Defence Minister Rajnath Singh bids farewell to MiG-21
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that MiG-21 fighter jets always enhanced the honour of India’s flag throughout different missions, calling the jets as “family members” of India and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
“In its long history, there have been many such occasions when the MiG-21 proved its decisive capacity. Whenever there have been historic missions, the MiG-21 has enhanced the honour of the tricolour every time,” Singh said while addressing the MiG-21 retirement ceremony in Chandigarh on Friday, September 26.
“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,” he added.
The Defence Minister further stated that the farewell is not only of the combat fighter jets, but also the “collective memories, national pride, and journey” of the stories of “courage, sacrifice, and excellence” that the MiG-21 helped India to write.
“The MiG-21 is deeply embedded in the memories and emotions of our country. Since 1963, when the MiG-21 first joined us, this journey of more than 60 years up to today is unmatched in itself,” Singh said at the ceremony.
“For all of us, this is not just a fighter jet, but rather a family member with whom we have a deep attachment. The MiG-21 has shaped our confidence, strengthened our strategy, and helped us establish ourselves on the global stage. In such a long journey, this fighter jet has faced every challenge and proved its capability every time,” he added.
Defence Minister Singh also called the Soviet-made fighter jets as a “testimony” of India and Russia relationship.