India Receives Nine Decommissioned Jaguar Attack Aircraft From the United Kingdom

The Indian Air Force has received nine decommissioned Jaguar attack aircraft from the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence to support its existing fleet.

UK Defence Journal reported on this, citing a written response from Luke Pollard, Minister of State for Defence Readiness and Industry.

The UK Ministry of Defence transferred five GR1-version aircraft and four T2-version aircraft to India, while retaining 42 additional Jaguar aircraft in storage. These plans were previously reported in 2024.

India remains the last country operating Jaguar aircraft, known locally as the Shamsher. As the platform has long been out of production and original spare parts are becoming increasingly scarce, India is relying on former operators for technical support.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited produces most of India’s Jaguar fleet under license.

The United Kingdom ended Jaguar operations in 2007 due to cost-cutting measures. The 42 aircraft held in the UK Ministry of Defence storage are no longer airworthy.

The Jaguar attack aircraft was developed by the Franco-British SEPECAT consortium for low-altitude strike and reconnaissance missions. It entered service with the Royal Air Force in 1974 and saw combat during the 1991 Gulf War, as well as operations over Iraq and the Balkans.