IAF's 51 Mirage 2000Ds are its prime multi-role fighter jets. Capable of flying at 2,500 kmph (Mach 2.35) these aircraft can carry a wide range of weaponry, including two 30 mm integral cannons, two Matra Super 53 D medium-range missiles, two R550 Magic close combat missiles and various ground attack munitions.

France has offered to upgrade India's 51 frontline Mirage 2000 fighters in a 'compressed delivery time-frame'.

And as part of the upgradation deal almost at the final stages of conclusion, the new Mirages would come armed with longer range air-to-air missiles to enhance the fighters capability in beyond visual range combat.

The fighters would be armed with new MICA missiles with a range of taking on targets almost 40 km away, almost double the range of present missiles on Indian fighters.

Following the upgrade, the aircraft's life will be extended for another 20-25 years besides getting an extended range of almost 800 km without refuelling and longer range detection capability to confront and take on four to five targets simultaneously both on ground and in air.