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India turns to dismantled Jaguar jets to sustain its air force fleet
India acquired nine retired British-built Jaguar ground-attack jets to be dismantled for spare parts, a move analysts called a stopgap that highlights reliance on foreign components and slower aircraft replacement.
India is seeking spare parts for its depleted fighter fleet by acquiring nine retired British-built Jaguar ground-attack jets, according to SCMP Economy.
The aircraft will not enter service with the Indian Air Force, instead they will be dismantled to support sustainment of India’s six operational Jaguar strike squadrons, which total about 120 aircraft.
Analysts said the acquisition is a practical stopgap but also underlines weaknesses in India’s air power, including dependence on foreign components and an inability to induct replacement aircraft quickly enough.
SCMP Economy also cited Kapil Kak, a former Indian air vice-marshal, who attributed the fleet decline to slow indigenous production, shortages of skilled manpower, and shortcomings in fulfilling contracts and obligations.