IAF’s Jaguar Darin-III Jets to Fly Beyond 2035 with Major Radar and Missile Upgrades
The Indian Air Force’s Jaguar Darin-III fighter jets are set to remain in active service well past 2035, following a confirmation from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This development comes as part of an extensive upgrade program that significantly improves the aircraft’s performance, weapon systems, and mission capabilities, ensuring the ageing fleet stays combat-relevant in modern warfare.
The Jaguar, a twin-engine deep-penetration strike aircraft of Anglo-French origin, has served the IAF faithfully since the late 1970s. Designed to deliver precision strikes over long distances, it has been a core part of India’s aerial strike power. Over the decades, the aircraft has been continuously upgraded, with the most recent and advanced version being the Jaguar Darin-III.
Under the Darin-III upgrade program, HAL has completely modernised the aircraft’s avionics, displays, sensors, and fire-control systems. At the heart of these improvements is the integration of the ELM-2052 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. Unlike older radars, the AESA radar can track multiple airborne and ground targets simultaneously, even in environments with electronic interference. This makes the Jaguar more capable in both air-to-ground and air-to-air combat roles.
In addition to the radar, the aircraft has also been equipped with the ASRAAM (Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile), which significantly boosts its air combat ability. ASRAAM is a modern infrared-guided missile that can hit targets at high speeds with great accuracy, giving the Jaguar Darin-III an edge in close combat situations. These upgrades make the aircraft more versatile — capable of taking on enemy fighters, delivering precision strikes, and conducting tactical reconnaissance with much higher reliability.
HAL’s role in extending the service life of the Jaguar is also a showcase of India’s growing self-reliance in defence. The upgrade was carried out entirely within India, demonstrating the technical capabilities of the country’s aerospace sector. This supports the Indian government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which aims to reduce dependence on foreign defence equipment and strengthen indigenous manufacturing.
While the upgraded Darin-III variants will continue to serve for at least another decade, the IAF has decided to start retiring the older Darin-I and Darin-II variants between 2028 and 2029. These older versions, which haven’t received the same level of technological upgrades, are nearing the end of their operational life. Phasing them out will help the IAF streamline its fleet and focus resources on more advanced platforms.
The decision to retain the Jaguar Darin-III is also in line with the IAF’s broader strategy of balancing fleet modernisation with cost-effectiveness. As India gradually inducts newer aircraft such as the Tejas Mk1A and prepares for future acquisitions, extending the life of upgraded legacy platforms like the Jaguar offers an efficient way to maintain air combat readiness without compromising operational capability.
In summary, the Jaguar Darin-III upgrade is a powerful example of how modernisation and strategic planning can breathe new life into older aircraft. With enhanced radar, cutting-edge missiles, and a fresh lease of life beyond 2035, the Jaguar continues to fly high as a vital part of India’s airpower.
