The MiG 27 fighter of the Indian Air Force, which played a stellar role during the Kargil conflict with Pakistan 20 years ago, roared through the skies for the last time on Friday. The MiG 27 has been the backbone of the Indian Air Force's ground attack fleet for the past four decades. The fighter jet took to the skies one last time at the Jodhpur airbase where the only IAF squadron that operates the MiG 27 is based.
The MiG 27 currently in operation is an ungraded version inducted in 2006. It has been operating as part of the Indian Air Force's strike fleet. All the other variants, such as the MiG-23 BN & MiG-23 MF and the pure MiG 27 have already retired from Indian Air Force.
"These aircraft have made immense contribution to the nation, both during peace and war. The fleet earned its glory in the historic Kargil conflict when it delivered rockets & bombs with accuracy on enemy positions. The fleet also took active part in Op-Parakram," the Ministry of Defence said. The upgraded MiG 27, because of its survivability, has also participated in numerous national and international exercises.
Currently, IAF's Number 29 Squadron is the only unit that operates the MiG 27 Upgrades. The Squadron was raised on 10 March 1958 at Air Force Station Halwara with the Ouragan (Toofani) aircraft. Over the years, the squadron has been equipped with numerous types of fighter aircraft including MiG 21 Type 77, MiG 21 Type 96, MiG 27 ML and MiG 27 Upgrade.
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"The Squadron is now slated to be number plated on 31 Mar 2020 with 27 December 2019 being its last flying day thereby making the swing-wing fleet a part of IAF's glorious past," MoD said.
Various functions have been planned for the MiG 27's de-induction ceremony at Air Force Station Jodhpur. Veteran air warriors along with serving air warriors in large numbers are taking part in the ceremony. Air Marshal SK Ghotia VSM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief South Western Air Command will preside over the ceremony.