Overview

• A formal de-induction ceremony is scheduled at Air Force Station Chandigarh on September 26.
• The IAF paid tribute on social media, calling the jet a "warhorse" and recalling service since its 1963 induction with combat roles from the 1971 Dhaka strike to Kargil.
• Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh said the aircraft’s technology is outdated and difficult to maintain, reinforcing the decision to retire it.
• Final operational sorties occurred on August 18–19 during a film shoot, with the Chief of the Air Staff flying solo missions.
• Tejas Mk1A is positioned as the successor, with contracts for 83 aircraft signed as the force transitions capability to newer fighters.