The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to retire its remaining fleet of MiG-21 fighter jets by September 2025, marking the end of an era for the Soviet-origin aircraft that has served India since the 1960s. Known for their speed and agility, MiG-21s once formed the backbone of the IAF but have been plagued by a high number of accidents in recent decades, earning the grim nickname “flying coffins.”

According to defence sources, the phase-out is being strategically timed to make way for the Tejas Mk1A - India’s indigenously developed, next-generation fighter aircraft. The Tejas Mk1A promises enhanced avionics, better radar systems, and superior flight performance, aligning with India’s goal of building self-reliant defence capabilities.

The move reflects a broader effort by the Indian military to modernize its air fleet with homegrown technology while reducing dependency on legacy systems. The retirement of the MiG-21s also represents a significant moment in India's aviation history, as it transitions into a new chapter with the Tejas.