In line with its commitment to regional stability and the defense of its strategic interests in Africa, the French Air and Space Force has reinforced its presence in Djibouti through the deployment of two Mirage 2000D RMV (Rénovation Mi-Vie, mid-life upgrade) fighters. This measure is part of the bilateral cooperation between France and the Republic of Djibouti, consolidated under the Defense Cooperation Treaty (DCT), which was renewed in 2024 for a 20-year period.
The presence of the Mirage 2000D RMV complements the three Mirage 2000-5F fighters already operating at the 188th Air Base “Colonel Massart” of the French Forces in Djibouti (FFDj). This deployment enhances the defense of Djiboutian territory, its airspace, and its territorial waters through PPSA (Permanent Air Security Posture) and SuCAP (Surface Close Air Protection) missions, ensuring the security of strategic routes and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Operated by crews of the 3rd Fighter Wing from Air Base 133 in Nancy, these aircraft received significant upgrades, including the integration of a 30 mm DEFA CC422 cannon, MICA IR air-to-air missiles, and laser-guided bombs GBU-48 and GBU-50. Furthermore, their navigation and attack system (SNA) was modernized, increasing the aircraft’s versatility for close air support and air policing missions.
The deployment of the Mirage 2000D RMV also symbolizes France’s intent to strengthen its operational autonomy and responsiveness to emerging threats in Africa and the Middle East. The introduction of these upgraded aircraft accelerates FFDj’s intervention capabilities and ensures greater operational efficiency in a complex geopolitical context, while reinforcing strategic cooperation with Djibouti.
The RMV program, launched a decade ago, seeks to extend the service life of 50 Mirage 2000D aircraft by replacing avionics and weapons systems, and integrating advanced targeting systems such as the TALIOS pods, which replace the DAMOCLES. The completion of this program by the end of 2025 will mark a milestone in the modernization of the French strike fleet, ensuring full operational capability of these fighters until the end of the decade.
Image credits: French Air and Space Force.
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