Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary MiG-21 fighter jet, describing it as more than just an aircraft. Calling it a living testament to India’s enduring defence ties with Russia, Singh recalled the fighter’s historic role in shaping India’s military legacy.
“Who can forget the 1971 war?” Singh asked, as he revisited the jet’s defining moments. “During the war with Pakistan, despite adverse circumstances, the MiG-21 struck the Governor’s House in Dhaka. That very attack outlined the outcome of the conflict. Throughout its long history, the MiG-21 has repeatedly proven its decisive strength.”
#WATCH | Chandigarh: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, “Who can forget the 1971 war. During the war with Pakistan, in adverse circumstances, the MiG-21 attacked the Governor’s House in Dhaka, and on that very day, it outlined the result of that war. Besides this, in its long… pic.twitter.com/oh7mwdB4VF
— ANI (@ANI) September 26, 2025
Highlighting its unmatched service record, Singh said the jet had stood tall in every crucial mission, enhancing the honour of the tricolour with each victory. “Whenever history was written on the battlefield, the MiG-21 was there—embodying courage, sacrifice, and excellence,” he noted.
The farewell to the MiG-21 was not just the retirement of a fighter jet but also the closing of a chapter filled with victories and pride. “This aircraft is an inseparable part of our journey, of the bravery and dedication of our armed forces,” he said.


