SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Greece is looking to sell its retired Mirage 2000 fighter jets, with India emerging as a potential buyer. This development comes amidst the ongoing modernization of the Indian Air Force (IAF), which currently operates the same type of aircraft. However, the age and technical specifications of the Greek Mirage 2000s raise questions about their suitability for India’s needs.
Greece is offering 18 Mirage 2000 EGMs and BGMs, retired in January 2022 with the arrival of more advanced Rafale jets. These aircraft were purchased in the late 1985 and grounded due to a lack of support, according to Greek officials. They claim the jets haven’t completed their technical lifespan, but concerns remain about their outdated technology.
The offered Mirage 2000s are equipped with older RDM radars and MC1 & MC2 Mission Computers, along with analogue cockpits. This stands in contrast to the IAF’s Mirage 2000Hs and 2000Is, which have undergone upgrades and possess more advanced capabilities.
The IAF is specifically looking for two used Mirage 2000 trainer aircraft for conversion training at the squadron level. While the Greek offer includes a larger number of aircraft, it’s unclear if they meet India’s specific requirements for trainers.
Experts have raised concerns about the suitability of the Greek Mirage 2000s for India. The outdated technology might necessitate significant upgrades and integration efforts, potentially negating any cost benefits of buying used aircraft. Additionally, the lack of spare parts and support for the older models could pose logistical challenges.
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