IAF's Last MiG-21 Fighters To Retire In September Despite Delay In Tejas Mk1A Deliveries

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will officially retire its final MiG-21 Bison jets on 19 September, but the process comes amid continued delays in the delivery of Tejas fighters, which were intended to replace the aging fleet.

The primary reason for the delay is the late supply of GE F404-IN20 engines from General Electric meant to power Tejas Mk1A fighters. Engine deliveries were initially expected to begin in March 2024, but production issues led to a one-year lag. HAL received the first engine only in March 2025, followed by a second in July. General Electric is now expected to ramp up supply to two engines per month until March 2026.

Although HAL has completed at least six Tejas Mk1A airframes, they remain grounded due to the lack of engines. HAL Chairman D K Sunil confirmed that the company is prepared to deliver six aircraft by March 2026 if engine supplies stay on schedule. However, the integration of weapons might take longer.

The delay has forced the Air Force to retain its MiG-21 Bison jets longer than planned to avoid further weakening squadron strength. The IAF currently operates 29 fighter squadrons, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42.

The retirement ceremony will take place at Chandigarh on September 19. The phase-out of the MiG-21s will reduce the IAF’s legacy fleet but adds pressure to accelerate the Tejas Mk1A induction and stabilise India’s combat readiness.