Russia Eyes Mirage Upgrade

Russia says new engine can give the Mirage an extra kick. Above: a Chilean Elkan.

Russia is offering to upgrade the region's Mirage fighters with the RD-33 engine that powers the MiG-29, it was learned here at FIDAE 2002.

With only limited prospects for new fighter sales (in Brazil, Venezuela and Peru), Russia is exploring all other opportunities with Latin American countries.

Installation of the RD-33 engine "will bring flight and combat characteristics of the obsolete French planes up to these of the best modern combat aircraft," according to Russian arms agency Rosoboronexport, here in Hall C, Stand 22.

Mirages with RD-33 engines have already been flight-tested in South Africa and Russia