IAF Jaguar Crash in Rajasthan Renews Fleet Concerns

A Jaguar IB trainer aircraft belonging to the Indian Air Force crashed during a routine training mission in Rajasthan’s Churu district on July 9, 2025, killing both pilots on board and sparking renewed concern over the IAF’s aging Jaguar fleet. The aircraft had departed from Suratgarh Air Force Station before crashing in an agricultural field near Churu city. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud explosion before spotting flames and smoke in the area. Video clips shared on social media show the wreckage engulfed in fire, with no reported civilian casualties or property damage.

The IAF confirmed the deaths of Squadron Leader Lokendra Sindhu and Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh, who were piloting the twin-seat trainer aircraft. In an official statement, the IAF said it “deeply regrets the loss of lives and stands firmly with the bereaved families in this time of grief.” A court of inquiry has been launched to investigate the cause of the crash, which remains unknown. This marks the third Jaguar crash since March 2025, with earlier incidents occurring in Morni Hills, Haryana, and Jamnagar, Gujarat, both reportedly due to technical issues.

The fatal crash has intensified scrutiny of India’s continued reliance on the nearly five-decade-old SEPECAT Jaguar fleet. First introduced into IAF service in 1979, the Jaguar is a twin-seat, twin-engine aircraft designed for close air support and deep penetration missions. India currently operates both combat and trainer variants of the aircraft, with the IB trainer also capable of combat missions.

Despite undergoing avionics upgrades under the DARIN-III modernization program, the Jaguar fleet continues to suffer from outdated navigation systems and underpowered engines. Although the IAF had considered upgrading the fleet with new Honeywell F125IN engines, the plan was eventually shelved due to high costs. The force has since relied on sourcing spares from the UK and France to keep the aircraft operational.

The Indian Air Force reportedly plans to begin phasing out its oldest Jaguars, with retirement expected for the first 60 aircraft between 2028 and 2031. However, this latest crash is likely to accelerate discussions on fleet replacement amid growing safety concerns and recurring technical failures.

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