CutTheClutter: Jaguar costs lives of 2 pilots: Story of IAF’s primary attack aircraft dragged past ‘end-of-life’

• 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.

India's Indian Air Force (IAF) relies heavily on aging Jaguar aircraft, with some jets being over 46 years old, like the trainer aircraft that recently crashed in Rajasthan.

The Jaguar, introduced in the late 1970s, was cutting-edge at its time but now faces severe limitations due to outdated airframes and engines losing significant power (15-30%). Modernization efforts like the Darin 3 upgrade provide Israeli ASA radar and advanced avionics but only cover two of the six squadrons, leaving most Jaguars outdated.

Replacing engines has been deemed too expensive compared to buying newer aircraft like Rafales, which offer superior capabilities at better value. This situation reflects a wider issue of technology deprivation and an urgent need for India to modernize its air force to minimize tragic losses and maintain combat readiness.

• 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• Originally designed for low-altitude deep penetration strikes, they are now outdated for modern warfare.