India and Qatar engaged in discussions on Friday regarding the potential acquisition of 12 second-hand Qatari Mirage-2000-5 fighter jets. These talks, held in the national capital, involved a presentation to Indian officials about the current state of the aircraft. Defense sources informed ANI that the Mirage-2000 aircraft are in very good condition and still have significant operational life remaining.
The Indian side is evaluating the proposal with a focus on compatibility with its more advanced Mirage-2000 fleet. However, both Indian and Qatari aircraft share the same engines, which would facilitate maintenance if the acquisition proceeds.
The Qatari offer includes the 12 aircraft, along with missiles and additional engines, for around Rs 5,000 crore. However, India aims to negotiate a more reasonable price. Officials emphasized that the aircraft would be used for flying operations, not for spare parts or maintenance purposes.
During the Covid period, the Indian Air Force secured a substantial number of spares and equipment from a French vendor through a second-hand deal. The potential Qatari deal could increase the number of Mirages in India’s fleet to 60. The Mirage fleet, based in Gwalior, has been crucial for the Indian Air Force, playing key roles in operations such as the Kargil war, the Balakot air strikes, and activities along the LAC with China on the northern frontier.
