Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla attended the MiG-21’s final farewell at Chandigarh Air Force base. He called the ceremony befitting and dignified. Moreover, Shukla shared fond memories of the jet. He flew it early in his Air Force career. Before becoming an astronaut, he spent considerable time with the MiG-21.
Shukla felt fantastic during the event. He said, “I cherish many fond memories of it.” He grew up with the aircraft. Today, he reconnected with old comrades. The ceremony honored the jet’s legacy. Shukla added, “It holds a major memory in my heart.”
The MiG-21 joined the Indian Air Force in 1963. Now, it ends 63 years of service. Air Chief Marshal A P Singh led the last sortie. Three jets flew in Badal formation, an inverted ‘V’. The Surya Kiran team performed maneuvers with BAe Hawk aircraft. A water cannon salute followed.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the jet. He highlighted its role in key conflicts. For example, it fought in the 1971 war. Pilots attacked Dhaka’s Governor’s House. It also aided Kargil, Balakot airstrike, and Operation Sindoor. Singh declared, “MiG-21 provided tremendous strength to our forces.”
Furthermore, Singh viewed the MiG-21 as more than an aircraft. It symbolizes India-Russia ties. He said, “It testifies to our strong relations.” The minister called the retirement a farewell to courage and pride. In a gesture, the Air Chief handed the Form 700 logbook to Singh. This marked the end of an era.
Shukla witnessed the historic moment. The event celebrated heroic deeds and national honor.
