Indian Air Force Jaguar Trainer Crash Results in Pilot Fatalities; Investigation Underway
An Indian Air Force Jaguar Trainer aircraft crashed during a routine training exercise near Churu, Rajasthan, on Wednesday afternoon, tragically resulting in the deaths of both pilots on board. The crash took place at around 3:38 PM IST. Authorities confirmed there were no civilian casualties or damage to property.
The Indian Air Force expressed profound sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to the families of the deceased pilots. A court of inquiry has been initiated to investigate the cause of the crash. Officials have promised a thorough investigation to identify contributing factors and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This marks the third Jaguar crash reported in 2025, following incidents in Ambala on March 7 and Jamnagar on April 2. The Jaguar fleet, which was inducted in the late 1970s and has undergone modernization over the years, has faced increasing scrutiny due to recurring mechanical issues and safety concerns.
Trainer variants, which are often subjected to high-frequency flight cycles, statistically face a higher risk of accidents. A study by the Centre for Air Power Studies found that Indian trainer jets average 1.2 crashes annually, with reasons ranging from mechanical fatigue to human error. While the exact cause of this crash remains undetermined, technical and procedural factors are under close examination.
It has been reported that the pilots remained low and did not eject to prevent the aircraft from crashing into populated areas.
The latest accident has intensified calls within defense circles to expedite the phasing out of aging aircraft and accelerate the induction of modern jets to ensure pilot safety and maintain combat readiness. As the investigation continues, the loss of the two pilots serves as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by India’s air warriors in service to the nation.
