The Indian Air Force (IAF) is not upgrading its Mirage-2000 fleet, known as ‘Vajra,’ to the same extent as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, primarily due to cost constraints and Dassault Aviation’s focus on newer platforms like the Rafale. As the Mirage-2000, operational since 1985, relies on older weaponry, its operational relevance is diminishing compared to the Su-30MKI, which benefits from modern indigenous missiles and advanced systems. This strategic shift prioritizes the IAF’s larger fleets and upcoming aircraft, aligning with India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, reflecting a deliberate choice to enhance combat readiness with contemporary technologies over upgrading older platforms.