Facts summary and sources
Dassault Mirage 2000: speed field: Mach 2.2 (Published specification). First flight: 1978.
This is a secondary compilation. A source-check date applies only to the listed claim, not to the whole page or its translation. A page update is not a source check.
Sources and check records
- Dassault Aviation: Mirage 2000 β The manufacturer publishes a high-altitude maximum greater than Mach 2.2; the card uses rounded Mach 2.2. [Published specification] Β· Source checked for this claim: 2026-09-28
- Existing reference link Β· Source-check date not recorded
- Wikipedia reference Β· Source-check date not recorded
βοΈ Full Specifications
| Designation | Mirage 2000C |
| Manufacturer | Dassault Aviation |
| Country | π«π· France |
| First flight | 1978 |
| Crew | 1 |
| Length | 14.36 m (47.1 ft) |
| Max Speed (Mach) | 2.2 |
| Speed evidence basis | Published specification |
| Service Ceiling | 17,060 m (55,974 ft) |
| Range | 1,850 km (1,149 mi) |
| Engine | 1Γ SNECMA M53-P2 turbofan |
Overview
The Mirage 2000 brought fly-by-wire technology to the classic delta wing formula, creating a fourth-generation fighter developed after the Mirage F1. Over 600 have been built, serving with nine nations.
Design & Development
Returning to the tailless delta configuration after the swept-wing Mirage F1, Dassault added relaxed static stability and fly-by-wire controls to overcome the delta’s traditional limitations in maneuverability and landing speed. The result was an aircraft with both Mach 2.2 speed and excellent low-speed handling.
Operational History
The Mirage 2000 has proven itself in combat with India (Kargil War 1999), France (Gulf War, Afghanistan, Libya), and Greece. India’s Mirage 2000s delivered laser-guided bombs in the Kargil conflict with decisive effect. The type continues in service with India, France, Taiwan, UAE, and others.
Armament
This list spans different variants and periods. Mirage 2000C, 2000-5, 2000D and 2000N do not share every weapon or mission.
- 2Γ DEFA 554 30mm cannons
- MICA missiles
- Super 530D BVR missile
- Magic 2 IR missiles
- AS30L laser-guided missile
- GBU-12 laser-guided bombs
- ASMP nuclear missile (2000N variant)
Video
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the Mirage 2000?
Dassault publishes a high-altitude maximum above Mach 2.2 for the Mirage 2000 family. The summary card uses Mach 2.2 as a rounded published specification. It is not a newly measured speed record, and no fixed km/h equivalent is inferred without temperature and altitude conditions.
How is the Mirage 2000 different from the Mirage III?
The Mirage 2000 features fly-by-wire controls, a more powerful engine, and modern avionics. Fly-by-wire solved the delta wing’s poor low-speed handling.
How many Mirage 2000s were built?
Dassault describes a production run of 600 aircraft and eight export customers in addition to France. Counts in other sources can differ by prototype and production-aircraft scope.
Is the Mirage 2000 still in service?
Yes. France is gradually replacing it with the Rafale. India used it in the 1999 Kargil War.