Retired MiG-21 aircraft installed on NIT-K campus

The National Institute of Technology – Karnataka (NIT-K) unveiled a retired MiG-21 aircraft installed in front of the main building at its Surathkal campus on Tuesday.

MiG-21 is a supersonic jet fighter and interceptor, which was developed in the 1950s and inducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 1963. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. began manufacturing it at Nashik in 1966 under license from the Soviet Design Bureau. The aircraft served the IAF in the 1965, 1971, and 1999 wars and was in operations until its last ceremonial flight in September 2025, a release said.

Srinivasa Rao Kola, professor in-charge of NADAL (NITK Academy for Defence, Adventure and Leadership), said the institute had requested the IAF in December 2023 to provide a retired aircraft. The IAF allotted this aircraft to NITK in January 2026 and shipped its components in July 2026. An IAF team assembled it in August and guided its installation in September 2026. “The aircraft, as well as a turboshaft engine installed behind the main building, are expected to inspire students enrolled in the NADAL, NCC, and other programmes,” he said.

Air Marshal B.U. Chengappa (retd.), who graced the event, said: “This aircraft is a twin-seater trainer variant of the MiG-21 with tandem cockpits. It was powered by an R-13 turbojet engine, and its delta wings made it manoeuvrable and stable, safe for air force trainees. It could also carry an external gun pod and bombs on underwing store pylons. It was in active operation with the IAF until September 2025 and was one of more than 100 trainer aircraft the IAF acquired and operated.”

Capt. Brijesh Chowta, MP, said an increasing number of youngsters from Dakshina Kannada are showing interest in serving the nation through the Armed Forces. “The MiG-21 installation should inspire students not merely to admire the aircraft but to aspire towards the spirit of service and excellence it represents,” he said.

M.M. Murugappan, chairman, Board of Governors, NIT-K said: “The installation of the MiG-21 is not only an inspiration for future generations, but also a reminder of the discipline, values, and sense of purpose that are essential for building a stronger nation.”