SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is mulling a proposal from Greece to acquire its recently decommissioned Mirage 2000 fighter jets. This potential deal, discussed during Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s recent visit to India, could offer valuable resources for sustaining the IAF’s existing Mirage 2000 fleet until its planned retirement in 2035.
Details remain fluid, but reports suggest Greece is offering the 18 jets at highly attractive prices. An IAF team would need to inspect the stored aircraft before any agreement is finalized.
The primary rationale behind this exploration lies in Dassault’s 2007 production halt for the Mirage 2000. Acquiring spare parts and maintaining the IAF’s existing fleet becomes increasingly challenging as original equipment manufacturers phase out support. The Greek jets, if in suitable condition, could provide a cost-effective source for necessary components.
However, uncertainties remain. Whether the offered jets include trainer variants needed by the IAF’s training program is unclear. Additionally, questions hang over the feasibility of refurbishing certain jets for active service within the IAF.
This potential deal highlights India’s ongoing efforts to balance operational needs with economic considerations. While seeking to optimize the remaining lifespan of its Mirage 2000 fleet, the IAF must carefully weigh the cost-effectiveness and viability of acquiring used aircraft compared to alternative solutions.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DMCA and Legal Notices.