To,

The Honourable Raksha Mantri (Defence Minister)

The Indian Air Force Headquarters

We, the concerned citizens of India, respectfully submit this petition to request the timely retirement of the SEPECAT Jaguar aircraft from the Indian Air Force's active service.

The Jaguar, while a symbol of India’s strike capability for decades, has long passed its prime. Acquired in the 1970s and 80s, this aircraft has been retained well beyond its originally intended operational life. Despite several upgrades, the core airframe and systems remain antiquated in today’s high-tech warfare environment.

 

Our concerns are grounded in repeated incidents:

April 2, 2025 – A Jaguar crashed in Jamnagar, killing one pilot, Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav.

March 7, 2025 – A Jaguar crashed in Morni Hills, Haryana.

January 28, 2019 – A Jaguar crashed in Uttar Pradesh during a routine sortie.

August 1, 2014 – Another Jaguar crashed near Bhuj.

March 5, 2015 – A Jaguar crashed near Shahbad, Haryana.

 

These are only a few among many tragic incidents. We believe that every pilot's life is priceless. Flying machines that no longer meet modern safety standards is a disservice to the brave men and women who protect our skies.

India has already taken bold steps to modernize its air force with platforms like the HAL Tejas and plans for AMCA and MRFA acquisitions. Continuing to fly outdated Jaguars not only risks lives but also drains resources that could be better spent on modern aircraft.

 

We appeal to the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Air Force to:

1. Announce a exact timeline for the retirement of all remaining Jaguar aircraft.

2. Expedite the procurement or deployment of replacements such as HAL Tejas Mk1A/Mk2.

3. Ensure a comprehensive safety audit of current Jaguar squadrons until retirement is complete.

4. Honor the memory of pilots who lost their lives flying these aging machines by ensuring no further lives are lost to mechanical failure or outdated technology.

Let us protect those who protect us.