JAIPUR: An Indian Air Force (IAF) trainer jet crashed during a routine training mission in the western state of Rajasthan on Wednesday, resulting in the tragic death of both pilots, the IAF confirmed in a post on social platform X.
The crash occurred near Churu, a district located northeast of Rajasthan, under conditions that are currently under investigation. A formal inquiry has been initiated to determine the cause of the accident and assess if any technical or operational issues were involved.
This marks the third Jaguar fighter jet crash reported this year by the Indian Air Force. The earlier incidents took place in Panchkula, Haryana on 7 March, and near Jamnagar, Gujarat on 2 April. These recurring crashes have raised serious concerns regarding the airworthiness of the IAF’s Jaguar fleet, which has been in service for decades.
Authorities have extended their condolences to the families of the deceased pilots. The Indian Air Force reiterated its commitment to upholding safety protocols during all training missions while the crash investigation continues under high-level supervision.
