Indonesia Cancels Mirage 2000 Purchase, Should India Step in ?

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Indonesia has officially scrapped its plan to acquire 12 used Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets from Qatar, citing concerns about the high price tag and the relatively old age of the aircraft. This decision comes after months of negotiations and speculation surrounding the deal, which was valued at €733 million (approximately $790 million).

While the Qatari Mirage 2000-5s, delivered in 1997, are younger than some currently in operation elsewhere (ranging from 25 to 27 years old), they still faced concerns about their age and associated maintenance costs. Previous potential buyers like India and Pakistan also walked away due to these factors.

India’s experience with upgrading its own Mirage 2000s to the 5 standard highlighted the potential costs involved in maintaining a smaller fleet of a different variant. India already operates 5 standard Mirages and adding the Qatari jets could be easy on the resources and expertise.

While the Qatari Mirage 2000-5s offered potential longevity and capabilities, the price tag and age concerns ultimately outweighed the benefits. The IAF is likely to focus on alternative solutions and accelerate the Tejas MkII program to ensure a smooth fleet transition. Greece also has offered older Mirage 2000s, but their age and the estimated €130 million upgrade cost per unit make them unattractive for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

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