Government-to-government negotiations between Brazil and France over the sale of surplus French air force Dassault Mirage 2000B/C fighters are close to conclusion, as Brazil looks to remedy a looming air defence shortfall. The Brazilian air force needs to acquire the aircraft to cover the retirement this year of its remaining 12 Mirage IIIEBR/DBR fighters, just five of which are airworthy at any one time. The aircraft will also provide an interim solution after the cancellation of the F-X BR future fighter contest. Worth an estimated $55 million, the deal with France will cover the delivery of 14 single-seat Mirage 2000Cs and two twin-seat Mirage 2000Bs. An agreement is anticipated during President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's visit to France in July.
Source: Flight International
