Dassault Mirage 2000-5

The Dassault Mirage 2000 can trace its origins back to 1976 when the French authorities placed a request for an interceptor in the wake of the cancellation of the complex Super Mirage G8A program, an aircraft which was similar in concept to the Tornado. Following its first flight during 1978 deliveries of the production Mirage 2000C single seat and 2000B two seat variants began in 1983. The Mirage 2000 replaced the older Mirage III in French Air Force service and was also developed into the Mirage 2000D ground attack and 2000N nuclear strike variants. The Mirage 2000 has proven to be an export success for France and was ordered by eight other nations, including India and Brazil, with the final production aircraft being delivered to Greece in 2007. The single seat 2000C has constantly been upgraded throughout its service life and the definitive Mirage 2000-5 Mk2 features a modern radar, glass cockpit and the ability to carry a wide variety of smart weaponry.

The French Air and Space Force currently operates a mixed fleet of Mirage 2000C and 2000-5F single seat aircraft alongside the two seat 2000B conversion trainer and the two seat 2000D strike variant. The Mirage 2000N nuclear strike version was retired in 2018. The Mirage 2000 has been steadily replaced in service by the Dassault Rafale and it is anticipated that the Mirage will be retired by 2030.

The French Air and Space Force are sending a Mirage 2000-5F for static display at this year’s Air Tattoo as part of our celebration of the 75th anniversary of NATO. The aircraft will be provided by Escadron de Chasse 1/2 Cigognes who are based at BA116 Luxeuil in Eastern France.

Photo Credit: NATO