Overview

• The Indian Air Force confirmed a ceremonial de-induction for the MiG-21 in Chandigarh on September 26, closing out six decades of service.
• The jet made its last operational flights at Nal Air Force Station on August 18–19, where a Bollywood film shoot for Love And War captured the final takeoffs.
• Air Chief Marshal A P Singh flew solo and formation sorties at Nal and visited No. 23 Squadron ‘Panthers’, identified by the IAF as the last unit operating the type.
• IAF leadership described the platform as outdated and highlighted Tejas, Rafale and Su-30 fighters as successors, with 83 Tejas Mark-1A aircraft under contract.
• The Tribune reported fighter strength will dip to about 29 squadrons until new inductions, noting that Tejas Mark-1A deliveries expected from 2024 have not begun.