NEW DELHI: An Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet crashed near Ambala, Haryana, during a routine training sortie on March 7. The pilot encountered a system malfunction shortly after takeoff but managed to eject safely, steering the aircraft away from populated areas to prevent ground casualties.
#FLASH : An IAF Jaguar fighter jet has crashed near Ambala. The pilot ejected safely and is reported to be unharmed. @IAF_MCC
Investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.
Reports @Nihal_kumar0045 #IAF #Jaguar #Ambala #BreakingNews pic.twitter.com/d0mu6HU69i
โ The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) March 7, 2025
The incident occurred in the hilly terrain of Panchkula district, with the aircraftโs wreckage scattered and some parts still on fire. The pilotโs prompt action in diverting the malfunctioning jet away from inhabited regions highlights the IAFโs emphasis on minimizing collateral damage during in-flight emergencies.
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The IAF has initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the system malfunction that led to the crash. Such incidents underscore the inherent risks associated with military aviation and the importance of rigorous maintenance and training protocols to ensure flight safety.
The SEPECAT Jaguar, introduced into the IAF in the late 1970s, is a twin-engine, ground-attack aircraft known for its deep penetration capabilities. Despite its age, the Jaguar remains a crucial component of Indiaโs defense strategy, though recent incidents have raised concerns about its operational reliability.
This crash adds to a series of similar incidents involving the Jaguar fleet. In June 2019, a Jaguar pilot jettisoned fuel tanks and practice bombs after a bird strike during a training sortie in Ambala, managing to land the aircraft safely.
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Additionally, in 2016, a Jaguar caught fire during takeoff at Ambala airbase, with the pilot aborting the mission and exiting safely.
These recurring incidents have sparked discussions about the need for modernization and potential replacement of aging aircraft within the IAFโs fleet. Ensuring the safety of pilots and the effectiveness of missions remains a top priority for the Indian Air Force.
