TheDassault Mirage 2000 is a French multirole, single-engine,delta wing,fourth-generation jet fighter manufactured byDassault Aviation. It was designed in the late 1970s as a lightweight fighter to replace theMirage III for theFrench Air Force (Armée de l'air). The Mirage 2000 evolved into a multirole aircraft with several variants developed, with sales to a number of nations. It was later developed into theMirage 2000N and 2000D strike variants, the improvedMirage 2000-5, and several export variants. Over 600 aircraft were built and it has been in service with nine nations.
The origins of the Mirage 2000 could be traced back to 1965, when France and Britain agreed to develop the "Anglo-French Variable Geometry" (AFVG)swing-wing aircraft. Two years later, France withdrew from the project on grounds of costs, after which Britain would collaborate with West Germany and Italy to ultimately produce thePanavia Tornado. Dassault instead focused on its own variable-geometry aircraft, theDassault Mirage G experimental prototype. The design was expected to materialise in the Mirage G8, which would serve as the replacement for the popular Mirage III in French Air Force service.[3]
The Mirage 2000 started out as a secondary project tentatively named "Delta 1000" in 1972. Dassault was devoting considerable attention to the Mirage G8A, a fixed-geometry derivative of the Mirage G8 that served as the competitor to the Panavia Tornado. The Mirage G8, which was envisioned as the "Avion de Combat Futur" (ACF or Future Combat Aircraft) of the French Air Force (Armee de l'Air,AdA), did not align with the service's conception of its future aircraft. TheAdA wanted a Mach 3 fighter, not an interdictor aircraft incapable of dogfighting that was the Mirage G8. As such, Dassault redesigned the Mirage G8 into the two-engine Super Mirage G8A that would prove to be ambitious and expensive, being two and a half times the price of theMirage F1 and over-engineered, especially compared to theGeneral Dynamics F-16 that had just won orders from a number of European countries. Consequently, during a meeting of the National Defence Council on 18 December 1975, the Super Mirage was cancelled.[4][5]
The ACF was a strike aircraft first and an interceptor second, while the Delta 2000 was the reverse, but the single-engine Delta 2000 was much more affordable. At the same National Defence Council meeting, a redesignated Mirage 2000 was offered to theAdA, and three prototypes were ordered. TheAdA in March 1976 issued a set of official requirements whose parameters matched those of Dassault's performance estimates of the new fighter. The aircraft's primary role was interception with a secondary ground-attack capability; theAdA had a commitment for 200 aircraft. The first aircraft was to be delivered in 1982.[5][3][6] This was a return to the first-generation Mirages, but with several important innovations that tried to solve their shortcomings.
The production of the Mirage 2000 involved three construction sites, two located in Bordeaux that specialised in different components. The wings were built atMartignas, and the fuselages were fabricated atArgenteuil (NW of Paris), with final assembly taking place atBordeaux–Mérignac Airport. The first prototype, Mirage 2000 No. 01, though, was handbuilt atSaint-Cloud, before being moved to Dassault'sIstres facility for assembly. At the hands of Jean Coureau, No. 01 made its first flight on 10 March 1978, a mere 27 months after the programme go-ahead. During the 65-minute flight, Coureau took the aircraft to Mach 1.02 without afterburner, before climbing to more than 12,000 m and accelerating the aircraft to Mach 1.3.[7][2][8] By the end of May, the aircraft had surpassed Mach 2 and an indicated airspeed of 1,200 kilometres per hour (650 kn). On the other end of the speed spectrum, the Mirage 2000 proved to be capable of low-speed flight, as demonstrated at theFarnborough Airshow in September 1978, during which Dassault pilot Guy Mitaux-Maurourd raised the aircraft's nose to 25° angle of attack (AoA) as the aircraft slowed to 190 km/h (100 kn). Later tests showed that the aircraft could attain 30° AoA while carrying fuel tanks and weapons.[9]
The fourth prototype of the Mirage 2000 on display at theFarnborough Airshow
The second prototype, No. 02, made its 50-minute first flight in September 1978 at the controls of Maurourd. The aircraft was to test some of the avionics systems and the carriage of weapons. Due to a flameout while on a landing approach, the aircraft was lost in May 1984. No. 03 made its first flight in April 1979; equipped with a complete weapons system, it was used for radar and weapons trials. After 400 hours of flight, they were sent toCentre d'Essais en Vol, flight tests centre. Although three prototypes were ordered in December 1975, Dassault constructed an additional fourth single-seat demonstrator for its own purposes, which embodied lessons on the earlier aircraft, namely the reduction in fin height and an increased fin sweep, redesigned air inlets, and an FBW system. The only dual-seat Mirage 2000B of the test programme first flew on 11 October 1980.[10][11]
The first production Mirage 2000C (C forchasseur, "fighter") flew on 20 November 1982.[5] Deliveries to theAdA began in 1983. The first 37 Mirage 2000Cs delivered were fitted with the Thomson-CSF Radar Doppler Multifunction (RDM), and were powered by the SNECMA M53-5 turbofan engine. The 38th Mirage 2000C had an upgraded SNECMA M53-P2 turbofan engine. The Radar Doppler à Impulsion (RDI) built by Thales for the Mirage 2000C entered service in 1987. It has a much improved range of about 150 km, and is linked to Matra Super 530D missiles, which are much improved compared to the older Super 530F.Look-down/shoot-down capabilities are much improved, as well, but this radar is not usually used for air-to-surface roles.
The Mirage 2000N is a dedicatednuclear-strike variant, which was intended to carry theAir-Sol Moyenne Portée (ASMP) nuclear standoff missile. Flight tests of the first of two prototypes, Mirage 2000N 01 (eighth Mirage 2000) began on 3 February 1983. During the 65-minute flight, the aircraft reached a speed of Mach 1.5.[12] The variant entered operational service in 1988, initially operating from Luxeuil Air Base with the 4e Escadre de Chasse.[13] Closely derived from the Mirage 2000N is a dedicated conventional attack variant designated Mirage 2000D. Initial flight of the Mirage 2000D prototype, a modified Mirage 2000N prototype, was on 19 February 1991. The first flight of a production aircraft occurred 31 March 1993, and service introduction followed in April 1995. Seventy-five Mirage 2000Ns and eighty-six Mirage 2000Ds were manufactured, respectively.
By the late 1980s, the Mirage 2000 was beginning to age compared with the latest models of F-16 fighters. In particular, attention was drawn to the Mirage 2000's inability to engage multiple targets simultaneously, and the small load of air-to-air missiles it could carry. Consequently, Dassault in April 1989 announced that with the cooperation of Thomson-CSF, it would be working on a privately funded update of the Mirage 2000C, which was to be named the Mirage 2000-5.[14][15] A two-seat Mirage 2000B prototype was extensively modified as the first Mirage 2000-5 prototype, and it first flew on 24 October 1990. A Mirage 2000C prototype was also reworked to a similar standard, making its initial flight on 27 April 1991. The first frontline aircraft variant to have been designed specifically in response to the export market, Taiwan was the first country to order the type in 1992, followed by Qatar in 1994. The type was first delivered in 1996 and entered service in 1997.[16]
Domestically, Dassault needed an order from theAdA to help promote foreign sales, and in 1993, theAdA decided to upgrade 37 of their existing Mirage 2000s to the 2000-5 specification as a stopgap before the arrival of the Rafale inAdA service. The upgraded aircraft were redesignated Mirage 2000-5F, and became operational in 2000. They retained the old countermeasures system with theServal/Sabre/Spirale units and did not receive the ICMS 2 system. A two-seat version was developed, as well, whose rear seat has a heads-up display, but not an associated head-level display, and lacks a built-in cannon, although cannon pods can be carried.[citation needed]
At the urging of the United Arab Emirates, Dassault worked on a further modification of the Mirage 2000-5. Initially dubbed Mirage 2000-9, this variant had the upgrade of the radar and the associated avionics, the change of weapons configuration, and the extension of range.
The last Mirage 2000 was delivered on 23 November 2007 to theHellenic Air Force;[17] afterwards, the production line was shut down.
Dassault Mirage 2000Cs showing its delta-wing layout
The Mirage 2000 is a supersonic combat aircraft of metal construction that shares the general delta-wing layout with the Mirage III, yet incorporates avionics advances that help overcome the latter's aerodynamic limitations. The aircraft's low-set, thin wing has a leading-edge sweep back of 58° and a trailing-edge forward sweep of 3.5°. The flight surfaces on the wings are composed of fourelevons and fourleading edge slats. A feature of the delta wing is that it offers a comparatively large wing area for a particular design, thereby reducing the wing loading. The wing on a Mirage 2000 has an area of 41 m2, giving it a wing loading of some 77 lb/sq ft at a takeoff weight of 33,000 lb, making it much more manoeuvrable than the F-15 and the similarly sized F-16, which has a wing loading of 110 lb/sq ft. At normal combat load, however, the wing loading reduces to 45 lb/sq ft. One related advantage of the delta-wing design, and especially the Mirage 2000's blending of the wing root and engine, is that it could accommodate more fuel, as the aircraft's internal fuel tanks can carry over 900 gallons of fuel, up more than 200 gallons over the Mirage III. The aircraft's fuselage is of traditional monocoque construction made of almost entirely of metal. The fuselage has been area-ruled to maintain a constant cross-sectional area along with the delta wing to minimise drag.[18]
French Air Force Dassault Mirage 2000C with anaerial refueling probe attached
The aircraft uses retractabletricycle landing gear byMessier-Dowty, with twin nosewheels and a single wheel on each main gear. A runwaytailhook or a fairing for a brakeparachute can be fitted under the tail, which can operate in conjunction with the landing gear'scarbon brakes to shorten landing distances. A removable refueling probe can be attached in front of thecockpit, offset slightly to the right of centre.[18]
Anairbrake is fitted above and below each wing in an arrangement very similar to that of the Mirage III. A noticeably taller tailfin allows the pilot to retain control at AoAs past 25°, assisted by the smallstrakes mounted along each air intake. Some composites have been used for the fins, rudder, elevons, and various access panels, giving a weight saving of some 100 kg. The Mirage 2000 has been noted for its superb handling, especially given its delta-wing design.[18]
Dassault engineers have embedded into the design a certain degree of relaxed stability as the centre of gravity, or neutral point, is placed ahead of the centre of pressure, enhancing maneuverability. It incorporates negative stability andfly-by-wire controls with fouranalog computers. As first demonstrated at the 1978 Farnborough Airshow, such designs, as well as the use of computer-controlled dynamic controls were capable of overcoming the delta-wing shortcomings related to poor low-speed control, while retaining the advantages, such as low drag, lowradar cross section, ideal high-speed aerodynamics, and large internal volume, as well as simplicity, provided by the absence of horizontal tail surfaces.[18]
Itsaircraft flight control system is fly-by-wire, with two distinct modes of operation.[19] The first allows for unrestricted operations within its full allowed flight envelope, and is used when carrying only air-to-air weapons. The second is used when carrying fuel tanks, air-to-ground munitions, or a mix of both. This second mode functions as a g-limiter, preventing heavier munitions from damaging the pylons that they are mounted on, and preventing them from potentially being pulled off of the pylons by excessive G-force.
The Mirage 2000 is available as a single-seat or twin-seat multirole fighter. The pilot flies the aircraft by means of acentre stick and left-handthrottles, with both incorporatingHOTAS controls. The pilot sits on a SEM MB Mk10[20] zero-zeroejection seat (a license-built version of the BritishMartin-BakerMark 10).
TheSNECMA M53 afterburningturbofan was developed for the ACF, and was available for the Mirage 2000 project. It is a single-shaft engine of modular construction that is relatively light and simple compared to those of the British or American designs. The M53 consists of three low-pressure compressor stages, five high-pressure stages, and two turbine stages.[21] With the development programme consisting of 20 engines, the M53sans suffix was first bench tested in February 1970, and became airborne on a Caravelle testbed in July 1973. Dassault conducted flight tests of the M53-2 version using its Mirage F1E testbeds starting in December 1974; this version produced 84 kilonewtons (19,000 lbf) in afterburner. The Mirage 2000 itself was powered by two versions of the M53—the M53-5, which equipped initial operational aircraft, was rated at 88 kN (20,000 lbf) of thrust with afterburner. The definitive version of the engine, the M53-P2, which equipped the majority of the type, is rated at 65 kN (15,000 lbf) in dry thrust and 95 kN (21,000 lbf) in afterburner.[21][22]
French Air Force Dassault Mirage 2000C with its armaments
The Mirage 2000 is equipped with built-in twinDEFA 554 autocannon (nowGIAT 30–550 F4) 30 mm revolver-typecannons with 125 rounds each. The cannons have selectable fire rates of 1,200 or 1,800rounds per minute.
The Mirage 2000-5F is a major advancement over previous variants and embodies a comprehensive electronic, sensor, and cockpit upgrade to expand its combat ability, while reducing pilot workload. The centrepiece of the Mirage 2000-5F overhaul is the Thomson-CSF RDY (radar Doppler multitarget) with look down/shoot down capability. The multifunction radar is capable of air-to-ground, air-to-air, and air-to-sea operations. In the air-to-ground mode, the RDY has mainly ground mapping and navigation functions, with no real ground attack modes. Capable of automatically locking onto multiple targets at first contact (creating a "shoot list), the radar can detect flying targets travelling as low as 60 m (200 ft). The introduction of the radar allows the aircraft to use the MICA missile, up to six of which could be fired and supported simultaneously. Despite the increase in offensive capability, pilot workload is compensated for by the introduction of a multidisplay glass cockpit, based on the development of the Rafale. The aircraft has the ICMS Mk2 countermeasures suit, which contains three radar detectors and an infrared sensor that are linked to active jammers and chaff/flare dispensers.[23][24][25][26]
Improvements over the Mirage 2000C included the multimode RDY, which allows detection of up to 24 targets and the ability to simultaneously track eight threats while guiding four MICA missiles to different targets. Updates to defensive systems included the ICMS Mk2 countermeasures suite. ICMS Mk2 incorporates a receiver and associated signal processing system in the nose for detecting hostile missile-command data links, and can be interfaced to a new programmable mission-planning and postmission analysis ground system. Avionics were also updated, using a newnight vision-compatibleglass cockpit layout borrowed from theDassault Rafale, a dual-linked wide-anglehead-up display, andHOTAS controls. The Mirage 2000-5F can also carry the oversizeddrop tanks developed for the Mirage 2000N, greatly extending its range.
Mirage 2000-9 (Mirage 2000-5Mk2)
Due to the UAEs request for additional Mirage capabilities, new enhancements to offensive systems included aforward-looking infrared (FLIR) targeting pod, integration of a variety of Air To Ground munitions and a newermore stealthy ThalesRDY-2 all-weathersynthetic aperture radar withmoving target indicator capability, which also grants the aircraft SAR mapping capabilities. The avionics were further updated with higher resolution color displays, and the addition of the modular data-processing unit designed for the Rafale. A new Thales Totem 3000inertial navigation system withring laser gyroscope and GPS capability were added, providing much greater accuracy, higher reliability, and shorter alignment time than the older ULISS 52 navigation system it replaced. Other upgrades included the addition of an onboard oxygen generation system for the pilot and an ICMS Mk3 digital countermeasures suite for the HAF 2000-5Mk2s.[citation needed]
The first aircraft entered service in July 1984.[27] The first operational squadron was formed during the same year, the 50th anniversary of the French Air Force. About 124 Mirage 2000Cs were obtained by theAdA.
French Mirage 2000Ds later served with theInternational Security Assistance Force during theconflict in Afghanistan in 2001–2002, operating in close conjunction with international forces and performing precision attacks withlaser-guided bombs. In the summer of 2007, after theDassault Rafale fighters had been removed from the theater of operations, three French Mirage 2000s were deployed to Afghanistan in support of NATO troops.[29]
The Mirage 2000 is being replaced in French service by the Dassault Rafale, which became operational with the French Air Force in June 2006.
French Mirage 2000s were committed to enforcing the no-fly zone in Libya as part ofOpération Harmattan in 2011.[30]
On 9 March 2024, two French Mirage 2000-5Fs participated in the downing of twoHouthi drones over the Red Sea in support ofOperation Prosperity Guardian marking the first French aerial victories sinceWorld War II.[33] On 6 June 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron announced France would provide Mirage 2000 jets and training to Ukraine to counter increased Russian aggression in Kharkiv region.[34]
The Indian government became aware of a high-performance prototype of the Mirage 2000 in the flight-testing phase while evaluating theMirage F1 earlier.[35][36] In 1980, Pakistan negotiated for the purchase of US-madeF-16A/B fighters, with the agreement signed in 1981.[36][37] In response, theIndian Air Force (IAF) wanted to accelerate the procurement of an advanced combat aircraft, which would be an upgrade to its existing fleet.[38] Following trials of the Mirage 2000 by Indian test pilots in December 1980,[36] theIndian government approached France for the purchase of 150 such aircraft in 1981.[39] While the Soviet Union offered theMiG-25 aircraft to India, the capability of the Mirage 2000 and the willingness of France to accelerate the delivery schedule led India to favour of the French aircraft.[40] After protracted negotiations, India signed an agreement on 13 April 1982 for the procurement of 36 single-seat Mirage 2000Hs and four twin-seat Mirage 2000THs with an option for further licensed production of 110 aircraft in India.[41][42][43] While the agreement with France included the possibility of future manufacturing the aircraft in India,[40] cost constraints and the Soviet offer of license production ofMiG-27 in India meant that the Mirage 2000 aircraft was not produced in India.[36]
While India had the option to procure additional Mirage 2000s, the Indian government later opted to procure the single-seaterMiG-29 despite the willingness of the IAF to continue with the Mirage 2000s.[44] The first seven Mirage 2000 aircraft were delivered to India on 29 June 1985 and the IAF became the first foreign user of the type. They were renamed asVajra (thunderbolt inSanskrit), and were inducted to theNo. 7 Squadron of the IAF.[45][46][47] The initial batch of the aircraft were equipped withSnecma M53-5 engines, as India did not want to wait for the introduction of the upgradedSnecma M53-P2 engines, and these were named as "Mirage 2000H5" and "Mirage 2000TH5" respectively. The later single and two-seater aircraft powered by the M53-5P2, were named as "Mirage 2000H" and "Mirage 2000TH" respectively. Subsequently, the earlier aircraft were also equipped with the upgraded engines.[47] TheNo. 1 Squadron (the Tigers) was formally designated a Mirage 2000 unit in January 1986, and received the second batch of the aircraft.[48] Within 12 months of the first delivery, the IAF had received the first batch of 40 aircraft.[46] The Indian government signed a follow-on order for nine aircraft in 1986. The order consisting of six Mirage 2000H single-seaters and three Mirage 2000TH two-seaters were delivered from 1987 to 1988.[47]
The Indian Mirage fleet encountered operational difficulties in the late 1990s due to maintenance issues. In 1995, the Indian government'scomptroller and auditor general flagged delays in the construction of overhaul facilities and a shortage of spare parts, which had led to the fleet being unable to meet its required flying hours.[54] India purchasedATLIS II targeting pods andBombe Guidée Laser Arcole 1,000 kglaser-guided bombs to equip the Mirage aircraft.[47][55][56] The IAF planned to procure cheaper US madePaveway II laser-guided bombs to augment the arsenal. However, due to an incorrect order, and the subsequent US-led embargo on India as a consequence of thePokhran-II nuclear tests, Indian was unable to procure the necessary replacement parts, and had to manufacture them indigenously.[57]
When theKargil War broke out in May 1999, the IAF was tasked with supporting the ground troops on 25 May.[58] The Mirage aircraft were modified in a short time frame to drop laser-guided bombs as well as conventionalunguided bombs.[59] Under thecode name ofOperation Safed Sagar ("White sea" in Sanskrit),[60] the Mirage 2000 flew its first sortie on 30 May.[57] From May to July 1999, the two Mirage squadrons flew 514 sorties with only three drop outs.[57][61] The No. 1 Squadron flew 274 air defence and strike escort missions, and the No. 7 Squadron conducted 240 strike missions during which it dropped 55,000 kg (121,000 lb) of ordnance.[46] The aircraft used the Paveway bombs on eight occasions, mainly for the destruction of enemy command bunkers.[57] This aircraft performed well during the whole conflict in the high altitudes of the Himalayas, and helped India establish anair superiority during the two-month war.[62][63] During the subsequentIndia–Pakistan standoff in 2001-02, the Mirage 2000s were used to target Pakistani bunkers using precision-guided bombs.[55]
In 2004, the Indian government approved the purchase of 10 additional Mirage 2000Hs, featuring improved avionics including an upgraded RDM 7 radar.[47][64] Considering the performance of the Mirage 2000s, the Mirage 2000-5 became a contender for theIndian MRCA competition for the order of 126multi-role combat aircraft. However, Dassault later replaced the Mirage 2000 with the newerRafale for the competition due to the impending closure of the Mirage 2000 production line.[65]
In July 2011, India approved a $2.2 billion upgrade package for its existing fleet of 51 Mirage 2000s, to extend its lifetime for another 20 to 25 years[47][66][67] The fleet was to be upgraded to the Mirage 2000-5 Mk variant, with provisions for anight vision-capableglass cockpit, upgraded navigation andIdentification Friend or Foe systems, an advanced multimode multilayered radar, and an integrated electronic warfare suite, among other updates. Two of the aircraft was to be upgraded in France, while the remaining 49 was planned to be upgraded byHindustan Aeronautics Limited in India with technical assistance from Dassault.[66] Additionally, India placed an order forMICA missiles to be used with the upgraded fleet.[68] The first two upgraded aircraft were returned to the IAF in March 2015, with the single seat version designated asMirage 2000I and the twin-seat version as Mirage 2000TI.[69][70][71]
While the Mirage upgrade program were initially scheduled for completion before 2021, it stretched out to the mid-2020s.[83][84] In September 2021, India obtained 24 phased-out Mirage 2000s from France, primarily for spares.[85] Bought at a cost of €1 million per plane, 13 aircraft were to be delivered in flyaway condition with intact engines andairframes while the remaining 11 jets were planned to be scavenged for parts.[86] In May 2025, Mirage 2000 fighters were used by the IAF in theconflict with Pakistan to target PAF airbases using precision-guided munitions. TheWashington Post reported that one Mirage 2000 may have been hit during the clash and crashed,[87] andFrench Air Force chief Jerome Bellanger stated that he had seen evidence three Indian aircraft including a Mirage 2000 being downed in the conflict.[88] While India acknowledged aircraft losses, it did not confirm the details, and France claimed that misinformation has been spread deliberately to undermine the sales of the French aircraft.[89][90]
In December 1982, Peru placed an $800 million order for 14 single-seat Mirage 2000Ps and two two-seat Mirage 2000DP trainers, with an option for eight and two more aircraft, respectively. Although the contract was signed in 1985, the Peruvian government,due to the country's financial issues, renegotiated the number of aircraft to be reduced to 10 single-seaters and two two-seaters. Handover of the first aircraft occurred in June 1985, although the first deliveries to Peru were not made until December 1986, after the initial training of pilots in France had been completed.[91][92][93]
ThePeruvian Air Force ordered a set of munitions similar to that ordered by Egypt, along with ATLIS II targeting pods. The Peruvian Mirages flewcombat air patrol missions in 1995 during theCenepa War.[94]
Peru's Mirage 2000s underwent an inspection and partial electronic modernisation programme following a $140 million deal in 2009 that involved Dassault, Snecma, and Thales.[95][96] The aircraft are expected to be retired by 2025.[97]
In May 1983, theUnited Arab Emirates (UAE) placed an order for 36 Mirage 2000 aircraft. The order consisted of 22 single-seat Mirage 2000AED, eight unique single-seat reconnaissance variants designated Mirage 2000RAD, and six Mirage 2000DAD trainers, which collectively are known as SAD-8 (Standard Abu Dhabi). The order specified an Italian-made defensive avionics suite that delayed delivery of the first of these aircraft until 1989.[citation needed]
In November 1998, the UAE signed a $3.2 billion contract that consisted of an order for 30 Mirage 2000-9s, as well as the deal to upgrade 33 of the surviving SAD-8 aircraft up the new standard. The contract was later amended so it would encompass 32 new-built aircraft—20 single-seater Mirage 2000-9s and 12 two-seater 2000-9Ds—and 30 upgrade kits for original aircraft. The aircraft were equipped with a classifiedcountermeasures system designated IMEWS. Although deliveries were scheduled for 2001, the first aircraft arrived in the spring of 2003.[98][99]
The UAE's Mirage 2000-9s are equipped for the strike mission, with the Shehab laser targeting pod (a variant of theDamocles) and the Nahar navigation pod, complementing the air-to-ground modes of the RDY-2 radar. They are also equipped with a classified countermeasures system designated IMEWS, which is comparable to the ICMS 3. Emirati Mirage 2000s are armed with weapons such as thePGM 500 guided bomb and the "Black Shaheen"cruise missile, which is basically a variant of theMBDA Apache cruise missile.[100] All 30 survivors of this first batch have been extensively refurbished and upgraded, bringing them to the same standard as the Mirage 2000-9.[citation needed]
UAE Mirage 2000s flew in theGulf War of 1991, but had little action. Six Mirage 2000s were to participate in the enforcement of the no-fly zone over Libya.[101]
As part of theSaudi Arabian-led intervention in Yemen on 14 March 2016, a UAE Mirage 2000-9D crashed in the southern Yemeni city of Aden during a combat operation in the early morning hours, killing its two pilots. The Arab coalition claims the Mirage crashed due to a technical fault.[102] Other sources reported that the Mirage 2000-9D was shot down byYemeni Al-Qaeda militants using aStrela-2MANPADS while flying low.[103]
In July 1985, Greece signed a contract for 40 Mirage 2000s: 36 single-seat aircraft and 4 two-seat trainers. The order came as part of a larger defence acquisition programme that saw the country, for political reasons, proceed with an order for the F-16.[clarification needed] The $1.38 billion Mirage contract also consisted of weapons and equipment, as well as industrial offsets that permitted HAI to produce the M53-P2 engines. The first aircraft were delivered in June 1988 and the last, by the end of 1989. They featured an "ICMS Mk. 1" defensive countermeasures suite (DCS), an updated version of the standard Mirage 2000C DCS, characterised by two small antennas near the top of the tailfin. Initially armed with R.550 Matra Magic-2 missiles. During the "Talos" modernisation project of the 1990s, carried out byHellenic Aerospace Industry and supervised by Dassault and Thompson-CSF, the aircraft received: a vastly improved RDM-3 radar set; the ICMS 1 DCS; the ability to carry the Super-530D medium-range missile and theAM39 Exocet Block II anti-ship missile. After "Talos", the aircraft were renamed Mirage-2000EGM/BGM.[citation needed]
In August 2000, Greece placed a $1.1 billion order for a batch of 15 new Mirage 2000-5 Mk. 2 fighters, and had 10 existing Mirage 2000EGMs upgraded to Mirage 2000-5 Mk. 2 standard. The upgrade meant the addition of the RDY-2 radar and ICMS-3 DCS, and the ability to deploy SCALP cruise missiles and both versions of the MICA instead, an order for which was placed.[108][109] All Greek machines (Mk 2s and EGMs) feature the TOTEM-3000 INS of the Mk2 instead of the Uliss-52 and have hose-and-drogueaerial refueling capability.[citation needed]
On 8 October 1996, seven months after the escalation of the dispute with Turkey over theImia/Kardak islands, a Turkish F-16D jet crashed into theAegean Sea after interception by Greek Mirages.[110] The Turkish pilot died, while the co-pilot ejected and was rescued by Greek forces.[111] In August 2012, afterthe downing of a RF-4E on the Syrian coast, Turkish Defence Ministerİsmet Yılmaz claimed that the Turkish F-16D was shot down in 1996 by a Greek Mirage 2000 with anR.550 Magic II nearChios island.[112] Greece denies that the F-16 was shot down.[citation needed] BothMirage 2000 pilots reported that theF-16 caught fire and that they saw oneparachute.[113]
On 12 April 2018, a Greek Mirage 2000-5, part of a two-ship formation, crashed into the Aegean Sea north of the Skyros air base after being scrambled to intercept two Turkish F-16s that were in thedisputed airspace. When the Mirage pair arrived in the area, the Turkish jets had already left. The Greek pilot died in the crash, which was attributed to Saharan dust in the air; both Mirage pilots were flying low in poor visibility.[114][115]
In response to mainland China's purchase of the Su-27, the Republic of China (Taiwan) began talks with the US and France about the possible purchase of new fighters. While the US opposed Taiwan's acquisition of the Mirage 2000 and instead pressured it to procure the F-16, theRepublic of China Air Force became the first customer for the Mirage 2000-5 in November 1992. The order for 48 single-seat Mirage 2000-5EIs and 12 Mirage 2000-5DI trainers was condemned by China. The order also included 480 Magic short-range air-to-air missiles, 960 MICA intermediate-range air-to-air missiles, auxiliary fuel tanks, ground support equipment, and monitoring equipment; total costs amounted to US$4.9 billion, of which $2.6 billion was for the aircraft.[116] The MICA missile provides the Mirage with a degree ofBVR capability needed for its role as frontline interceptor. In addition, a set ofASTAC electronic intelligence (ELINT) pods was ordered.[citation needed] A number of centerline twin gun pods withDEFA 554 cannons were also acquired and fitted on the two-seaters, as they do not have an internal gun armament.
Taiwanese Mirage 2000s were delivered from May 1997 to November 1998, and are based at Hsinchu AB.[citation needed] The RoCAF's Mirages have suffered from low operational readiness and high maintenance costs; the harsh environment and high operational tempo have caused higher than expected wear and tear. After cracks were detected in the blades of the aircraft's engines in 2009, Dassault worked with Taiwanese authorities to successfully rectify the issue and provided compensation for the engine damage. By the following year, normal training hours of 15 per month had resumed and the fleet's operational readiness had been restored, after having reportedly dropped to 6 hours per month because of the engine troubles.[117][118] There were also considerations of mothballing the entire Mirage fleet because of its high maintenance costs.[119] Although the aircraft's maintenance costs more than that of theAIDC F-CK-1 Ching-kuo and theLockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon, the fleet was reportedly still being flown.[citation needed] Yet plans to upgrade the fleet have not been executed, since the upgrade is cost prohibitive.[120]
A Qatar Emiri Air Force Dassault Mirage 2000-5 participating in Odyssey Dawn
In 1994, Qatar became the second export customer for the Mirage 2000-5 as it ordered twelve aircraft to replace its Mirage F1EDAs. Designated Mirage 2000-5DAs, the aircraft ordered consisted of nine single-seaters (5EDA) and three two-seaters (5DDA), and the first delivery was made in September 1997. Qatar also purchased the MICA missile and the Apache stand-off cruise missile.[121][122] The aircraft would be used sparingly, and by the mid-2000s, under pressure from the US to dispose of the aircraft and with most of the aircraft's operational life still intact, Qatar offered to sell the aircraft to Pakistan and later India. Such a deal would not materialise.[123]
In March 2011, Mirage 2000s were deployed to an airbase on the Greek island ofCrete as part of Qatar's commitment to assist in the NATO-enforced no-fly zone over Libya. The aircraft would soon jointly enforce the no-fly zone along with French Mirage 2000-5 aircraft.
Dassault participated in a competition to replace theBrazilian Air Force's agingMirage IIIEBR/DBRs with a Brazilian-specific version of the Mirage 2000-9 that would have been developed in collaboration with Embraer designated Mirage 2000BR. However, due to Brazilian fiscal problems, the competition dragged on for years until it was suspended in February 2005. Instead, Brazil in July 2005 purchased 12 ex-French Air Force Mirage 2000 aircraft (ten "C" and two "B" versions), designated F-2000, for $72 million.[124] Deliveries began in September 2006 and concluded on 27 August 2008 with the delivery of the last 2 aircraft.[125] According to Journal of Electronic Defense, the figure was $200 million, which consisted of a significant number of Magic 2 air-to-air missiles, and theAdA would provide full conversion training in France and full logistical support. The ten single-seat fighters and two twin-seat combat-trainers were drawn from operational squadrons Escadron de Chasse 1/5 and 2/5, based at Orange AB, respectively. The first delivery was made September 2006 to 1º Grupo de Defesa Aérea (1º GDA – 1st Air Defence Group) based at Annapolis.[126] They were primarily used in the air-defence role and were equipped with MatraSuper 530D andMatra Magic 2.[127] Brazil officially retired its fleet in December 2013,[128][129] just before the maintenance contract with Dassault concluded.[130]
Following theRussian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Ukraine had expressed interest in the Mirage 2000, and it was reported in March 2023 that France has been training Ukrainian pilots on this aircraft in anticipation that some may be sent to Ukraine.[131][132] French President Emmanuel Macron announced during a televised interview on 6 June 2024 that an unspecified number of Mirage 2000-5s are to be delivered to Ukraine.[133] The French defense minister announced on 6 February 2025 that the first Mirage 2000 had been delivered to Ukraine.[134] Ukrainian Mirage 2000s are equipped with both theMatra Magic andMICA air-air missiles.[135]
On 7 March 2025, Mirages were deployed alongside F-16s to intercept Russian cruise missiles and drones launched overnight. According to theUkrainian Air Force, 34 missiles and 100 drones were intercepted by fighter jets,surface-to-air missile systems, jammers, and mobile fire groups. The Mirage 2000 managed to score a major victory as it was its first air-to-air victory, defeating aKh-101cruise missile.[136][137]
On the evening of 22 July 2025, aUkrainian Air Force Dassault Mirage 2000 crashed during a combat mission overVolyn Oblast, Ukraine, after the pilot reported a technical malfunction. The pilot ejected safely, and the aircraft impacted ruralmoorland, sinking into the muddy ground and forming a waterlogged crater. Acombat search and rescue (CSAR) team recovered the pilot, whose condition was assessed as stable. No injuries or fatalities were reported as a result of the accident. The UkrainianState Bureau of Investigation secured the crash site and initiated an investigation into the cause of the accident.[138]
By the mid-1980s, Indonesia was considering the Mirage 2000,F-16 Fighting Falcon, andPanavia Tornado for its new fighter program.[139] In June 1984, fourIndonesian Air Force pilots and several ground crew were sent to southern France to examine and test flew the Mirage 2000B prototype. The F-16 won the program in 1986.[140][141]
In 2022, Indonesia was considering in acquiring used Mirage 2000s for the Indonesian Air Force. 12 Mirage 2000-5s (9 Mirage 2000-5EDA fighters and 3 Mirage 2000-5DDA trainers) from Qatar is reportedly chosen by Indonesia.[142] In November 2022, the Ministry of Finance of Indonesia approved foreign loans to fund several Indonesian Air Force procurement programs, including the ex-Qatari Mirage 2000s proposal.[143] In June 2023, an Indonesian Ministry of Defense official confirmed a US$734.5 million contract was signed in January 2023 with Czech company Excalibur International, acting as the provider for the aircraft, to procure Qatar's fleet of Mirage 2000 aircraft.[144][145] The purchase was criticized as being a stop-gap measure, especially when Indonesia has 42Dassault Rafales on order.[146] In January 2024, Indonesia postponed the acquisition of Mirage 2000 due to limited fiscal capacity.[147][148] On 9 February 2024, spokesperson for the Minister of Defense confirmed the plan to acquire Mirages have been cancelled.[149]
Upgrades include the addition of theNon-Cooperative Target Recognition (NCTR) mode to the RDI Radar to allow identification of airborne targets not responding onidentification friend or foe (IFF), and the ability to carry air-to-ground stores such as rocket pods,iron bombs andcluster bombs. Some variants, especially those equipped with the RDM radar (mainly used in export models) have the capability to use theExocet anti-ship missile.
The Mirage 2000B is a two-seat operational conversiontrainer variant which first flew on 11 October 1980. The French Air Force acquired 30 Mirage 2000Bs, and all threeAdA fighter wings each obtained several of them for conversion training.
TheMirage 2000D is a dedicated conventional attack variant developed from the Mirage 2000N.
Mirage 2000D RMV
Mirage 2000D Rénovation Mi-Vie (Mid-Life Upgrade).[151] It updates theavionics, integrates a CC422gun pod, theGBU-48, and theGBU-50, along with allowing use ofMICA missiles in the place ofMagic missiles.[152]
First major upgrade over the Mirage 2000C, it was designed only for France's defense needs (Thus the "F" designation). It entered limited service in 1997 with the upgraded RDY radar system. This addition allowed the aircraft to be equipped withMICA EM and IR long range missiles. The cockpit layout differs vastly from the 2000C, replacing most old-school dials with 2 side multi-function displays (VTLs, Visualisation Tête Latérales), 1 Head-Down Display (VTB, Visualisation Tête Basse) and 1 Head-Level Display (VTM, Visualisation Tête Moyenne). The 2000-5F specifically is the French variant used for Air to air duties only. It does not retain any Air to ground capability from the 2000C, nor is it equipped to carry any ground attack weapon. In November 2024, France confirmed it will deliver six Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets to Ukraine in early 2025, along with a full support package. Ukraine has requested 12 aircraft to meet its immediate needs, Defence Minister Lecornu expanded on this stating that the jets will be upgraded with air-to-ground capabilities and enhanced electronic warfare systems at Cazaux Air Base in Gironde.[153] This might mean the integration of the SCALP-EG missile, already in Ukrainian service.
The -5F production lots are divided as follows:
Mirage 2000-5F-SF1
The initial conversion standard for the French Air Force differs slightly from the Mirage 2000-5 baseline offered for export, most notably by omitting the two superheterodyne antennas on the tail fin retaining only the LAM (Liaison Missile-Avion) datalink antenna below the forward-facing jammer. The French standard self-protection suit comprising Serval, Sabre, and Spirale is retained with minor modifications. Armament is tailored for the air defense role, typically comprising four MICA missiles mounted on the fuselage pylons and twoR.550 Magic II missiles on the outer stations. Once available, the IR-guided version of the MICA will replace the Magic missiles. Mounting weapons on the wing root pylons frees the inboard wing stations for two large RPL 541/542 fuel tanks. Combined with the standard RPL 522 centerline tank, this configuration increases endurance in the air defense role from 1.5 to 3 hours. The first squadron was scheduled to be declared operational in April 1999.
Mirage 2000-5F-SF2
This was a planned French Air Force upgrade program for its Mirage 2000-5F fleet, including the integration of GPS, a JTIDS-type data link, compatibility with helmet-mounted sights, and a yet unspecified long-range identification system, likely either optical or radar-based.
The Mirage 2000-9 is the export variant of Mirage 2000-5Mk2 (as it is known in Greek service). The UAE was the launch customer, ordering 32 newly-built aircraft: 20 Mirage 2000-9 single-seaters and 12 Mirage 2000-9D two-seaters. A further 30 ofAbu Dhabi's older Mirage 2000s will also be upgraded to Mirage 2000-9 standard.[154] This improved variant of the Mirage 2000-5 features the more advanced RDY-2 Radar (upgrading over the existing RDY Radar, adding synthetic aperture and beam-sharpening modes), the new multi-data processing unit (MDPU) replacing the old MC1 & MC2 Main-Computers and a new TOTEM 3000 INS using lasers (instead of the mechanical ULISS 52). Another upgrade (at least the Hellenic Air Force) M2000-5 Mk2 received is the new ICMS Mk3 Electronic Countermeasures system.[155] LCD colour displays have been upgraded, plus provision for the integration of theDamocles laser-designation pod have been made. The Hellenic Air Force did not acquire the Mirage 2000-5F variant. Instead, it opted for the -9 version (re-designated as the 2000-5 Mk2), transitioning directly from the older Mirage 2000EG equipped with the RDM radar, to the more advanced RDY-2 system.[citation needed]
"Mirage 2000E" was a blanket designation for a series of export variants of the Mirage 2000. These aircraft were fitted with the M53-P2 engine and an enhanced "RDM+" radar, and all can carry the day-onlyATLIS II laser targeting pod.
Mirage 2000EM
The Mirage 2000M is the version purchased by Egypt. Two-seat Mirage 2000BM trainers were also ordered.
Mirage 2000H, 2000TH
Designation of two-seat trainers and single-seat fighters for India. Indian Mirage 2000s have been integrated to carry the RussianR-73E Archer missile as of 2007.[156] The Mirage 2000TH is a twin-seat trainer version.[citation needed]
Mirage 2000I, 2000TI
It is an Indian specific version single/twin-seater fighter for theIndian Air Force similar to Mirage 2000-5 Mk2 equipped with Indian French and Israeli avionics and weapon packages. Its contract was signed in 2011 and first upgraded aircraft was delivered in 2015. Dassault aviation will upgrade initial few planes Mirage 2000H, 2000TH to 2000I, 2000TI later byHindustan Aeronautics Limited.[157]
Mirage 2000P
Peru placed an order for 10 single-seat Mirage 2000Ps and 2 Mirage 2000DP trainers.
Mirage 2000-5EI
Of the 60 Mirage 2000s Taiwan ordered in 1992, theRepublic of China Air Force (ROCAF) would receive 48 single-seat Mirage 2000-5EI interceptors and 12 Mirage 2000-5DI trainers. This version of Mirage 2000-5 had the mid-air refuel ability as well as its ground attack ability deleted.[citation needed]
Qatari Mirage 2000
Mirage 2000-5EDA
In 1994, Qatar ordered nine single-seat Mirage 2000-5EDAs and three Mirage 2000-5DDA trainers, with initial deliveries starting in late 1997.
Mirage 2000EAD/RAD
In 1983, theUnited Arab Emirates (UAE) purchased 22 single-seat Mirage 2000EADs, 8 unique single-seat Mirage 2000RAD reconnaissance variants, and 6 Mirage 2000DAD trainers, for a total order of 36 aircraft.
The Mirage 2000RADreconnaissance variant does not have any built-in cameras or sensors, and the aircraft can still be operated in air combat or strike roles. The reconnaissance systems are implemented in pods produced by Thales and Dassault. The UAE is the only nation operating such a specialised reconnaissance variant of the Mirage 2000 at this time.[citation needed]
Mirage 2000EG
In March 1985,Greece ordered 30 single-seat Mirage 2000EGs and 10 Mirage 2000BG two-seat trainers, equipped with RDM radars and M53P2 engines, mainly for interception/air defence roles, although the ability to use air-to-ground armaments was retained. After the Talos modernisation project, during which variant aircraft received updated sensors and avionics, as well as new anti-ship and air-to-air weapons, and were redesignated Mirage 2000EGM.[citation needed]
Mirage 2000BR
A variant of the Mirage 2000-9 for Brazil that did not materialise.
French Air and Space Force: The French Air Force operates 97 Mirage 2000s. This force comprises 65 Mirage 2000D fighters, 26 Mirage 2000-5F fighters, and 6 Mirage 2000B-S5 trainers.[166]
Procor: The private military firm operates up to 9 Mirage 2000s: 8 Mirage 2000C and 1 Mirage 2000B aircraft. These were purchased in 2019 from Brazil, and are used as aggressor aircraft.[167][168]
Hellenic Air Force: The Hellenic Air Force operates 29 Mirage 2000s, which is made up by 5 Mirage 2000EG and 24 Mirage 2000-5/Mk II fighters. Some of these are also used for training. 18 may be sold to India.[169][166]
Indian Air Force: The Indian Air Force operates 55 Mirage 2000s: 44 single seater Mirage 2000H/I fighters and 11 twin seater Mirage 2000TH/TI trainers. India upgraded its entire fleet of the Mirage aircraft between the late 2010s and early 2020s to extend its operational life for another 20 to 25 years.[166][170]
Republic of China Air Force: The Republic of China Air Force operates 53 Mirage 2000s. This force comprises 44 Mirage 2000-5EI fighters and 9 Mirage 2000-5DI trainers.[166]
Ukrainian Air Force: Mirage 2000-5 donated by France.[162] On 6 February 2025, the first ex-French Mirage 2000-5s fighters have arrived in Ukraine.[162] On 23 October 2024,Sébastien Lecornu, French Armed Forces Minister, announced that France would send the first of threeMirage 2000s to Ukraine by March 2025. These aircraft are capable of carryingSCALP EG,MICA missiles andAASM stand-off munitions. They also have updated electronic warfare.[171][172]
United Arab Emirates Air Force: The UAE Air Force operates 59 Mirage 2000s, consisting of 44 Mirage 2000-9/EAD/RAD fighters and 15 Mirage 2000-9DAD trainers.[166]
Brazilian Air Force: The Brazilian Air Force had 11 or 12 Mirage 2000s, consisting of 9 or 10 Mirage 2000C fighters and 2 Mirage 2000B trainers. These were second hand aircraft purchased from France in 2005. These aircraft were retired in December 2013, and were replaced withSaab JAS 39 Gripen aircraft. Subsequently, in 2019, Brazil sold 9 Mirage 2000s (8 Mirage 2000C and 1 Mirage 2000B) to the French company Procor, which uses them as aggressor aircraft for training.[167][168]
Qatari Emiri Air Force: The Qatari Emiri Air Force previously operated 12 Mirage 2000s, conisting of 9 Mirage 2000-5EDA fighters and 3 Mirage 2000-5DDA trainers.
^abRichardson, Doug; Ramsden, J. M.; Velupillai, David; Warwick, Graham (20–26 August 1978)."Mirage 2000: Dassault's better delta".Flight International.114 (3523). London, UK: IPC Transport Press: 637.ISSN0015-3710.Archived from the original on 22 March 2017. Retrieved22 March 2017.
^abFrawley, Gerald. "Dassault Mirage 2000".The International Directory of Military Aircraft, 2002/2003. Fishwick, Act: Aerospace Publications, 2002.ISBN1-875671-55-2.
^abcdDonald, David, ed. "Dassault Mirage 2000".The Complete Encyclopedia of World Aircraft. Barnes & Noble Books, 1997.ISBN0-7607-0592-5.
^Eden, Paul, ed. (2004). "Dassault Mirage 2000".The Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft. London, UK: Amber Books.ISBN1-904687-84-9.
^"Mirage 2000 in production".Flight International.122 (3826). London, UK: IPC Transport Press: 657. 29 August – 4 September 1982.Archived from the original on 30 November 2016. Retrieved21 March 2017.
^"Dassault Mirage 2000",World Air Power Journal, p. 57.
^Condom, Pierre (1 July 2001)."Second youth for the Mirage 2000".Interavia Business & Technology. Aerospace Media Publishing. Archived fromthe original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved24 July 2015.
^"Bosnia".French Mirage 2000. UK: Ejection history. 1995. Archived fromthe original on 15 December 2010. Retrieved31 May 2011.
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^"Conflicto del Cenepa 1995: operaciones aéreas" [Cenepa war 1995: air operations] (in Spanish). Fueza militar peru; Foro activo. Archived from the original on 12 March 2012. Retrieved29 January 2012.
For details about the negotiations, see"U.S. Puts Pressure on Taiwan To Slow French Mirage Talks".The Wall Street Journal. 15 September 1992.
For details about the order, seeDreyer, June Teufel (Fall 1999). "China's military strategy toward Taiwan".American Asian Review.17 (3). Queens, NY: Institute of Asian Studies: 19.
^"Brasil negocia tomar caças emprestados de empresa sueca",G1 (in Portuguese), BR: Globo, December 2013,archived from the original on 20 December 2013, retrieved20 December 2013 — actually, Brazil would lease the Gripen from the Swedish air force, not from Saab — Saab does not keep airplanes do lend or lease.
^"FAB se despede dos caças Mirage 2000" [FAB says farewell to the Mirage 2000 fighters],Poder aéreo (in Portuguese), BR, 20 December 2013,archived from the original on 23 December 2013, retrieved24 December 2013
"The Indian Thunderbolts".Vayu Aerospace and Defence Review:41–49. May–June 2015.
Grolleau, Henri-Pierre (2003). Donald, David (ed.). "Dassault Mirage 2000: 'Deux-Mille' comes of age".International Air Power Review.9. London: AIRtime Publishing:38–75.ISBN1-880588-56-0.
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