Nancy-Ochey Air Base 133 is preparing to host the official ceremony for the entry into operational service of the Mirage 2000 D fighter aircraft undergoing the mid-life modernization program (RMV - Rénovation à Mi-Vie) of the French Air Force on April 9. This important milestone marks the completion of the upgrade phase for a first group of aircraft of the model, in line with the directives of the Military Programming Act 2024-2030. The plan provides for the progressive return to the French air forces of a total of 50 modernized aircraft by the end of 2025.

The modernization initiative aims to extend the operational life of these versatile ground attack aircraft and enhance their operational capabilities. This strategic upgrade is part of the broader transition of the French Air Force and Space Force to the Rafale multi-role fighter, while ensuring that the refurbished Mirage 2000 D can continue to operate effectively alongside the Rafale beyond 2030. Maintaining the Mirage 2000 D fleet in service is of crucial importance to the French Air Force, given the significant contribution these aircraft have made in numerous international theaters of operations since their entry into service in the 1990s.

Designed specifically for ground attack missions, the Mirage 2000 D is a multi-role aircraft capable of carrying out precision air-to-ground attacks in all weather conditions, both day and night. Its ability to navigate at very low altitude and at high speed, following the contours of the terrain, is a distinctive feature. The periodic technological upgrades it has benefited from over the years have consistently confirmed its effectiveness in air-to-ground and intelligence roles.

The current mid-life modernization program introduces a number of significant improvements, including:

- The integration of a 30 mm cannon, enhancing the close fire support capability for ground troops.

- The adoption of modern armament   air-to-air, with the replacement of the Magic 2 missiles with the more performing Mica IR.

- An evolution of the weapon system architecture, which will enable the use of the latest generation precision weapons, such as the GBU-48 and GBU-50 laser-guided bombs.

- An enhancement of intelligence capabilities thanks to the integration of the Astac (TACtiques Signal Analyst) electronic listening capsule.

The commissioning ceremony will be presided over by Air Division General Vincent Chusseau, Deputy Chief of Staff "Plans and Programmes" of the French Air Force and Space Command, a testament to the strategic importance of the programme for French air defence.