MiG Is a Testimony of India-Russia Ties: Rajnath Singh At Its Farewell Event

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday recalled the role played by MiG-21 during the Indian wars and said that it was like a family member.

While bidding farewell to the Russian-origin fighter jet, Singh hailed its contributions as he said that MiG-21 was a symbol of the strong relationship between India and Russia.

India's legendary combat jet, the MiG-21, was officially decommissioned by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday at a grand ceremony at the Chandigarh Air Force Station, concluding its remarkable 63 years of service that began with its induction in 1963.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the tributes, recalling the jet's crucial contributions to numerous conflicts and hailing it as a "tremendous strength" for India's armed forces throughout its history.

"Its contribution has not been limited to a single event or a single war. From the war of 1971 to the Kargil conflict, or from the Balakot airstrike to Operation Sindoor, there has not been a moment when the MiG-21 has not provided tremendous strength to our armed forces," Singh stated.

He specifically remembered the MiG-21's important role during the 1971 war, citing its decisive attack on the Governor's House in Dhaka, which he said outlined the result of the war on that very day.

Calling its retirement a farewell to a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and national pride, the Minister said, "This farewell is also of our collective memories, of our national pride, and of that journey in which the story of courage, sacrifice, and excellence has been written."

More Than a Jet, a Family Member

The Defence Minister expressed a deep emotional attachment to the aircraft, saying the MiG-21 is more than just a fighter jet for India; it is like a family member deeply embedded in the nation's memories.

"The MiG-21 has shaped our confidence, strengthened our strategy, and helped us establish ourselves on the global stage," he said, adding that it faced every challenge and proved its strength throughout its long journey.

Singh also termed the aircraft a "testimony of India-Russia relations."