Dassault Mirage Scrapbook
A French Air Force Mirage F.1CT taxies outbound during a rainstorm at CFB Cold Lake Alberta during a Maple Flag exercise.
Story by Ken Kula, photos by Ken Kula and Steve Lewis
French aircraft designer and builder Avions Marcel Dassault, now known as Dassault Aviation, created a delta-winged supersonic fighter during the 1950s. After multiple prototypes and experimental tailless designs, the delta-winged Mirage III first flew in 1956. Several versions of fighters and bombers were derived from the original Mirage III, Here’s a brief view at four major variants.
Swiss Air Force Mirage IIIRS shortly before the type was retired from the Swiss inventory. This was part of the NATO Recce Meet held at Florennes, Belgium.
Mirage III
Besides being chosen by the French Air Force, the Mirage III was widely exported. Variants of the supersonic jet fighter include this -IIIRS of the Swiss Air Force. This photo reconnaissance version.
French Air Force Mirage IVP (P is for Photographic) departs from RAF Fairford after the type’s final Air Tattoo appearance before retiring.
Mirage IV
The Mirage IV was the largest version of the Mirage. Designed as a nuclear bomber, the -IV had a crew of two. After being relieved of their nuclear mission by French Rafales, the former bomber got a new lease on life for a few years as a photo-reconnaissance jet.
Spanish Air Force Mirage F1M at another Air Tattoo in the U. K.
Mirage F.1
The F.1 is an interceptor, fighter and attack jet still in use by several countries. Versions include the F.1CT for close air support and the F.1CR photo reconnaissance version.
Mirage 2000-5F fighter of the French Air Force – Armee De L’Air
Mirage 2000
There are multiple versions of the upgraded Mirage 2000. This design drew upon the Mirage III’s delta wing, and serves as a fighter, interceptor, bomber and the -2000N version can carry tactical nuclear weapons.
