France's Mirage 2000 jets now top Russian hit list
Ukraine has received the Mirage 2000 aircraft promised by France, which have now become a priority target on Russia’s list. The Ministry of Defense in Moscow has extended the $1 million reward for each such aircraft destroyed, a bounty that was previously reserved for the F-16. In this article, we explore why the Russians are particularly concerned about these French fighters.
The first Mirage 2000 aircraft have arrived in Ukraine, where Ukrainian pilots have been training in France since 2023. These aircraft are an excellent complement to the American F-16s, given their focus on strike capabilities. They come factory-integrated with unique French guided bombs, AASM Hammer, and British-French Storm Shadow cruise missiles. Until now, Ukrainians have used these weapons on Soviet-era aircraft, specifically the MiG-29 and Su-24.
It’s no surprise, then, that the Russian Ministry of Defense, as reported by the Fighterbomber channel on Telegram, has extended the $1 million reward to include the shoot-down of a French aircraft. This offer was previously limited to F-16A/B MLU planes.
Mirage 2000 - a complement to the F-16
Ukraine has received modified 2000-5 aircraft in the D version. The Mirage 2000, developed by Dassault, is distinguished by its tailless design and distinctive delta wings. This model has gained international recognition, with countries like Brazil, Egypt, and India acquiring it, as well as Greece, Qatar, Peru, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates.
The Mirage 2000 is a two-seat, single-engine fighter capable of flying at supersonic speeds at low altitudes, providing enhanced safety in areas dense with enemy anti-aircraft systems. The fighter is armed with two DEFA 554 cannons of 30mm caliber and has nine pylons with a total payload capacity exceeding 13,000 pounds.
The aircraft can carry various types of armament, including SCALP-EG cruise missiles, the French version of the Storm Shadow, as well as GBU guided bombs, JDAM, AM-39 Exocet anti-ship missiles, and AS-30L laser-guided anti-tank missiles.
Modifications of the Mirage 2000
Like the F-16A/B MLU, the French aircraft were likely delivered without NATO-restricted equipment, such as the identification friend-or-foe system. These French machines were likely upgraded to a higher standard; for example, the Mirage 2000-9 is known to have an enhanced electronic warfare system and RDY-2 radar, as well as MICA air-to-air missiles with a range of up to 50 miles.
However, it remains an open question whether the aircraft delivered to Ukraine have been integrated with MBDA Meteor missiles, which have a range of 124 miles. This capability would allow the French fighters to engage effectively with aircraft like the MiG-31.
