The Dassault Mirage 2000 is a single-engine, fourth-generation fighter aircraft developed by the French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation. Inspired by the success of the legendary Mirage III series in the late 1970s, this aircraft was originally designed as a lightweight interceptor. However, over time, it proved its capabilities and became a mainstay in the air forces of many countries. Around 600 units of the Mirage 2000 were produced during its manufacturing run.
Technical Specifications and Capacity
Mirage 2000 Armament and Payload Capacity Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1 × SNECMA M53-P2 turbofan |
| Max Fuel Capacity | 4 tons internal + expandable with underwing external tanks |
| Max Weapon Load | Up to 6,300 kg |
| Hardpoints | Total of 9 (4 underwing, 5 under fuselage) |
| Cannon Armament | 2 × 30 mm DEFA 554 cannons (125 rounds per barrel) |
Weapon Systems
| Weapon Type | Models / Description |
|---|---|
| Air-to-Air Missiles | – MBDA MICA IR/RF – Matra R550 Magic-II – Matra Super 530D |
| Air-to-Ground Missiles | – AM.39 Exocet – AS-30L – ASMP-A (nuclear) – Spice 2000 |
| Laser-Guided Bombs | – GBU-12 – GBU-16 – GBU-24 – GBU-49 |
| Conventional Bombs | – Mk.82 – PGM 500 – PGM 2000 |
Flight Performance
Performance Data
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Speed | 2,336 km/h (Mach 2.2 at high altitude) |
| Range | 1,550 km (operational) 3,335 km (with external fuel tanks) |
| Service Ceiling | 17,060 m |
| Rate of Climb | 285 m/s |
| Thrust-to-Weight Ratio | 0.91 |
Physical Dimensions
| Dimension / Weight | Value |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 9.13 m |
| Length | 14.36 m |
| Wing Area | 41 m² |
| Empty Weight | 7,500 kg |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 17,000 kg |
Radar and Avionics
Radar: The Mirage 2000-5 and 2000-9 variants are equipped with the Thomson-CSF RDY Doppler radar, capable of multi-target tracking and engagement. This advanced radar system enhances the aircraft’s combat versatility significantly.
Variants and User Nations
The Mirage 2000 has been developed in various configurations tailored for different operational needs and export markets.
Key Versions:
- Mirage 2000C/B – Single- and two-seat versions for air superiority
- Mirage 2000D/N – Specialized for precision strike and nuclear missions
- Mirage 2000-5 & 2000-9 – Upgraded models with enhanced radar and missile capabilities
- Mirage 2000E/H/P/M/EG – Export-specific variants adapted to user country needs
Global Operators and Fleet Inventory
| Country | Model | Total Units |
|---|---|---|
| France | 2000C, 2000D, 2000N, 2000B | 315 |
| India | 2000H/TH (modernized to I/TI) | 50 |
| UAE | 2000EAD, RAD, 9, 9D, DAD | 67 |
| Taiwan | 2000-5EI/DI | 60 |
| Greece | 2000EG/BG, 2000-5 Mk 2 | 44 |
| Egypt | 2000EM/BM | 20 |
| Brazil (retired) | 2000C/B | 12 |
| Qatar | 2000-5EDA/DDA | 12 |
| Peru | 2000P/DP | 12 |
A total of 583 Mirage 2000 aircraft were produced in various configurations and are (or were) actively used by air forces across the globe.
Despite being developed decades ago, the Dassault Mirage 2000 remains in active service in many air forces today. Its adaptability, powerful avionics, and proven combat capabilities make it a respected and reliable fighter aircraft in modern aerial warfare.
