India Air Force Bisons drawdown
On 3 October 2023, Air Chief Marshal (ACM) VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff, Bharatiya Vayu Sena (IAF, Indian Air Force), made the announcement at the press conference prior to the annual Air Force Day celebration, that the MiG-21Bison drawdown process is in its final stages.
According to ACM Chaudhari, this year's flypast, celebrating the 91st anniversary on 8 October, will see the MiG-21Bison participate for the last time.
The Bisons are still operational with three squadrons, all located in the state of Rajasthan. According to the Scramble Air Order of Battle these are No.3 Squadron Cobras at Nal/Bikaner AFS, No.4 Squadron Oorials at Uttarlai AFS and No.23 Squadron Panthers at Suratgarh AFS.
The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is the successor to the MiG-21. Currently, the IAF has two operational LCA Tejas Mk1 squadrons. Delivery of the first LCA Tejas Mk1A will start in February 2024.
Credit photo: Madpix (via planephotos.net)