Winning the 1971 war against Pakistan to Operation Sindoor, a quick look back (All images via IAF X)
Acquired in March 1963, the MiG-21, a legendary fighter & the first supersonic aircraft in the IAF inventory, has completed 60 years last year.
Hero of the 1971 War and upgraded over the years to undertake multiple combat roles, the aircraft continued to serve the nation untill it was decided to decommission it in 2025.
MiG-21FLs were instrumental in gaining air superiority over East Pakistan during the 1971 war.
On December 14, 1971, MiG-21s conducted a pinpoint strike on the Governor's House in Dhaka.
The MiG-21 was deployed operationally even during Operation Sindoor.
The MiG-21 has undergone several upgrades to extend its operational life, most notably the MiG-21 Bison variant.
These upgrades were crucial in keeping the aircraft relevant and capable of participating in modern warfare.
The aircraft has been consistently used for air patrols and defending India's airspace, particularly along the western and eastern borders, throughout its long service history.
Needless to say, the MiG-21s were used to train generations of pilots for over six decades. Its demanding nature has been credited with producing some of India's best fighter pilots.