Currently, the IAF operates two MiG-21 squadrons, and their retirement will reduce the total number of combat squadrons to 29, one of the lowest in decades. As per Indian defense policy, the IAF requires at least 42 squadrons to prepare for a potential two-front conflict with Pakistan and China, with each squadron comprising 16–18 aircraft.

The UK’s F-35B Lightning II fighter jet remained grounded at Thiruvananthapuram airport for over five weeks. Now, the aircraft is finally ready to take off again. The jet is a fifth-generation stealth fighter.

One of the advanced jets has been stranded in India following an emergency landing, highlighting a risk of deploying top tech overseas.

United States President Donald Trump has said up to five fighter jets were shot down during the recent India-Pakistan conflict, which erupted after an April attack in Indian-administered Kashmir brought the nuclear-armed neighbours to the cusp of their fifth all-out war, before a ceasefire in May.

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MP Mahua Moitra on Saturday targeted the Narendra Modi government on its silence over the military losses allegedly occurred during the India-Pakistan conflict after India launched Operation Sindoor.