Jamnagar (Gujarat): An Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot lost his life, while another remains in critical condition following the crash of their two-seater Jaguar fighter jet near Gujarat’s Jamnagar Airfield. The IAF confirmed the tragic incident on Thursday, stating that the aircraft crashed during a routine night training mission late Wednesday in Suvarda village, approximately 12 km from Jamnagar city.
Videos Of Crash Site Go Viral
Footage circulating on social media showed the crash site engulfed in flames, with debris scattered over a vast area. The cockpit and tail section of the aircraft were spotted separately, consumed by fire.
IAF Issues Statement On Crash
The aircraft reportedly suffered a technical malfunction, compelling the pilots to eject. Despite their efforts, one pilot succumbed to his injuries, while the other is undergoing medical treatment at a hospital in Jamnagar. The IAF expressed deep sorrow over the loss and conveyed its condolences to the deceased pilot’s family. “IAF deeply regrets this loss of life and stands resolutely with the grieving family,” read the official statement.
A Court of Inquiry has been initiated to investigate the cause of the crash. The IAF stated that the pilots’ actions ensured no harm was caused to the airfield or nearby civilian areas.
Crash Took Place During Training Sortie
Reports quoting officials confirmed that the ill-fated Jaguar was on a scheduled training sortie when it met with the accident. The aircraft, known for its twin-engine configuration, has been an integral part of the Indian Air Force since its induction in the late 1970s. Designed for deep penetration strikes and ground attack missions, the Jaguar has played a vital role in India’s defence operations over the decades.
Another Jaguar Jet Crash Reported Earlier This Month
In a similar incident reported earlier this month, an Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar fighter aircraft crashed near Baldwala village in the Morni Hills area of Haryana’s Ambala district on March 7. The aircraft had taken off from the Ambala airbase for a routine training sortie when it encountered a system malfunction, prompting the pilot to eject.
Fortunately, the pilot managed to eject safely using a parachute before the aircraft went down. The crash created panic among local residents, who immediately alerted authorities. In response, local police rushed to the scene to assess the situation.
