A day after Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav lost his life in a tragic Jaguar fighter jet crash near Jamnagar, Gujarat, his brother, Abhishek Yadav, took to social media to express his grief and frustration, criticising the Indian Air Force (IAF) for continuing to operate outdated aircraft. In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), he referred to the Jaguar fleet as “relics from the 70s,” questioning their continued use despite being phased out by other nations years ago.
“Lost my brother today, a void that’ll never fill. IAF’s still flying Jaguars relics from the 70s, retired everywhere else by 2007,” wrote Abhishek Yadav in his post.
The crash occurred on the night of April 2, during a routine training sortie. The Jaguar aircraft, a deep-penetration strike jet, had taken off from Jamnagar Air Force Station. It went down around 9:30 PM near Suvarda village, approximately 12 kilometers from Jamnagar city. While one of the two pilots on board managed to eject safely, Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Locals reported hearing a loud explosion followed by a plume of thick smoke. Siddharth’s body was recovered at the crash site shortly after the incident.
In a statement released on X, the Indian Air Force confirmed the crash and the launch of a Court of Inquiry to determine the exact cause. According to the IAF:
“An IAF Jaguar two-seater aircraft airborne from Jamnagar Airfield crashed during a night mission. The pilots faced a technical malfunction and initiated ejection, avoiding harm to the airfield and local population. Unfortunately, one pilot succumbed to his injuries, while the other is receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Jamnagar. IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident.”
The Jaguar fighter jets, inducted into the Indian Air Force in the late 1970s, have served as a key part of India’s aerial strike capability. However, their prolonged use and history of accidents have sparked frequent debates about fleet modernization and pilot safety.
This latest tragedy has reignited public scrutiny over the IAF’s continued reliance on aging platforms, with many calling for accelerated upgrades and replacement of vintage aircraft to safeguard the lives of India’s air warriors.
Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav, a native of Haryana, is remembered as a promising young officer who gave his life in service of the nation. The IAF, along with the entire country, mourns his loss.
On the night of April 2, 2025, India suffered a tragic loss when Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav perished in a Jaguar fighter jet crash near Jamnagar, Gujarat. The incident occurred during a routine training mission, casting a somber shadow over the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the nation. Hailing from Rewari, Haryana, the young pilot’s untimely death has left his family, friends, and colleagues in deep mourning.
The Jaguar aircraft, a deep-penetration strike fighter in the IAF’s fleet, took off from Jamnagar Air Force Station for what was intended to be a standard training sortie. At approximately 9:30 PM, the jet crashed in an open field near Suvarda village, about 12 kilometers from Jamnagar city. According to reports, the aircraft caught fire upon impact, and while one pilot managed to eject safely, Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav was unable to escape the wreckage. Local villagers discovered his body at the crash site, and emergency response teams, including police and firefighters, were swiftly deployed to the scene. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud explosion followed by thick smoke rising from the area.
Flight Lieutenant Yadav, a dedicated and promising officer, had recently become engaged, adding a poignant layer of sorrow to his passing. His family in Rewari, along with the tight-knit community of the IAF, are grappling with the immense grief of losing a son, fiancé, and comrade. Social media posts from those who knew him reflect the widespread sentiment of loss, with many invoking prayers for strength to his loved ones during this difficult time.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The IAF has ordered a court of inquiry to determine what led to the tragic incident, with preliminary reports suggesting a possible technical malfunction. The Jaguar, a mainstay of India’s air fleet since the late 1970s, has been involved in several accidents over the years, prompting ongoing efforts to upgrade its systems and ensure operational safety.
This loss underscores the inherent risks faced by the men and women of the armed forces, who put their lives on the line to protect the nation. Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav’s sacrifice serves as a stark reminder that freedom comes at a steep cost. As the nation mourns, his legacy will endure in the hearts of those he served alongside and the country he swore to defend.
On the night of Wednesday, April 2, 2025, a tragic incident occurred when an Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet crashed near Jamnagar Airfield in Gujarat, resulting in the loss of one pilot’s life. The two-seater aircraft, which was on a routine night training mission, went down in Suvarda village, approximately 12 kilometers from Jamnagar city, around 10 PM IST.
The IAF confirmed the crash on Thursday, April 3, stating that the aircraft encountered a technical malfunction, prompting both pilots to initiate ejection to avoid harm to the airfield and local population.
While one pilot ejected safely and is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Jamnagar, the second pilot succumbed to injuries sustained during the incident. The IAF expressed deep regret over the loss, stating, “IAF deeply regrets this loss of life and stands resolutely with the grieving family.”
Emergency response teams, including the Air Force, fire services, and local police, were swiftly deployed to the crash site, where footage showed the wreckage engulfed in flames, with debris scattered across the area.
The Jaguar, a twin-engine aircraft inducted into the IAF in the late 1970s, has been a mainstay of the force’s fleet, though this incident has reignited concerns about its aging infrastructure despite ongoing upgrades. The IAF has ordered a Court of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the technical malfunction that led to the crash.
This marks the second Jaguar crash in 2025, following an earlier incident near Ambala, Haryana, on March 7, where the pilot ejected safely.
The identity of the deceased pilot has not been officially released pending notification of the family. The incident has drawn condolences from across the nation, with many honoring the sacrifice of the fallen airman who served during a routine yet critical training operation. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
The fifth 25-tonne Bollard Pull (BP) Tug ‘Ojas’ was ceremonially launched at M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata, marking a key milestone in the Indian Navy’s push for enhancing its auxiliary maritime capability. The launch event was graced by Commodore Sanjay Kumar, President SSB, Kolkata, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
The launch of ‘Ojas’ is part of a contract for six 25T BP Tugs, signed with TRSL on 12 November 2021, under the Indian Navy’s broader strategy of indigenising its shipbuilding and support capabilities. The tugs are being indigenously designed and constructed in line with Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
Operational Utility and Capabilities
These tugs play a vital role in assisting naval ships and submarines during berthing, un-berthing, and manoeuvring in restricted harbour areas. Their robust design also enables them to provide afloat firefighting support to naval vessels either at berth or at anchorage. Additionally, they are equipped to undertake limited Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, adding to their operational versatility.
With the successful delivery of the first four tugs, the Indian Navy has already begun employing them in daily harbour operations, and the induction of ‘Ojas’ will further strengthen the Navy’s logistics and operational infrastructure at key naval bases.
Promoting Indigenous Shipbuilding
The construction and launch of these tugs are a significant demonstration of the Government of India’s focus on ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in the defence sector. These platforms, built by an Indian shipyard using domestic expertise, highlight the growing strength of India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.
Upon completion and commissioning of all six tugs, the Indian Navy will be better equipped to handle complex port operations and emergency support tasks, ensuring smoother and safer movement of its fleet across major naval bases.
The launch of ‘Ojas’ reflects the Navy’s continued commitment to enhancing its self-reliant maritime capabilities through sustainable, indigenous solutions.
The 4th edition of the bilateral Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) amphibious exercise, Tiger TRIUMPH 2025, between India and the United States was officially inaugurated on 01 April 2025 during a ceremonial event onboard INS Jalashwa (L41). The opening ceremony marked a key milestone in the deepening of Indo-U.S. strategic maritime cooperation and reflects the growing alignment of the two nations’ interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
Strengthening Joint Response and Interoperability
Tiger TRIUMPH (Tri-Services India-U.S. Amphibious HADR Exercise) 2025 focuses on enhancing interoperability and synergy across all domains of joint operations in the context of large-scale disaster relief and humanitarian assistance scenarios. The exercise showcases the ability of both nations to coordinate a comprehensive, integrated military response to crises in the region.
Harbour Phase: Planning, Exchange, and Engagement
The harbour phase of the exercise is being conducted at Visakhapatnam from 01 to 07 April 2025, and includes:
Joint mission planning for the sea phase
Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE) on special operations, emergency medical response, and multi-domain operations involving air, maritime, cyber, and space domains
Training modules and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at refining procedures established in earlier editions of Tiger TRIUMPH
Cultural engagements and sports activities to build mutual camaraderie and strengthen personal and professional bonds between the two armed forces
Sea Phase: Amphibious Operations and Joint Relief Efforts
The sea phase is scheduled from 08 to 12 April 2025, and will feature comprehensive amphibious and HADR operations, including:
Execution of operations through a Joint Combined Command and Control Center
An amphibious landing at Kakinada, followed by establishment of a joint humanitarian relief and medical camp
Indian Participation
Key Indian platforms and personnel participating in Tiger TRIUMPH 2025 include:
Indian Navy:
INS Jalashwa (Landing Platform Dock) with landing crafts and helicopters
INS Mumbai (Delhi-class destroyer)
Magar-class amphibious assault ship
INS Shakti (Deepak-class fleet tanker)
P-8I Long-Range Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft
MH-60R and Hawk aircraft
Indian Army:
Infantry Battalion Group with Mechanised Forces
Special Operations Forces from Army, Navy, and Air Force
Indian Air Force:
C-130 transport aircraft and Mi-17 V5 helicopters
Demonstration of air-portable BHISMA medical equipment
U.S. Participation
The United States is participating with a robust Task Force that includes:
U.S. Navy:
USS Comstock (Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship)
USS Ralph Johnson (Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer)
P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft
U.S. Marine Corps:
11th Marine Expeditionary Unit
1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion
U.S. Air Force:
C-130J transport aircraft
Subject matter experts for joint operations
U.S. Space Force:
Specialists supporting operations in space and cyber domains
U.S. Army:
Infantry and medical platoons
Civil-Military Operations Center
Multi-Domain Task Force Combined Information Effects Fusion Cell
A Model of Strategic Cooperation
Tiger TRIUMPH 2025 reflects the evolving comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States. By combining tri-service capabilities, the exercise demonstrates the ability of both militaries to respond swiftly and cohesively in humanitarian crises, natural disasters, and regional emergencies.
The joint statement issued at the opening ceremony reaffirmed the shared vision of free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific waters and the resolve of both nations to safeguard peace, stability, and humanitarian values through cooperative defence efforts.
In a significant step towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, a Project Sanction Order (PSO) under the ‘Make-I’ category has been signed between the Indian Navy and Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited for the design and development of a 6MW Medium Speed Marine Diesel Engine. The agreement was formalised in the presence of Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), and Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, at South Block, New Delhi.
This critical defence-industry partnership marks a major leap forward in the Government of India’s Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative in defence technology, aimed at reducing dependence on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for high-capacity marine propulsion systems.
Indigenous Marine Engine Development
The project will involve the development of a prototype diesel engine with an indigenous content of over 50%, at an estimated cost of ₹270 crore, of which 70% will be funded by the Government of India. In addition to the 6MW engine, the project scope includes the detailed design development of marine diesel engines in the range of 3MW to 10MW.
Once developed, these engines will be used for main propulsion and power generation on board Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard ships, supporting operational readiness and reducing the reliance on imported propulsion technologies.
Reducing Dependency on Imports
Until now, India has depended heavily on foreign OEMs for high-capacity diesel engines, a segment critical to the operational capability of naval platforms. The signing of this project sanction order signals the beginning of a new chapter in indigenous marine engine design and manufacturing, and is expected to drive the creation of a strong defence manufacturing ecosystem within the country.
Strengthening Aatmanirbhar Bharat
The initiative is aligned with the Government’s larger vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, as championed by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, and supports the push to indigenise critical defence technologies. The project will not only conserve foreign exchange but also accelerate capacity building, boost employment opportunities, and foster a robust industrial base in the marine and defence sectors.
The Indian Navy’s proactive role in enabling such projects reflects its continued commitment to fostering strategic self-reliance and innovation within the country’s defence establishment. This development marks a key milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global hub for defence manufacturing and technology.
Lieutenant General P K Mishra, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, along with the GOC of Counter Insurgency Force (Romeo), visited the Headquarters of Romeo Force in Rajouri on Wednesday to assess the prevailing security situation in the region. The visit underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to maintain stability in Jammu and Kashmir amid counter-terrorism operations.
During the visit, the GOC reviewed operational preparedness and commended the troops for their professionalism in handling challenging conditions in the Rajouri sector, a critical area under the White Knight Corps’ jurisdiction. The XVI Corps, headquartered in Nagrota, oversees the Romeo Force, which operates in the Rajouri and Poonch districts as part of Operation Rakshak—a counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism mission that has been active since 1990.
A photograph shared by the White Knight Corps on X showed the GOC and other military personnel posing in front of the “Gate of Salutation” at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, a monument inaugurated in 2019 to honor Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial, located near India Gate, has become a significant site for military tributes, replacing the Amar Jawan Jyoti as the primary venue for such ceremonies.
In a statement posted on X, the White Knight Corps highlighted the GOC’s appreciation for the invaluable contributions of veterans in supporting ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. A second image shared in the post depicted a group of military personnel alongside civilians, likely veterans, in a more informal setting, reflecting the Corps’ engagement with local communities and former soldiers in the region.
The White Knight Corps continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining security in Jammu and Kashmir, working in tandem with other security forces under Operation Rakshak to ensure peace and stability. The GOC’s visit to Rajouri reaffirms the Army’s commitment to addressing security challenges while fostering collaboration with veterans and local stakeholders.
Jamnagar, Gujarat – April 2, 2025: A Jaguar fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed in Jamnagar, Gujarat, earlier today, marking yet another incident involving the aging fleet of strike aircraft. The crash occurred during a routine training sortie, with preliminary reports indicating the presence of two pilots aboard the trainer variant of the aircraft.
According to Prem Sukh Delu, Superintendent of Police (SP) Jamnagar, one pilot has been successfully rescued and transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Rescue operations are currently underway to locate and extract the second pilot, whose condition remains unknown at this time. “There were two pilots in the trainer aircraft of the Air Force. One has been rescued and taken to the hospital. Operations are underway to rescue the other pilot,” Delu stated.
The incident was first reported by defense sources, with visuals of the crash site showing scattered wreckage, though specific details about the cause remain unclear. Senior IAF officials have arrived at the scene to oversee the response and assess the situation. The IAF has not yet released an official statement, but a Court of Inquiry is expected to be ordered to investigate the circumstances leading to the crash.
This marks the latest in a series of incidents involving the IAF’s Jaguar fleet, which has been a critical component of India’s strike and reconnaissance capabilities since the late 1970s. The aircraft, operated from bases including Jamnagar, Ambala, and Gorakhpur, have faced scrutiny due to their age and recurring technical issues. Just last month, on March 7, 2025, a Jaguar crashed near Ambala, Haryana, due to a system malfunction, though the pilot ejected safely in that instance.
Today’s crash has reignited discussions about the reliability of the Jaguar fleet, which numbers around 120 aircraft. While the IAF has been upgrading these jets with modern avionics like the DARIN III system, incidents like this highlight the challenges of maintaining an aging platform. More details are awaited as rescue efforts continue and the investigation begins.
The local community and authorities are on high alert, with emergency services mobilized to support the ongoing operations. Updates will follow as the situation develops.
When disaster strikes, heroes rise — and once again, the Indian Army has proven that courage and compassion know no borders. Following the devastating earthquake that hit Myanmar, the Indian Army has launched #OperationBrahma, extending a strong arm of support to the people of Mandalay.
Under this humanitarian mission, a fully operational 200-bed field hospital has been swiftly established by a 118-member medical team of Airborne Angels from the elite Shatrujeet Brigade, who were airlifted in record time by two IAF C-17 Heavy Lift aircraft.
The efforts on the ground speak volumes:
145 patients treated
34 admitted for inpatient care
550 laboratory tests conducted
33 X-rays performed
5 life-saving surgeries completed
This hospital is equipped for critical surgeries, emergency care, dental check-ups, diagnostic tests, and round-the-clock medical assistance — making it a beacon of hope for hundreds of earthquake victims.
This mission is not just about emergency care — it’s a reflection of India’s timeless value of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ — the belief that “The World is One Family.” It also underlines India’s unwavering ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, showcasing solidarity in times of need.
The Indian Army has gone beyond the call of duty — not as mere soldiers, but as global guardians of humanity. Every picture from the field is not just a story of rescue, but of resilience, kindness, and unity.
The National Defence Academy (NDA) has recently marked a significant milestone in its history by welcoming female cadets into its ranks. Among these pioneering women is Battalion Cadet Captain Ritul Duhan, who stands as a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the spirit of service. As the first batch of female cadets prepares to graduate, Ritul’s journey reflects not only her personal achievements but also the broader evolution of gender roles within India’s armed forces.
A Historic Induction
In 2021, the NDA opened its doors to female candidates for the first time in its 75-year history. This monumental decision paved the way for women like Ritul to pursue their dreams of serving in the military. Hailing from Hisar, Haryana, Ritul has always been driven by a passion for sports and academics. Before joining the NDA, she was an accomplished national-level athlete and a state-level debater, showcasing her multifaceted talents.
Ritul recalls the moment she learned about the NDA’s decision to accept female cadets: “It was a historic step to induct female cadets in the NDA. Being part of the first course inducted, I feel obliged and privileged.” This sense of responsibility weighs heavily on her, as she recognizes that her actions will influence future generations of women aspiring to join the armed forces.
Life at the NDA
The daily routine at the NDA is rigorous and demanding, designed to mold cadets into disciplined leaders. Ritul’s day begins at 5 AM, where she and her fellow cadets gather for the NDA prayer and the honour code. The camaraderie built during these early mornings fosters a sense of unity among the cadets, essential for their future roles as leaders.
A Typical Day
A day in the life of a cadet is structured yet varied:
Morning Drills: The cadets engage in outdoor training that includes physical exercises, which are crucial for building stamina and teamwork.
Academic Sessions: After physical training, cadets attend classes for their bachelor’s degrees, ensuring that they receive a well-rounded education.
Lunch and Recreation: Following classes, cadets enjoy lunch, often discussing the morning’s activities and preparing for the afternoon’s challenges.
Physical Training and Games: The afternoons are dedicated to physical training, sports, and other recreational activities, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness.
Study Time: Cadets have designated study periods to focus on their academic responsibilities.
Evening Procedures: The day concludes with the Ante Room procedure, where cadets review the next day’s agenda, followed by dinner and personal time.
This structured environment not only develops physical endurance but also instills leadership qualities, as senior cadets guide the daily schedule.
Ritul’s journey to the NDA was fueled by a desire to serve her country and a passion for the military. “When I read about the NDA, I was very impressed by its glorious history,” she shared. After completing her first year of engineering, she decided to pursue her dream of joining the armed forces, leading her to prepare for the NDA entrance exam.
Her hard work paid off when she successfully cleared the exam, a moment that filled her parents with pride. “The pride in my parents’ eyes made me realize this is what I was destined for,” Ritul reflected. This sense of purpose has been a driving force throughout her training.
Overcoming Challenges
The initial phase of integrating female cadets into the NDA was not without its challenges. Ritul acknowledges that there were uncertainties and unfamiliarities for both the female cadets and the academy staff. However, she emphasizes that significant progress has been made over the past three years. The academy has adapted its training protocols to better accommodate female cadets, recognizing the physiological differences and unique needs of women in the military.
Adaptations and Changes
Some of the notable changes implemented at the NDA include:
Physical Training Adjustments: Training regimens have been modified to ensure that they are inclusive and effective for female cadets.
Increased Opportunities: Female cadets now have access to the same training camps, games, and competitions as their male counterparts.
Support Systems: The establishment of mentorship programs allows junior cadets to seek guidance from their seniors, fostering a supportive environment.
These adaptations have not only enhanced the experience for female cadets but have also enriched the overall culture of the NDA.
As Battalion Cadet Captain, Ritul holds a position of leadership that comes with significant responsibilities. She understands that her role extends beyond completing her training; she is also paving the way for future female leaders in the armed forces. “We are not just completing our training; we are paving the way for future leadership and inspiring younger cadets who will follow our path,” she stated during a recent event aimed at motivating aspiring candidates to join the military.
Inspiring Others
Ritul’s journey serves as an inspiration for many young women who aspire to join the armed forces. She encourages them to embrace the opportunities available at the NDA, assuring them that any initial apprehensions will dissipate once they experience the training firsthand. “The NDA transforms you beyond your expectations, pushing your limits daily through a comprehensive program,” she advises.
Ritul emphasizes that the NDA is not just about military training; it is also a platform for personal growth and academic excellence. The curriculum is designed to ensure that cadets excel in both their military and academic pursuits. “It’s a platform for training and personal growth,” she asserts, highlighting the balance that the NDA maintains between education and physical training.
Academic Excellence
To thrive at the NDA, cadets must possess a strong academic foundation. Ritul herself excelled in mathematics, attempting 117 questions in the NDA entrance exam and scoring over 250 in that section. Her academic achievements underscore the importance of being well-rounded, a quality that is highly valued in military leaders.
Future Aspirations
As Ritul prepares to graduate, she reflects on her aspirations for the future. Upon completing her training at the NDA, she will join one of the respective forces’ academies for advanced military training before being commissioned into the armed forces. “I am excited about what lies ahead and look forward to serving my country with honor and dedication,” she states with conviction.
A Call to Action for Aspiring Cadets
Ritul’s journey is a powerful reminder of the opportunities available for women in the Indian armed forces. She encourages aspiring cadets to pursue their dreams relentlessly. “If we could do it, many more are doing it, and so can you all. NDA will not only make you tougher mentally but also physically. It teaches you how to push limits,” she asserts.
Battalion Cadet Captain Ritul Duhan’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and leadership. As she and her fellow female cadets prepare to graduate from the NDA, they symbolize a new era of inclusivity and empowerment within the Indian armed forces. Ritul’s journey serves as an inspiration to countless young women who dream of serving their country, proving that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
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