The Indian Air Force (IAF) recently conducted final sorties of the iconic MiG-21 fighter jet ahead of its retirement on September 26, 2025, marking the end of a 62-year legacy. Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, flew the historic MiG-21 Bison CU2777, which was the first of its kind to be upgraded, reflecting on its significant contributions to India’s aerial defense during major conflicts like the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars and the Kargil conflict. The farewell event at Nal Airbase also coincided with the filming of Bollywood’s “Love and War,” creatively intertwining aviation history with contemporary culture. Despite the MiG-21’s legacy as a workhorse of the IAF, Air Chief Marshal Singh emphasized the need for modernization, stating that the aircraft’s technology is outdated and difficult to maintain. The transition towards newer platforms such as the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and the French Rafale underscores the IAF’s commitment to advancing its capabilities. While the MiG-21 will be missed by those who flew it, the focus on modernizing India’s air power is a positive step forward, ensuring the IAF remains adept and prepared for future challenges. The ceremonial farewell planned in Chandigarh will encapsulate the MiG-21’s storied past, while also heralding a new era of aviation in India, blending historical reverence with a forward-looking perspective on air defense.