Mirage 2000D

The Mirage 2000D is a conventional ground attack version developed from the nuclear strike variant, the Mirage 2000N. The first flight of the Mirage 2000D prototype, a modified Mirage 2000N prototype, took place in 1991.

The aircraft is equipped with latest-generation flight controls enabling it to carry out high-precision attack missions in all weather and at low altitude with specialized laser-guided weapons or cruise missiles. It is equipped with a terrain-following radar and an ultra-modern cockpit.

The first production aircraft made its maiden flight in 1993. It entered into operational service in 1995. 86 Mirage 2000s have been produced.

The various Mirage 2000D squadrons within the 3rd Fighter Wing based at Nancy-Ochey Air Force Base 133 have projected their crews and personnel into all the theaters of operation involving the French Air and Space Force over the last 30 years. They received their baptism of fire in the turmoil of the Balkans (Opération Crécerelle / Deny Flight). Deployed from Central Asia in support of French and allied forces in Afghanistan, they then took part in Opération Harmattan in 2011, during the Libyan civil war. They have distinguished themselves and continue to do so on a daily basis in Africa and the Middle East in operations such as Serval, Epervier, Barkhane and Chammal.

In 2016, the French Defense procurement agency (DGA) awarded Dassault Aviation and its subcontractors a contract for the mid-life update of the Mirage 2000D, demonstrating their confidence in this aircraft and in the expertise of the manufacturers.