Speaking on the farewell for MiG-21 fighter jets after 62 years, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "The MiG-21 symbolises deep friendship between India and Russia." He stated, "From the war of 1971 to the Kargil conflict...from the Balakot airstrike to Operation Sindoor, there hasn't been a moment when the MiG-21 has not provided tremendous strength to our armed forces."