goodbye MiG 27

 

 

FOR three decades and more, the Indian Air Force (IAF) depended heavily on MiG 27 swing-wing fighter aircraft. All these years, the aircraft proved to be a multiple-use machine that India’s Air Warriors used with confidence and aplomb. Time has come to say goodbye to the celebrated, incredibly credible aircraft. This is certainly an emotional moment for the IAF. In fact, the MiG 27 was one aircraft that was also a tribute to the Air Force whose technicians and pilots kept it is top condition far beyond its stipulated life.

 

The aircraft also proved to be a tribute to the great friendship India and Russia have enjoyed over decades. From now on, MiG 27 will not sculpt the skies, will not touch the skies with glory proving the truth in the great IAF motto Nabhah Sprushyam Deeptam! But then, such moments do come when old-generation machines have to be rested and are replaced by newer tools. But even as this happens, the IAF and the country -- and its enemies -- will never forget what the terrific metaphor of MiG 27 meant for everybody!