The Mirage 2000C is a famous French fighter jet manufactured by Dassault Aviation. It is the second generation of the Mirage series, built from 1984 onwards. This combat aircraft was designed as a lightweight multirole fighter and serves in various air forces worldwide. It is known for its high maneuverability and impressive speeds of up to Mach 2.2, which is approximately 2,336 km/h (1,453 mph). Engineers like Marcel Dassault and Jean-Paul Hévin placed special emphasis on aerodynamics and the delta wing design, resulting in enhanced performance and agility. The aircraft has a wingspan of 9.13 meters (30 feet), a length of 14.36 meters (47 feet), and a maximum takeoff weight of around 17,000 kg (37,479 pounds).
The Mirage 2000C is equipped with an SNECMA M53-P2 engine, providing a thrust of 95 kN in afterburner mode. This capability allows the aircraft to achieve a climb rate of up to 285 m/s (56,083 feet per minute). The aircraft's maximum range is 3,335 km (2,074 miles) with external fuel tanks. The Mirage 2000C is also known for its ability to carry a variety of weapon systems. Key among them are the R.550 Magic 2 short-range air-to-air missiles and the Super 530D medium-range air-to-air missiles. It can also be equipped with various bomb types such as the GBU-12 Paveway II and MK-82. It features a modern Thomson-CSF RDI radar and advanced avionics systems, including a heads-up display (HUD) and a fly-by-wire control system.
Throughout its service history, the Mirage 2000C has participated in several significant conflicts worldwide. These include the Gulf War and the Yugoslav Wars. During the Gulf War, the Mirage 2000C was primarily used for air-defense missions, providing protection to coalition forces and safeguarding key infrastructure points from enemy air attacks. In the Yugoslav Wars, it was involved in close air support missions, conducting ground attacks and engaging hostile aircraft.
For model builders and collectors, the miniature version of the Mirage 2000C in 1/200 scale is an interesting addition. The Hogan miniature presents a detailed replica of the actual aircraft, made from high-quality diecast material. It features the distinctive insignias and markings of the French Air Force, as seen in the image shared by model enthusiast "C209". The aircraft bears the designation "103-KC," indicating a specific aircraft of the French Air Force. Such attention to detail makes this miniature highly sought after among model builders.
The paint scheme of the Hogan miniature in 1/200 scale is also noteworthy. The gray and light blue camouflage scheme applied to the Mirage 2000C is replicated with accurate details. This camouflage serves to reduce the aircraft's visibility to enemy units. Additionally, all markings, such as the French registration number and various maintenance indicators, have been meticulously reproduced. The model also includes replicas of the weapon stations under the wings, loaded with external tanks and missiles, further enhancing the authenticity and realistic nature of the model. For model enthusiasts and collectors, this miniature offers a detailed and scaled representation of a famous jet.