India Seeks to Acquire 9 Decommissioned Jaguars & 150+ Spares from the UK to Strengthen Air Force

India seeks nine decommissioned Jaguar aircraft and spare parts from the UK to address IAF attrition issues and maintain operational capabilities.

The Indian Ministry of Defence has officially requested the transfer of nine retired Jaguar aircraft from the United Kingdom. This request, which also includes a substantial number of spare parts, is aimed at addressing attrition issues within the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Jaguars play a crucial role in the IAF's deep penetration strike and tactical reconnaissance missions. Additionally, some of these aircraft have been modified for maritime operations, equipped with anti-ship missiles.

Details of the Request

The IAF is specifically seeking five single-seater GR-1 and four twin-seat T-2 Jaguar variants. Alongside the aircraft, approximately 150 different types of spare parts are also requested. If the deal is finalized, the transfer will be facilitated by the UK's Defence Equipment Sales Authority. The aircraft and parts will be shipped to Air Force Station Ambala, which currently houses two Jaguar squadrons.

Background and Significance

This acquisition follows a similar procurement strategy from France, where India acquired 31 decommissioned airframes, engines, and spare parts as part of the Rafale fighter jet offset agreement. The French airframes were primarily intended for cannibalization to maintain the serviceability of the existing Jaguar fleet.

The Jaguar aircraft, which are no longer in production, are currently only operated by the IAF. Other countries, including France, the UK, Oman, Nigeria, and Ecuador, have retired their fleets. India originally imported 40 Jaguar aircraft from the UK in 1979 and subsequently produced 150 under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Currently, the IAF operates approximately 115 Jaguars, but the fleet faces significant serviceability challenges due to the obsolescence of parts.

Modernization Efforts

To address these challenges, the IAF has undertaken a comprehensive modernization program over the past decade. This program includes upgrading the Jaguars with the DARIN-III advanced navigation and attack avionics suite. Additionally, there are projects underway to integrate new-generation close combat air-to-air missiles, transport platforms, cruise missiles, and UAVs. These upgrades aim to extend the operational lifespan of the Jaguar fleet by approximately 15 more years.

Conclusion

While acquiring decommissioned Jaguars provides a temporary solution to the issues of attrition and spare parts shortages, it highlights the need for the IAF to accelerate its modernization efforts. Transitioning to newer platforms will be crucial to maintaining operational capabilities in the long term.