India retires its MiG-21 jets after 62 years, replacing them with the newer Tejas Mk-1A.

India is retiring its MiG-21 fighter jets after 62 years of service, replacing them with the indigenously developed Tejas Mk-1A by September. Known for their high accident rate, the MiG-21s have been plagued by maintenance issues. The Tejas Mk-1A, newer and more advanced, will help modernize the Indian Air Force (IAF) and reduce reliance on foreign aircraft. However, production delays of the Tejas Mk-1A have temporarily reduced the IAF's operational strength.