I Spent Most Of My Life In MiG-21: Shubhanshu Shukla

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• September 26, 2025

Farewell to the MiG-21

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh took farewell of the MiG-21 formally on Friday. The function was held at the Chandigarh Air Force Station. The aircraft has been with the Indian Air Force since decades and has played a key role in many wars.

Shubhanshu Shukla's Experience

Indian astronaut and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla had witnessed the function. He described his personal experience with the MiG-21.

• He said that he spent most of his life piloting this plane.
• He flew the MiG-21 from 2007 to 2017.
• He first flew the MiG-21 Caliber variants and the MiG-21 Bison later on.
• He also flew in several squadrons when he was flying.

Shukla also mentioned that the MiG-21 taught him many things. He had wished to fly it again during the farewell ceremony but time did not allow it. He was glad to meet colleagues who had been with him in the aircraft's journey.

Legacy of the MiG-21

The farewell ceremony was attended by senior IAF brass, retired officers, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and other officials.

Rajnath Singh praised the MiG-21's role in India's defense history. According to him, the aircraft was involved in every major military operation, including:

• The 1971 War
• The Kargil War
• The Balakot air strikes
• Operation Sindoor

He also added that the fighter jet represents strong defence ties between India and Russia.