By invoking the "Jaguar model," the IAF is seeking a partner willing to provide full access to the aircraft's source codes and integration capabilities for radars, mission systems, and weaponry. This approach would reduce dependence on foreign OEMs and mitigate potential supply chain vulnerabilities arising from geopolitical factors.
However, this demand for autonomy could pose a challenge for aircraft manufacturers who traditionally rely on long-term service contracts and upgrade programs for sustained revenue. By internalizing the upgrade process, the IAF could significantly reduce the OEM's role in the lucrative post-sale support and modernization phases, potentially disrupting the established business model in the aerospace industry.