The phasing out of the delta-wing MiG-21, which lacks modern systems with built-in protection mechanisms, has repeatedly led to the dwindling number of fighter squadrons of the IAF and huge delays in induction of new fighters, especially indigenous ones. The bar has been postponed. Tejasie Light Combat Aircraft.
The highly unforgiving and outdated MiG-21s, with poor maintenance, poor quality control of parts and inadequate training, constitute a deadly mix. Wing Commander M Rana (38) and Flight Lieutenant on Thursday evening aditya bali (26) He died when his twin seat MiG-21 Type 69 trainer crashed during night flight in Barmer district of Rajasthan. There have been at least six MiG-21 crashes since January last year, killing five pilots.
Of the 872 MiG-21s inducted sequentially since 1960, over 400 have been lost in accidents since 1971-72, killing over 200 pilots and 50 civilians on the ground, as first reported by TOI. it was done.
Even before the crash on Thursday, the IAF had drawn up a phased-out plan for around 70 MiG-21 ‘Bison’ and trainers that are still in its fighter fleet. Srinagar-based ’51 Sword Arms’ squadron will be the first squadron to be “number-plated” in September this year, an Indian Air Force official said on Friday.
Another three MiG-21 squadrons at Uttarlai, Suratgarh And the taps in Rajasthan will be retired later in the next three years. Incidentally, 51 Squadron played a major role in thwarting pakistan air forceIndian Air Force retaliation a day after air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed hideout Balakoti on 26 February 2019.
group captain Abhinandan CurrentHe was the Wing Commander at the time, who was awarded the Vir Chakra for shooting down an F-16, while his MiG-21 also went down during an aerial skirmish that day.
“The MiG-21s of the Soviet era played a prolific role in air operations as a high-altitude supersonic interceptor, especially during the 1965 and 1971 wars. But he is well ahead of his retirement date. However, what can the Indian Air Force do without his replacement? a senior official said.
The Indian Air Force is currently battling with only 32-33 fighter squadrons (with 16-18 jets each) when at least 42 are needed to counter threats from China and Pakistan.
The 36 new omni-role Rafale fighter jets inducted under the Rs 59,000-crore deal with France are several times more capable than the MiG-21. But the sheer numbers matter too, and this is where Tejas will have to step in with a much higher production rate. Out of 123 Tejas jets, less than 30 were ordered Hindustan AeronauticsSo far, a total cost of Rs 55,700 crore has been delivered.
watch The remaining four MiG-21 squadrons will be retired by 2025.