Madhya Pradesh Helicopter Crash: IAF Mirage 2000 Trainer Crashes in Shivpuri, Pilots Safe

A Mirage 2000 trainer aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri district during a routine training sortie on Thursday. Fortunately, both pilots ejected safely, and no casualties were reported.

Suspected Technical Malfunction Led to Crash

According to initial reports, the crash may have been caused by a technical malfunction. The IAF has ordered a Court of Inquiry to determine the exact cause of the incident. The Mirage 2000, a multirole fighter aircraft, has been an integral part of India’s air defense and was instrumental in the 2019 Balakot airstrikes.

Concerns Over Aircraft Safety and Modernization

The accident has reignited concerns over the safety of ageing fighter jets and trainer aircraft in the IAF. While modernization efforts are underway, the recent history of crashes highlights the urgent need for upgrades.

Reports indicate that in 2017–18, the IAF recorded eight aircraft accidents, which surged to 11 in 2018–19, the highest in recent years. The number dropped to three in 2019–20 and 2020–21, but a rise to nine crashes in 2021–22 has raised alarms.

Humans Error and Technical Defects Major Causes

Of the 34 aircraft accidents reported in recent years, 19 were due to human error by aircrew, while nine were linked to technical defects. Other causes included bird strikes, foreign object damage, and adverse weather conditions.

One of the most tragic incidents was the Mi-17V5 helicopter crash in December 2021, which claimed the life of then-Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and 12 others. The investigation attributed the crash to spatial disorientation due to sudden weather changes.

Need for Enhanced Aviation Safety

With incidents like the Mirage 2000 crash, there is a growing urgency for fleet modernization and improved safety measures in the IAF. While the Air Force is actively working on upgrading its fleet, ensuring pilot safety and minimizing technical failures remains a top priority for the nation’s defense forces.