CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
A SEPECAT Jaguar fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) recently crashed in Churu district, Rajasthan, resulting in the tragic death of both pilots. This marks the third Jaguar-related accident in 2025, raising questions about the ageing jet's continued operation. Despite the setbacks, the IAF still plans to retain the Jaguar fleet until approximately 2040.
Background: A British-French Collaborative Fighter
The Jaguar was born from a joint initiative between the UK and France in the 1960s under the SEPECAT (Société Européenne de Production de l’Avion d'École de Combat et d'Appui Tactique) project. Originally conceived as a jet trainer, it evolved into a supersonic tactical support aircraft capable of carrying out nuclear strikes. The aircraft made its maiden flight in 1968 and was formally inducted into Indian Air Force service in 1979.
Design And Combat Features
The Jaguar is powered by two Rolls-Royce Turbomeca Adour engines and features a swept-wing design. It is armed with two 30mm cannons and has seven external hardpoints to carry a wide array of weapons, including bombs, missiles, and rockets. With a top speed of Mach 1.6 and an operational ceiling of 46,000 feet, it has been deployed in multiple global conflicts, including in Iraq, Bosnia, and Pakistan. Additionally, it has been used as a nuclear delivery platform by the UK, France, and India.
Jaguar In Indian Air Force Fleet
India signed a $1 billion deal in 1978 for the Jaguar and began receiving aircraft on lease from the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1979. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) later started licensed production of the aircraft, which continued until 2008. Over 160 Jaguars were inducted into the IAF in various versions:
IS – single-seat strike variant
IB – twin-seat trainer
IM – maritime variant for the Indian Navy
Currently, about 115 Jaguars remain in active service.
Jaguar Will Last Until 2040
Despite its age, several factors support the Jaguar's extended operational timeline:
Delay in Indigenous Fighters - India’s indigenous fighter program, especially the HAL Tejas, has faced delays, limiting options for replacing older aircraft. The IAF's fighter squadron numbers remain below the sanctioned strength, necessitating continued use of older platforms.
Effective Strike Capabilities - The Jaguar continues to perform well in deep penetration and nuclear strike missions. With modern upgrades such as the DARIN III avionics suite, Israeli radars, and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles it has maintained combat relevance.
Cost-Effectiveness and Maintenance - The aircraft is relatively easy to maintain, with quick engine replacement possible and spare parts salvaged from decommissioned jets. These aspects help keep operational costs low.
Recent Roles And Modernisation
The Jaguar recently took part in Operation Sindoor in May 2025, demonstrating its long-range strike capability and air-to-air combat potential. Around 60 Jaguars are being modernized to the DARIN III standard, effectively extending their service life by up to 15 years. The rest of the fleet is expected to be phased out gradually by the early 2030s.
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