SOURCE: AFI
Vijainder K Thakur, a retired IAF Jaguar pilot, has made a compelling case for extending the service life of the Jaguar strike aircraft fleet beyond its planned retirement date of 2035. In his column, Thakur argues that phasing out the Jaguar could have a detrimental impact on the IAF’s operational capabilities.
The Jaguar is a versatile aircraft renowned for its ability to fly at low altitudes over long distances. This unique capability, coupled with its potent armament, makes the Jaguar a valuable asset to the IAF. Thakur highlights that at 200 feet outside AWACS coverage, a Jaguar’s stealth profile surpasses that of an F-22 Raptor flying at higher altitudes.
To prolong the Jaguar’s service, Thakur proposes implementing Life Extension Programs (SLEP) on the airframe. These programs would involve fatigue testing and structural reinforcements to enhance the aircraft’s lifespan. However, he acknowledges that such a task would be challenging for an airframer like HAL without the assistance of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
To address the powerplant limitations of the Jaguar, Thakur suggests retrofitting it with a reheat variant of the underdevelopment HTFE-25 25-kN Thrust Class Engine. This engine, originally proposed by HAL, could provide a significant power boost to the Jaguar, enhancing its performance and range. Alternatively, the Adour Mk.811 engines, which currently power the Jaguar, could be upgraded to a more powerful variant, providing a viable solution.
Thakur’s arguments underscore the importance of carefully considering the implications of retiring the Jaguar. By implementing SLEP and exploring engine upgrade options, the IAF can potentially extend the aircraft’s service life and maintain a critical operational capability.