How an Indian Air Force Jaguar Crashed in Rajasthan’s Churu

How an Indian Air Force Jaguar Crashed in Rajasthan’s Churu

An Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet crashed near Bhanuda village in Rajasthan’s Churu district on July 9, 2025. This marks the third Jaguar mishap since March, raising concerns about the fleet’s safety.

The incident occurred in Ratangarh town, prompting immediate rescue operations.

Crash Details

The Jaguar, a twin-seater aircraft, crashed around 1:25 PM in an agricultural field in Bhanuda village. Eyewitnesses reported smoke and flames, with wreckage scattered over a large area. Local police and IAF teams rushed to the site. Human remains, likely those of the pilots, were found near the crash site, indicating a severe impact.

The IAF has not officially confirmed casualties, but sources report at least one pilot’s death. Emergency protocols were activated, and the area was secured for investigation.

 Recent Jaguar Mishaps

This is the third Jaguar crash in 2025, following incidents in March and April. On March 7, a Jaguar crashed in Haryana’s Morni hills after taking off from Ambala airbase; the pilot ejected safely. In April, another Jaguar crashed in Gujarat’s Jamnagar district, killing one pilot.

These repeated incidents have sparked concerns about the aging Jaguar fleet, introduced in the 1970s. The IAF operates around 120 Jaguars, critical for deep-strike and ground-attack missions.

Background of the Jaguar Fleet The Jaguar, built by Anglo-French collaboration, has been a mainstay of the IAF since 1979. Designed for low-level penetration and precision strikes, it carries advanced avionics and weaponry.

However, the fleet is aging, with many aircraft over four decades old. Maintenance challenges and outdated systems have been flagged as concerns. The IAF has been upgrading its Jaguars with modern radar and engines, but delays in modernization have strained operational reliability. These crashes highlight the urgency of fleet upgrades or replacements.

Possible Reasons for the Crash

The exact cause of the Churu crash is under investigation. Initial reports suggest a technical malfunction, a recurring issue with the Jaguar fleet. Aging airframes, engine failures, or avionics glitches are potential culprits.

Human error, though less likely, remains a possibility pending the probe. The March and April crashes were also linked to technical issues, with the Gujarat incident citing engine failure. Harsh weather or bird strikes, common in Rajasthan’s desert terrain, could also be factors. The IAF is analyzing black box data to pinpoint the cause.

Indian Air Force Response

The IAF confirmed the crash and ordered a Court of Inquiry to investigate. A statement from defense sources said, “A Jaguar fighter aircraft of the IAF crashed near Churu district. Rescue operations are underway, and further details are awaited.”

 The IAF has not disclosed the pilots’ status or the crash’s cause, emphasizing the ongoing probe. After the Gujarat crash, the IAF grounded some Jaguars for inspections, a step likely to be repeated. The force is under pressure to address safety concerns while maintaining operational readiness.

These crashes raise questions about the IAF’s aging fleet and modernization delays. The Jaguar incidents underscore the need for newer aircraft like the Rafale or indigenous Tejas to replace outdated platforms. Budget constraints and slow procurement processes have hampered fleet upgrades.

The crashes also impact pilot morale and public confidence in the IAF’s capabilities. With India facing regional security challenges, maintaining a robust air force is critical.

The government may face calls to fast-track acquisitions and invest in maintenance infrastructure to prevent further mishaps. The Churu crash is a tragic reminder of the risks faced by IAF pilots and the challenges of operating aging aircraft. As the investigation unfolds, the IAF must balance operational demands with safety upgrades. The findings of the Court of Inquiry will be crucial in addressing technical issues and preventing future tragedies.

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