When MiG-21s roared over the skies one final time

IAF bids farewell to the legendary fighter jets | Sanjay Ahlawat

The legendary MiG-21 fighter jets, the backbone of the Indian Air Force's combat fleet for more than six decades, streaked through Indian skies for the last time on Friday.

| Sanjay Ahlawat

The MiG-21's final adieu threaded through history and many a remembrance.

| Sanjay Ahlawat

Describing the MiG-21 as a mighty machine and a national pride, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said there is deep attachment to the aircraft that shaped our confidence.

| Sanjay Ahlawat

Besides him, former IAF chiefs A Y Tipnis, S P Tyagi and B S Dhanoa, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India's first man on the International Space Station, and scores of veterans, many who had piloted the aircraft, were present on the occasion.

| Sanjay Ahlawat

MiG-21 jets, belonging to number 23 Squadron, took part in the flypast ceremony, and were given a water cannon salute.

| Sanjay Ahlawat

A majestic flypast of the MiG-21 aircraft was accompanied by precision of the air warrior drill team and an aerial salute.