Every year on October 8, the nation proudly observes Indian Air Force Day to honour the establishment of one of the world's most respected air forces — the Indian Air Force (IAF). This is a day dedicated not only to celebrating technological achievements and operational successes but also to remembering the brave men and women who wear the blue uniform and fly into the unknown to protect our skies.

As the IAF continues to modernize with cutting-edge aircraft like the Rafale and Tejas, this year also holds a sense of nostalgia — for we are bidding farewell to an icon that once ruled the skies: the MiG-21.

The MiG-21: India’s Supersonic Leap

Introduced into the IAF in 1963, the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 was India's first supersonic jet fighter. Born in the Soviet Union and built under license in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the MiG-21 earned the nickname "The Flying Coffin" — a title both feared and revered.

For decades, it formed the backbone of India’s air combat fleet, serving through multiple wars and conflicts. Its blistering speed and agility made it a formidable opponent, especially during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, when MiG-21s played a decisive role in establishing Indian air superiority.

As we celebrate the 93rd anniversary of the Indian Air Force this year, we do so with immense pride and a tinge of sorrow. The MiG-21 may no longer be part of our future, but it will forever remain a part of our history — a symbol of courage, resilience, and evolution.

On this Air Force Day, let us salute not just the men and women who serve, but also the machines that have stood by them — especially the MiG-21, which soared through decades of India's skies, defending its borders with unmatched grit.