk2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation stealth fighter, are under development for future induction. AMCA is expected within the next decade.
Foreign Fighter Acquisition and Upgrades
The IAF is negotiating to buy 114 fighter jets from global manufacturers. Dassault Rafale is the leading contender. Some jets may be delivered ready-to-fly, while others will be produced in India through joint ventures. Additionally, 84 Su-30MKI jets will undergo upgrades under the Super-30 programme to extend their service life.
Challenges of Delays and Production Bottlenecks
The IAF has faced chronic delays in aircraft development and procurement. The MiG-21 remained in service far beyond planned retirement due to lack of replacements. The LCA Tejas programme began in the 1980s but deliveries have been slow. Engine supply delays from GE Aerospace have pushed back timelines. HAL aims to produce 16 Tejas jets annually but full deliveries may extend to the mid-2030s. Negotiations for co-producing F414 engines continue slowly. The AMCA prototype is still years away, and the foreign fighter deal remains unsigned.
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