France will upgrade 55 Mirage 2000

France will upgrade 55 Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft. The decision was taken almost a year ago, but the final number had not been confirmed. With these aircraft the French Air Force (FAF) will field 225 aircraft, the current objective.

Nowadays there are 71 Mirage 2000D available. There are several reasons for the upgrade. The fighter fleet is flying much more than originally anticipated (Libia, Syria, Mali...), increasing the wear. Rafale deliveries to external clients will take priority, and none are expected before 2021.

Mirage 2000D (worldwide-military.com).

With the upgrade the FAF will have a competitive aircraft, as the more sophisticated Rafale is not walys needed. Currently there are no details on what equipment will be integrated, but it could include MICA and AASM missiles, and an ASTAC pod.

References:

- http://www.latribune.fr/pourquoi-le-mirage-2000-garde-sa-place-dans-l-armee-de-l-air
- http://www.senat.fr/rap/a13-158-8/a13-158-815.html#toc318
- http://www.latribune.fr/le-mirage-2000d-volera-dans-l-armee-de-l-air-au-dela-de-2020-531976.html
- http://www.defense-aerospace.com/france-awards-contract-for-mid_life-upgrade