MiG-21's Historic Legacy at Gwalior Airbase

The MiG-21 is a prestigious fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force, with a deep connection to Gwalior Air Base. Its capabilities were demonstrated against the US Air Force during the Cope India exercise in 2004. After 62 years of service, this aircraft is retiring from the Air Force today. Its flights in Gwalior have been a testament to bravery.
The Indian Air Force's MiG-21 fighter aircraft has witnessed bravery from the air to the ground at Gwalior Air Base. At Gwalior Air Force Station, one of the country's most important airbases, the MiG-21 Bison participated in the joint Cope India exercise between the Indian Air Force and the US Air Force in 2004. With a glorious 62-year history, this fighter aircraft, which is retiring from the Indian Air Force today, has a deep connection to Gwalior.

The MiG-21 has not been heard in Gwalior since 2022. The brave officers of Gwalior Air Base have made the country proud by flying the MiG-21. The MiG-21 has flown extensively at Gwalior Air Base, participating in various air force events, including wars. Officers stationed at the base have demonstrated their prowess with the MiG-21. It was first inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963.
The MiG-21 last participated in the air show at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The MiG-21 has a maximum speed of approximately 2,200 kilometers per hour. It can fly up to an altitude of 17,500 meters. It was equipped with air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. The aircraft's compact yet powerful design made it ideal for rapid attacks and aerial combat.

Cope India exercise was held in Gwalior in 2004.
The MiG-21 Bison demonstrated its combat capabilities during the Cope India exercise in Gwalior. In this exercise, IAF fighters were pitted against aircraft such as the United States Air Force's F-15. It also earned praise from US forces for its excellent performance in a dense electromagnetic environment. Throughout the exercise, the Bison took the lead due to its endurance and capability.