Early retirement for RAF Jaguars

[Raptor]

Not the Jaguar car line. That would most certainly be a ridiculous topic to post here.

Apparently the Jaguars were scheduled for retirement a lot later(like, september or something), but had the date brought forward for some reason or other. My most sincere condolences to the RAF pilots, who will have to upgrade to the Typhoon.

Could somebody confirm the dates and oh, yes, they kept and EW and a standard model for the final ceremonial de-commisioning.

I think they did quite a good job while in service. Views?

[Globetrotter]

OH yes, I just creeped when I saw the topic's title... Poor Jaguar, it was so awesome! Yes, and nice...

Anyone knows if there is some of them going to museums or...

[Webmaster]

The reason was to free up funds for "urgent operational requirements". Like the Litening pods on the Tornado/Harrier, Sniper pods, additional Merlins and getting those HC.3 Chinooks back into service. All for the war effort.

Dates:
July 2004: Decision to retire in 2007
26 April 2007: Decision to retire early
30 April 2007: Retirement of last 16 Jaguars
25 May 2007: Disbandment of 6 Sqn, last fly-past of two Jaguars
29 June - 1 July 2007: Jaguar farewell weekend with two on static
October 2007: Original retirement date

It's not really a problem, the decision in 2004 was of more significance for the type. It's sad for the men and women of 6 Sqn though.

Surely some will go the museums and/or already have, but in the article I read it said that they would be transferred to RAF Cosford for use as ground instructional airframes. Also QinetiQ has two flying Jags at Boscombe Down for trials, not sure when they will be retired.

I've always had a soft spot for this little aircraft. I love the RAF two-seaters.

[Raptor]

Quite sad, huh?

And then the Harrier's time will come too...

[Gripen]

Harriers VTOL.. F-35's VTOL..

Harrier = F-35 Trainer?

[Globetrotter]

I don't know gripen, the system they use are different. One has only one engine, with four directionable outputs. The other has three engines, two for lift and one for thrust, that can also give lift if you put its nozzle in the desired way...

I am no expert, but I see the sytems are different. But it would serve for "vertical flying accustoming"??

[Raptor]

Wouldn't work. From what i see, the F-35 is going to be easier to fly vertical than the Harrier. Perhaps i'll buy one before they get scrapped.