The long standing defense relations between India and Oman have once again been strengthened. Oman Air Force is transferring more than 20 of its Jaguar fighter aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF). These will not be used for flight, but as spare parts—a move that may sound less attractive, but is extremely important for India’s current operational needs.
Why are these old Jaguar aircraft important for IAF?
The Indian Air Force still has six squadrons of Jaguar, each consisting of around 18–20 aircraft. Very few countries in the world are still using this Anglo-French fighter aircraft. Many countries including Britain, France and Oman have already retired them.
In such a situation, the biggest challenge is the availability of spare parts. The production line has been shut down, and other air forces have also emptied their stocks. Therefore, India’s options are limited—spare must be procured from wherever possible.
Oman, which is a close defense partner of India, has approved the handing over of its retired Jaguars to India. By dismantling them, spares will be taken out and the life of the existing fleet of IAF will be increased.
Jaguar: battle-tested aircraft
Jaguar was first inducted by the Indian Air Force in 1979. After this, this aircraft has proved its capability in many operations of India-
In the Kargil war of 1999
In many strategic operations against Pakistan
Although they have been upgraded over time, the nearly four-decade-old fleet now demands extensive maintenance. Lack of spare parts is its biggest challenge.
Even in the past-
France gave about 30 retired Jaguars to India for spare.
Britain and Oman also offered some aircraft
Now 20+ Jaguars of Oman will prove to be very useful for India.
Current situation of IAF: Why will it have to run on Jaguars only?
The Air Force currently has only 30 squadrons, whereas its requirement is said to be at least 42 squadrons.
Many older aircraft are being retired, and it will take time for new aircraft to arrive—
Two squadrons of Rafale have been inducted
Discussion continues on 114 additional Rafale or MRFA aircraft
Around 200 Tejas fighter aircraft have been ordered, but their delivery will be in a phased manner.
In such a situation, it is not possible to immediately remove the Jaguar fleet. That is the situation that-
The longer Jaguars can be kept serviceable, the better.
Why is this step of Oman important from diplomatic point of view
India and Oman’s military relations are decades old
Oman was one of the first Gulf countries to allow logistics support to the Indian Navy
Now Jaguar transfer further strengthens the trustful partnership between the two countries
The message for the IAF is very clear—
“Thank You, Oman.”
