SOURCE: AFI
Several air forces are looking to offload their Mirage 2000 fighter jets, and India, a recent Rafale acquirer, finds itself as a potential buyer. But are these used Mirages a good deal, or could India be becoming a dumping ground for outdated jets?
Developed by Dassault Aviation in the late 1970s, the Mirage 2000 was designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern aerial warfare. It quickly became a favorite among pilots and military strategists for its exceptional performance, ease of maintenance, and adaptability to various combat scenarios. The aircraft’s delta wing design and powerful SNECMA M53 engine allowed it to achieve impressive speeds and maneuverability, making it a formidable opponent in dogfights and a reliable asset in strike missions.
The Mirage 2000, a 4th generation fighter jet, is a capable aircraft that served numerous air forces for decades. However, as countries upgrade to more advanced jets like the Rafale, their Mirage fleets are nearing retirement.
Greece has offered its nearly worn-out Mirage 2000-5s to India, suggesting they could be used for spare parts. Greece also procured Rafale recently and are keen to dispose older Mirage 2000-5s and already have offered them to India.
Qatar, which also operates Rafale jets, is keen to dispose of its 12 Mirage 2000-5 aircraft, which still have about 30% of their service life remaining. After failing to secure a deal with Indonesia, Qatar is turning to India as a potential buyer.
The United Arab Emirates Air Force (UAEAF) has recently signed a deal to acquire nearly 80 Rafale jets, adding to its existing fleet of F-16s. The UAEAF currently operates approximately 59 Mirage 2000-9 aircraft, which it plans to phase out by 2030 as part of its modernization efforts. The UAE is also looking to join the Korean KF-21 5th generation fighter jet program, indicating a clear shift towards newer technologies.
India has been seen as a viable option for countries looking to offload their Mirage 2000s. The Indian Air Force (IAF) already operates a fleet of Mirage 2000s, Since IAF plans to operate them till 2035 which will make it nearly oldest operator after French Air Force that will maintain its fleet till 2040 before they are replaced by 6th gen platforms.
While some might view India’s potential procurement of these used Mirage 2000s as becoming a “dumping ground,” it is essential to consider the strategic benefits. By acquiring these aircraft, India can extend the operational life of its Mirage 2000 fleet, ensuring continued air defense capabilities while new acquisitions and upgrades are planned and implemented.