Understanding Form 700: The Technical Logbook Behind the MiG-21's Historic IAF Farewell

The Indian Air Force officially decommissioned the iconic MiG-21 fighter jet today in a ceremonial farewell event.

New Delhi:

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh conducted the final flight of the MiG-21 today as the historic aircraft fleet was formally retired during a significant farewell ceremony at Chandigarh Air Force Base.

The Indian Air Force's long-serving workhorse performed its last flight in a formation of three aircraft arranged in an inverted 'V' configuration.

During the decommissioning ceremony, the IAF's BAe Hawk Mk132 trainer aircraft and the renowned Surya Kiran aerobatics team executed impressive maneuvers to honor the retiring aircraft.

Following a traditional water cannon salute, Air Chief Marshal Singh presented the aircraft's Form 700 logbook to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in a symbolic gesture marking the conclusion of an era.

After the final sortie and the Form 700 handover ceremony, the Defence Minister reflected on the history of the Russian-origin MiG-21 and its six decades of service to the nation. He emphasized that the MiG-21 had been involved in numerous heroic missions throughout the years and played a crucial role in multiple wars and operations.

"From the 1971 war to the Kargil conflict, or from the Balakot airstrike to Operation Sindoor, the MiG-21 has consistently provided tremendous strength to our armed forces," stated Mr. Singh.

Form 700 serves as the technical log of a fighter jet. It contains comprehensive records of maintenance activities, technical issues, and malfunctions in machinery or components. This document remains with the fighter jet throughout its operational service.

The handover of Form 700 represents the official seal of an aircraft's retirement, formally removing it from active service records.

In summary, Form 700 includes:

Maintenance records: This document maintains a complete history of the aircraft's health, including any problems encountered during flights and a comprehensive record of issues with the airframe or its systems.

Onboard requirements: Form 700 accompanies each aircraft flight to ensure accessibility whenever needed to review the aircraft's maintenance status.

Communication tool: Ground technicians utilize Form 700 to document aircraft problems, while flight engineers use it as a communication medium between the crew and maintenance team regarding necessary repairs.