Unlike modern aircraft with their sophisticated systems and computer-mediated controls, the MiG-21 was pure aviation. The connection between the pilot and the machine was magical.
In post on social media, Cooper narrated experience of MiG-21 researcher from Germany who wanted to attend aircraft’s farewell ceremony in India, and the roadblocks he faced.
While the IAF remains committed to the Tejas programme and has placed orders for 180 Tejas Mk1A, the force is eagerly waiting for the Tejas Mk 2 version.
MiG-21 was a demanding mentor that helped build factories from dust, transformed farm boys into fighter pilots, and dragged an entire nation into the brutal reality of modern warfare.
IAF equipped 28 fighter squadrons & 4 training units with MiG-21. 16 have been numberplated. Between 2015 & 2022, IAF phased out a squadron each year in March, with exception of 2021.
Islamabad-based think-tank PICSS's new report says Pakistan saw 'pronounced escalation' in violence last year, with 3,413 conflict-related deaths compared to 1,950 in previous year.
Many of you might think I got something so wrong in National Interest pieces written this year. I might disagree! But some deserve a Mea Culpa. I’d deal with the most recent this week.
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