The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to bid farewell to the iconic MiG-21 fighter jet, which has been a pivotal part of its fleet for over six decades, during a ceremonial decommissioning event on September 26 at the Chandigarh Air Force base. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh will conduct the final flypast in a MiG-21, symbolizing the end of an era for an aircraft that has significantly shaped India’s aerial combat capabilities since its induction in 1963. The MiG-21, known as “Badal,” has a storied combat record, having participated in numerous conflicts, including the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars and the 1999 Kargil conflict, gaining a reputation for both its operational versatility and the controversies surrounding its safety record, which led it to be dubbed the “Flying Coffin” due to its accident rate. Despite these challenges, the MiG-21’s contributions to India’s defense, particularly as the first supersonic fighter jet, cannot be understated; it played a crucial role in establishing air superiority and enhancing the IAF’s prowess. As the IAF transitions to more advanced and indigenous platforms like the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, the retirement of the MiG-21 not only marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in Indian military aviation history but also reflects the evolution of India’s defense strategies and its commitment to modernization. The event will be attended by high-ranking officials, including the Defence Minister and several former Air Force chiefs, underscoring the emotional weight of this momentous occasion for veterans and aviation enthusiasts alike.