Deepender seeks replacement of IAF’s ageing Jaguar jets

On the occasion of the 93rd Air Force Day, Congress MP Deepender Hooda has urged the government to immediately phase out the IAF’s ageing Jaguar fighter jets and fast-track the procurement of modern aircraft to ensure the safety of pilots and enhance India’s aerial combat readiness.

Hooda said the ageing Jaguars have already claimed precious lives in recent crashes. “Two accidents, one in April and another in July, involving Jaguar fighter jets have resulted in the death of skilled pilots. This is an irreparable loss not only to the armed forces but to the entire nation,” he said.

The Rohtak MP pointed out that countries such as Britain, France, Oman, and Nigeria have long retired the Jaguar fleet, yet India continues to rely on them for key operational roles. “Our continued dependence on these aircraft poses a threat to both the lives of IAF personnel and the operational capabilities of the Air Force,” Hooda added.

He also expressed concern over the declining defence expenditure, saying, “The share of defence allocation in the national Budget has fallen from 2.5 per cent of GDP to 1.9 per cent — the lowest since 1962.”

He urged the government to prioritise modernisation of the IAF and provide pilots with safe, world-class resources that reflect India’s growing strategic stature.