The Retirement of MiG-21 Jets
The MiG-21, introduced in the early 1960s, was once hailed as a formidable interceptor and played key roles in multiple conflicts including the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan and the 1999 Kargil conflict. However, over years of service, it became known as a "flying coffin" due to frequent accidents, with over 500 crashes resulting in significant pilot fatalities. The last fleet of MiG-21s was retired in September 2025 during a grand ceremony in Chandigarh, marking the end of an era for the IAF.
The Rise of Tejas Jets
The Tejas Mk-1A jets, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in collaboration with India's Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), have now taken center stage in India's air arsenal. These single-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft are equipped with advanced avionics, indigenous radar, electronic warfare systems, and modern weaponry. Over 64% of the Tejas jets' components are indigenous, aligning with the government's "Make in India" initiative.
The IAF is accelerating the production of Tejas Mk-1A, with 38 jets already in service and about 80 more under manufacture. In September 2025, the Indian government approved a massive contract worth approximately Rs 62,370 crore (around $7 billion) for the procurement of 97 more Tejas jets, including 68 single-seaters and 29 twin-seaters. Deliveries for this order will commence from 2027-28 onward, ensuring that HAL’s order book stays full for several years.
Strategic Implications and Modernization
The retirement of the MiG-21 reduces the IAF's fighter squadrons to 29, short of the sanctioned 42 squadrons. This gap underscores the urgency of rapid induction of the Tejas jets and potential procurement of other fighter aircraft to maintain air superiority, especially given modern threats posed by neighboring adversaries like China and Pakistan.
The advanced capabilities of the Tejas jets, combined with Indigenous Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAAM) like Astra and upgraded electronic warfare systems, position the IAF to better face contemporary aerial combat challenges. The jets are also planned to be stationed strategically at airbases such as Nal Airbase in Rajasthan, near the Pakistan border.
A Proud Moment for India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally piloted a Tejas fighter jet in 2022, marking a symbolic endorsement of India's defense manufacturing prowess. The transition to Tejas also represents a shift from Soviet-era legacy platforms to modern, homegrown technology, reflecting India's growing self-reliance in defense.
Additional Information on Tejas Fighter Aircraft
The Tejas Mk-1A is designed for air defense, maritime reconnaissance, and precision strike roles.
It sports upgraded avionics, radar systems (EL/M-2052), indigenous electronic warfare suites, and can integrate Indian weaponry.
The jet uses the General Electric F404-GE-IN20 engine, with HAL recently receiving multiple engine deliveries to ramp up production.
The program encountered delays primarily due to engine supply bottlenecks, now largely resolved.
Future plans include a fleet of at least 324 Tejas jets to fulfill operational requirements and replace aging aircraft.
The replacement of MiG-21s with Tejas jets marks a new chapter for the Indian Air Force—enhancing both its combat readiness and technological independence.