Air International 2013-11
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H.-P.Grolleau - French Opeval /Military/
The operational evaluation of Link 16 was the last major task undertaken by CEAM personnel on the Mirage 2000-5F.
Numerous missions were flown during the operational evaluation of the Rafale's RBE2 AESA radar system. According to pilots, the level of performance of the AESA is outstanding.
The CEAM operates a varied fleet of fast jets. Here Rafale C137, the first production example fitted with an AESA radar, flies in formation with a Mirage 2000-5F.
The AASM has proven to be an accurate and flexible weapon system.
A Wescam MX-15 multi-sensor, multi-spectral imaging system turret mounted on the door of a special forces Transall.
Escadron de Transport 3/61 'Poitou' is a regular CEAM customer for special forces equipment.
Like all other Armee de I'Air aircraft, the EC725 Caracal was thoroughly tested by CEAM experts.
ASTAC reconaissance pods will be transferred to Mirage 2000D squadrons once the Mirage F1CR is withdrawn.
The Rafale's weapons inventory is expanding. This aircraft is seen with a MBDA SCALP EG cruise missile, GBU-22 and GBU-24 laser-guided bombs, AASM precision-guided munition and Mica air-to-air missiles.