During the ceremony, the MiG-21 jets from No. 23 Squadron performed their last aerial formations, including the three-aircraft “Badal” and four-aircraft “Panther” displays, while the Surya Kiran aerobatic team enthralled the audience with breathtaking maneuvers. The aircraft was also honoured with a water cannon salute. Since their first induction in 1963, the IAF had procured more than 870 MiG-21s, which went on to become one of the longest-serving fighters in the force’s history.

The MiG-21 holds a distinguished combat record, having played a decisive role in the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan, the Kargil conflict, and even in the Balakot airstrikes. For veterans and serving officers alike, the farewell was an emotional moment, with many describing the aircraft as a “family member” retiring after decades of dedicated service. The jets had already carried out their final operational sorties at the Nal Air Force Station in Rajasthan last month, ahead of the formal retirement in Chandigarh.