ThePrint CutTheClutter: Jaguar costs lives of 2 pilots: Story of IAF’s primary attack aircraft dragged past ‘end-of-life’
Jul 10, 2025
The discussion highlights the tragic loss of two pilots due to increasing crash incidents involving the aging Jaguar aircraft. It dives into the technological challenges of modernizing this crucial military asset, emphasizing the need for upgrades to enhance safety. Additionally, the show takes a lighter turn with a nostalgic recounting of a cricket match, showcasing Sunil Gavaskar's competitive spirit and discussing cultural pride in Indian cricket, including his thoughts on player appearance.
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Jaguar Crash Spike Raises Alarm
- Three Jaguar aircraft have crashed in peacetime within six months, compared to three over five years previously.
- This spike signals worrying safety or maintenance issues in the aging fleet.
Jaguar's Aging and Role Evolution
- Jaguar aircraft entered Indian Air Force service in 1979 and are now over 46 years old.
- Originally designed for low-altitude deep penetration strikes, they are now outdated for modern warfare.
Upgrade Costs Versus New Jets
- The Indian Air Force considered re-engineering Jaguars with new Honeywell engines.
- High costs made it more sensible to buy superior aircraft like the Rafale instead of costly Jaguar upgrades.