In the year 2025, the era of the 'flying coffin' MiG-21 flights will come to a definitive close, as they make way for the superior LCA Mark 1A aircraft to assume their role, according to statements made by Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary.
Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary disclosed that in the coming month or two, the second squadron of LCA Mark 1A will be activated. Concurrently, the MiG-21 fighter planes are slated for complete retirement by 2025.
Key Highlights:
A complete ban on MiG-21 fighter plane flights is set for 2025.
India's indigenous marvel, the Tejas aircraft, will take the reins from the MiG-21 fleet.
LCA Mark 1A will seamlessly replace MiG-21 squadrons.
Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary, confirmed that MiG-21 fighter flights will be phased out entirely by 2025, marking a pivotal transition to India's homegrown Tejas aircraft.
The Air Force Chief further revealed that a contract for 83 LCA Mark 1A aircraft has already been inked. Additionally, there's contemplation regarding an extension of this contract by adding 97 more aircraft, which would bring the total LCA Mark 1A fleet to an impressive 180 units. The MiG-21 squadrons will bow out gracefully, making way for the LCA Mark 1A by the specified deadline in 2025.
VR Chaudhary also stated that the activation of the second squadron of LCA Mark 1A is imminent within the next couple of months. Furthermore, the third squadron is slated for activation sometime in the upcoming year. The induction of LCA Mark 1A aircraft is set to bridge the void left by the retiring MiG-21s.
Amidst the ongoing border tensions with China, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary emphasized that the Indian Air Force maintains a constant vigil on border situations through Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR). He emphasized that resource and capability development along the borders remains a top priority. Operational strategies are dynamic and adaptable to evolving circumstances, and there are plans in place to address situations where the adversary's strength is unmatched, through enhanced tactics and training.
The long-standing discussion regarding the procurement of 114 multi-role fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force was also addressed by Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary. He acknowledged that the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) deliberations have been prolonged, with major decisions pending. However, he expressed optimism that decisive steps will be taken in the near future to advance this critical matter.
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