Source : IgMp Bureau
As the decade-long Mirage 2000 upgrade project approaches its culmination, the Indian Air Force (IAF) anticipates the delivery of the final upgraded aircraft by the year’s end. This milestone marks the end of a comprehensive initiative, fraught with challenges and delays, aimed at enhancing the combat capabilities of the Mirage 2000 fleet.
Decade-Long Upgrade Journey
Commencing in 2011, the ambitious project involved a $2.5 billion contract with Dassault Aviation to upgrade 51 Mirage 2000 fighter jets. The upgrade encompassed the integration of new avionics, radars, communication systems, and more, with an original completion target set for 2021. However, the program encountered various obstacles along the way.
Overcoming Challenges
1. Technical Complexity : The integration of advanced systems posed greater challenges than initially anticipated, contributing to project delays.
2. Fatal Accident: A 2019 incident during a test flight raised safety concerns, prompting investigations and further extending the project timeline.
3. COVID-19 Pandemic: The global pandemic disrupted supply chains and impeded work progress, adding an additional layer of complexity.
4. Integration Issues: The IAF expressed concerns about specific system integrations in the final operational configuration (FOC) variant, requiring meticulous attention.
Nearing Completion
Despite these challenges, the Mirage 2000 upgrade program is nearing completion. Approximately 90% of the Mirage 2000 fleet has undergone upgrades, with the remaining aircraft in the final stages of modification. The delivery of the last upgraded jet is anticipated by the close of 2024.
Technological Advancements
Upon completion, the upgraded Mirage 2000s will provide the IAF with a more capable and technologically advanced fighter jet fleet. The modernized avionics, radars, and communication systems will significantly enhance situational awareness, targeting accuracy, and overall combat effectiveness.
In summary, the imminent delivery of the final upgraded Mirage-2000 jet signifies a significant achievement for the Indian Air Force, reinforcing its commitment to modernizing and bolstering its combat air power despite the challenges encountered during this extensive upgrade initiative.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced or no information from this article should be used without written permission of theigmp.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copyright strikes, if we find same informations or the entire article without our permission, we will take necessary action.
