China, Pakistan Have Advanced To Fifth-generation Fighter Jets; Why, Then, Is India Acquiring The Aging Jaguar?

London: India is set to acquire nine retired SEPECAT Jaguar fighter jets from the United Kingdom. The primary objective of this procurement is to maintain the operational capability of the Indian Air Force's (IAF) aging Anglo-French SEPECAT Jaguar fleet. These retired jets will serve as a source for spare parts and sub-assemblies. The Indian Air Force has not yet commented on this development. This move comes at a time when China—India's primary adversary—has been operating fifth-generation fighter jets for years. China is also scheduled to deliver fifth-generation J-35 fighter jets to Pakistan by the end of this year.

Why are Retired Jaguars Awaiting Shipment to India?

According to reports, three retired Royal Air Force (RAF) Jaguar aircraft have been spotted at a British port, awaiting shipment to India. These retired jets have been carefully wrapped in white protective coverings. The remaining aircraft are also expected to be shipped to India soon. Additionally, over 150 types of spare parts and components are being imported for the IAF to help keep the Jaguar fleet operational.

How ​​Many Jaguar Fighter Jets Does India Have?

Currently, the Indian Air Force operates six squadrons of Jaguar fighter jets, comprising approximately 120 aircraft. Developed in the late 1960s and operational with the IAF since 1979, these Jaguars are deployed at bases in Ambala, Gorakhpur, and Jamnagar. The IAF operates three variants of the Jaguar fighter jet: the IS, IB, and IM.

What about the Jaguar Fighter Jet?

The SEPECAT Jaguar is a twin-engine, supersonic ground-attack fighter jet.
It is primarily designed for low-altitude precision bombing and nuclear strike missions. In the Indian Air Force, it is also known as 'Shamsher'. Currently, India is the only country in the world operating the Jaguar aircraft. The Jaguar fighter aircraft was jointly built in the 1960s by companies from Britain and France (Breguet and BAC) and was subsequently developed under the banner of SEPECAT (Société Européenne de Production de l'Avion E.C.A.T.).

What are features of the Jaguar Fighter Aircraft?

The Jaguar fighter aircraft can fly at a speed of approximately 1,699 km/h (around Mach 1.6). It excels at executing precision strikes while evading enemy radar by flying at low altitudes. It has the capability to carry air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, anti-radar missiles, and nuclear bombs. The aircraft is capable of carrying a payload of 4,500 to 4,760 kg of weaponry and ammunition. In addition to a 30mm cannon, it can be equipped with laser-guided bombs, anti-radar missiles, and air-to-air missiles. It is also fully capable of carrying nuclear bombs.