The Indian Air Force (IAF) marked a poignant chapter in its history as it bid farewell to the iconic MiG-21 fighter jet after 62 years of service during a decommissioning ceremony in Chandigarh. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the MiG-21’s pivotal contributions across various conflicts, including the 1965 and 1971 wars, the Kargil conflict, and the 2019 Balakot airstrike, where it notably downed a Pakistani F-16. The aircraft, which served as a training platform for generations of pilots, embodies the spirit of India’s military aviation and symbolizes the deep ties between India and Russia. The decommissioning ceremony was attended by senior military leaders and featured a ceremonial flypast, emphasizing the aircraft’s legacy as a cornerstone of India’s air power. The event not only mourned the retirement of a storied aircraft but also heralded the transition toward indigenous capabilities, with the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) set to take its place. The MiG-21’s legacy, marked by valour and service, will inspire India’s future defense endeavors, particularly in the pursuit of Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance, in defense technology. The global military aviation history recalls the MiG-21 as a remarkable platform; over 11,500 units were produced worldwide, with the IAF operating approximately 850, a testament to its credibility and effectiveness. The handover of Form 700, the aircraft’s technical log, symbolizes the official retirement, encapsulating the aircraft’s extensive operational history and achievements. This farewell was not just a ceremonial gesture but a reflection of respect towards a machine that has been integral to national pride and defense, as articulated by Singh, who emphasized the need to honor the past while looking forward to future advancements in India’s military capabilities.