India Acquires Retired Jaguars from Oman to Sustain Air Force Fleet

India is set to enhance its operational capabilities by acquiring retired SEPECAT Jaguar strike aircraft from Oman. This move underscores India’s unique position as the only nation still operating this Anglo-French aircraft, which has been a crucial component of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) fleet. The decision comes in light of ongoing challenges related to diminishing fighter strength and delays in the induction of newer aircraft.

Details of the Acquisition

According to The War Zone, India and Oman have reached an agreement for the transfer of an unspecified number of Oman’s retired Jaguars. The Royal Air Force of Oman operated a total of 27 Jaguars, including 20 single-seat fighters, five twin-seat trainers, and two ex-Royal Air Force jets. Since the fleet was retired in 2014, at least 13 of these aircraft have been involved in accidents, leaving approximately 14 airframes likely to be usable. Additional components may also be salvaged from aircraft deemed unserviceable during their operational tenure.

The acquisition process will involve dismantling the aircraft in Oman before shipping the parts to India. This strategy aims to streamline logistical challenges associated with transportation, thereby aiding in the efficient maintenance of India’s existing Jaguar fleet.

Historical Context and Operational Significance

The IAF first inducted the Jaguar in 1978, selecting it for its deep penetration strike requirements. Initially, India acquired 18 aircraft from British stocks, followed by a direct purchase of 40 from British Aerospace. Over time, around 128 additional Jaguars were produced under a technology transfer agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

Currently, the IAF operates six Jaguar squadrons, each typically consisting of between 18 and 20 aircraft. However, the fleet has been shrinking; in 2023, three Jaguars were lost in separate incidents. The last new Jaguar built in India rolled off the production line in 2008, marking the end of domestic manufacturing while production in the UK and France had ceased years prior.

Acquiring parts from Oman reflects the IAF’s commitment to maintaining the operational capability of this proven strike aircraft, even as the challenges of an ageing fleet become more pronounced.

In a bid to sustain its fleet, the IAF previously sought assistance from France between 2018 and 2019. France, which retired its last Jaguars in 2005, facilitated the transfer of 31 complete airframes and various components to India at minimal costs, covering only the transportation fees. This support has been vital in prolonging the operational life of the Indian Jaguars, which continue to play a significant role in the IAF’s capabilities.

As the Indian Air Force navigates the complexities of sustaining an ageing fleet while addressing the slow induction of replacements, the acquisition of retired Jaguars from Oman signifies a strategic effort to ensure that this essential aircraft remains a part of India’s aerial arsenal.