The Mirage 2000N and the C-135FR have long remained the symbol of the Armee de I'Air nuclear deterrence force. The Mirage 2000N is now progressively giving way to the Rafale, while a replacement programme for the C-135FR is being discussed.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker / C-135 Stratolifter - СШАUSA - 1956Dassault Mirage 2000B/N/D - ФранцияFrance - 1980

The C-135FRs and KC-135Rs now adorn Armee de I'Air markings on the nose. The CFM56 turbofans give them sprightly performance.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker / C-135 Stratolifter - СШАUSA - 1956

A Mirage F1CR banks sharply over the Pyrenees. Only one squadron will remain operational with the F1CR until 2014. After that, only the Rafale will be capable of undertaking recce optical missions, while the Mirage 2000D will utilise the ASTAC pod in the ELINT role.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Dassault Mirage F.1 - ФранцияFrance - 1966

This Rafale C is equipped with six AASM precision munitions, two 2,000 litre drop tanks and one Mica IR training missile. Still, it remains extremely agile thanks to the advanced aerodynamics configuration designed by Dassault engineers.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Dassault Rafale - ФранцияFrance - 1986

The Harfang was successfully engaged in Libya and Afghanistan. However, the Armee de I'Air does not have enough UAVs to maintain more than one permanent surveillance orbit (and only just...), a situation that will have to be addressed.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: IAI Heron / Harfang - ИзраильIsrael - 1994

The Scalp cruise missile was first fired in action by Mirage 2000Ds and Rafales in Libya. The Mirage 2000D will remain in service alongside Rafales for the foreseeable future.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Dassault Mirage 2000B/N/D - ФранцияFrance - 1980

This ETR 2/92 'Aquitaine' two-seat Rafale B taxies back at the end of a training sortie from Saint-Dizier. 'Aquitaine' is a joint Air Force/Navy unit that handles initial Rafale training.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Dassault Rafale B / D / F - ФранцияFrance - 1993