SOURCE: AFI
India is reportedly considering an offer from Qatar for 12 used Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets. This move comes as the Indian Air Force (IAF) prepares to phase out its own fleet of Mirage 2000s by 2035.
Qatar has offered its fleet of 12 Dassault Mirage 2000-5 fighters, including spare engines and MICA air-to-air missiles, at a price of approximately ?500 crore (US$6.7 million) per aircraft as reported by Times now. An Indian Air Force team is scheduled to visit Qatar soon to inspect the jets.
Earlier this year, Indonesia had expressed interest in acquiring these same Mirage 2000s from Qatar. However, they ultimately decided against the purchase. The Qatari fleet comprises nine single-seat Mirage 2000-5EDA variants and three twin-seat Mirage 2000-5DDA trainers. The deal reportedly includes 14 spare engines.
Estimates suggest these jets have around 30-35% of their airframe life remaining, translating to roughly 10 years of operational service. This timeframe aligns well with India’s plans to phase out its existing Mirage 2000-5 fleet by 2035.
But their seems to be some confusion in the price mentioned as per older Reuters reports has said that, Qatar has asked for $795.14 million for whole deal of 12 jets that means each aircraft could come to US$66.25million and not US$6.7 million which is a steep price for aircraft with just 30-35% of their airframe life remaining.
While the potential acquisition of these pre-owned Mirage 2000s could help address a temporary shortfall in the IAF’s fighter jet strength. These jets could be used alongside India’s existing Mirage 2000s, providing additional firepower and flexibility until newer generation aircraft are fully integrated.