India and Qatar engaged in significant discussions in New Delhi concerning the proposed acquisition of 12 second-hand Qatari Mirage-2000-5 fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF). According to defence sources cited by news agency ANI, Indian officials were briefed on the current condition of the fighter jets during a presentation.

Officials have indicated that the Mirage-2000-5 jets are reported to be in excellent condition with significant remaining operational life, according to the report. Indian authorities are currently assessing the proposal, taking into account the compatibility of these aircraft with India's more advanced Mirage-2000 fleet.

The report suggests that maintaining two sets of aircraft would be more convenient for India due to their shared engine compatibility. However, discussions primarily revolve around the pricing of the jets. Qatar has proposed a deal valued at Rs 5,000 crore for the 12 aircraft, but India seeks a more favourable price point.

Additionally, the Qatari jets would be equipped with missiles and extra engines tailored for flight operations. Officials have highlighted that if the agreement is finalised, the aircraft will be deployed specifically for operational flying duties, rather than being allocated for spare parts and maintenance purposes.

Key factors include the assessment of remaining flight hours and residual lifespan, crucial for determining the value proposition. The significant expected residual life is seen as advantageous for bolstering the current Mirage squadrons, ensuring their operational capability remains robust for years ahead.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Indian Air Force (IAF) procured a substantial quantity of spare parts and equipment from a French vendor. In August 2021, the IAF finalised a Rs 300 crore deal with a French company to acquire retired Mirage 2000 aircraft intended for use as spare parts.

If the proposed agreement with Qatar materialises, the IAF's Mirage aircraft fleet will expand to 60 aircraft in total. This fleet has played pivotal roles in various significant operations conducted by the IAF, including the Kargil war and the Balakot air strikes.

Image source: ANI