The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday retired its legendary MiG-21 fighter jet, bringing to an end more than six decades of service. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the aircraft, describing it as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and national pride.

The final sortie of the MiG-21 was led by Air Chief Marshal A P Singh at the Chandigarh Air Force Station. The aircraft flew in the Badal formation of three, while BAe Hawk Mk132 aircraft of the IAF’s Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team performed manoeuvres as part of the ceremony.

The aircraft was given a ceremonial water cannon salute, and in a symbolic gesture, the Air Chief handed over the aircraft’s Form 700 logbook to the Defence Minister, marking the end of an era.

Addressing the gathering, Singh recalled the MiG-21’s role in multiple wars

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