New Delhi : This is the last roar of the mighty MiG-21, the stunning fighter aircraft with a glorious record. The jet fades into history in a formal ceremony held in Chandigarh on September 26, where the MiG-21 was first inducted in 1963. This marks the end of an era for the Indian Air Force, an emotional moment for the force and for generations of pilots.

MiG-21: In India since 1963

India got its first MiG-21s in 1963, just four years after the Soviet Union began using them in 1959. The first Indian squadron to use it was No. 28 Squadron, known as the “First Supersonics,” and they flew the MiG-21 F-13 (Type-74). This was followed by the Type-75 version.

Why India procured MiG-21s?

“In 1961, Pakistanis got the F-104 Starfighter; they were already getting Sabres and other aircraft from

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