India evaluates Greek Mirage 2000-5 fighters for spare parts, training needs

WORLD  29 June 2024 - 06:59

India is considering acquiring 18 Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets from Greece, which are nearing the end of their operational life. While both governments have not disclosed the deal’s value, local Indian sources confirm the offer.

Indian experts will now conduct a technical evaluation of these jets, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

India’s interest in the Mirage 2000-5 primarily stems from the need for spare parts. As one of the major operators of this aircraft, India plans to keep its Mirage 2000 fleet operational until around 2035.

Since France no longer manufactures these jets or their parts, acquiring the Greek Mirage 2000-5s could provide essential components to extend the fleet's operational life, especially until the Tejas MkII is fully integrated into the Indian Air Force.

The deal includes a valuable two-seater variant, crucial for training pilots. India has lost two such trainers in recent accidents, making the condition of the two-seater critical. It needs to be either airworthy or suitable for parts to restore one of the lost trainers.

The inspection of the Greek Mirage 2000-5s will be vital in assessing the deal’s viability. If suitable, these aircraft could serve as parts donors or training platforms, offering a temporary solution until the Tejas MkII fighters are operational.

The Mirage 2000-5, developed by Dassault Aviation, is a versatile, single-engine, fourth-generation jet fighter. It excels in air superiority, ground attacks, and reconnaissance missions.

The aircraft features advanced electronics, including RDY radar, HUD, MFDs, and a precise navigation system. It also has systems like ECM, RWR, and chaff/flare dispensers for protection.

The Mirage 2000-5 can carry a wide range of weapons, including air-to-air missiles, laser-guided bombs, and air-to-ground missiles. It also has a 30mm DEFA 554 cannon for close combat.

The range varies with mission and load, reaching up to 3,335 kilometers with extra fuel tanks, and about 1,550 kilometers for combat without refueling.

Caliber.Az