Mirage 2000 vs Su-30 and Su-35: unequal battle in the sky

Mirage 2000

The Mirage 2000 fighters, piloted by French pilots, face serious difficulties in air battles with the Russian Su-30 and Su-35. The difference in armament and tactical and technical characteristics of these aircraft significantly tips the scales in favor of Russian fighters, which makes the confrontation almost unequal.

Advantages of the Su-30 and Su-35

1. Range of air-to-air missiles:

   - The Su-30 and Su-35 are equipped with long-range air-to-air missiles, such as the R-77 with an effective range of up to 110 kilometers and the R-37M, capable of hitting targets at a distance of more than 300 kilometers. This allows Russian fighters to strike at the enemy without entering the range of its weapons.

2. Maneuverability and radar equipment:

   - Su-30 and Su-35 have high maneuverability and are equipped with modern radar systems, which allows them to effectively detect and track targets at long distances. This gives Russian pilots an advantage in planning and performing combat missions.

 Limitations of the Mirage 2000

1. Limited missile range:

   - The MICA missile installed on the Mirage 2000-5F, although it has high maneuverability and the ability to capture a target after launch, has a significantly shorter range compared to its Russian counterparts. This makes it difficult for French fighters to hit the enemy without entering the range of their missiles.

2. Tactical limitations:

   - Due to the limited range of their missiles, the Mirage 2000 pilots are forced to avoid direct collisions with Su-30 and Su-35 in order not to be in the range of Russian missiles. This significantly reduces their combat effectiveness and limits their capabilities in aerial combat.

Tactical consequences

1. Avoiding combat collisions:

   - French pilots on the Mirage 2000 are forced to avoid direct contact with the Su-30 and Su-35, which limits their ability to conduct active combat operations. Instead, they are forced to rely on avoidance tactics and the use of other means to achieve their goals.

2. Dependence on external support:

- In conditions where the Mirage 2000 cannot effectively counter Russian fighters, the French Air Force is forced to rely on external support, such as intelligence and guidance from the Allies, to compensate for its tactical shortcomings.

The Mirage 2000's confrontation with the Su-30 and Su-35 highlights the significant differences in the combat capabilities of these fighters. The advantages of Russian aircraft in missile range and maneuverability make them more effective in aerial combat. French pilots on the Mirage 2000 are forced to avoid direct collisions and rely on avoidance tactics, which reduces their combat effectiveness. In modern military conflicts, such tactical limitations can have serious consequences for the planning and execution of combat missions.