Initially at least, fighter-bombers were the primary means of delivery of Indian nuclear weapons. The first platform associated with such armament was the Mirage 2000. India originally acquired 36 single-seat Mirage 2000H interceptors and four two-seat Mirage 2000TH conversion trainers. They were operated by Nos 1 and 7 Squadrons as interceptors, primarily to counter the US sale of General Dynamics F-16s to Pakistan in 1980. The versatile weapons system of the Vajra, as the type is nicknamed in IAF service, has enabled multiple upgrades since the purchase, converting the type into one of the IAF’s most potent strike platforms. Nine additional Mirage 2000s were acquired between 1986 and 1994, and a third order followed in 2004, bringing the total to about 50. Since 2011, the entire fleet has been undergoing an upgrade to the Mirage 2000-5 Mk. 2 standard (locally designated Mirage 2000I/TI), making them compatible with a wide range of advanced weaponry. (Artwork by Tom Cooper)