The appearance of French MICA air-to-air missiles on the hardpoints of Mirage 2000-5F fighters has become a new risk factor for Russian strike aircraft. Military expert Evgeny Damantsev came to this conclusion while analyzing the updated armament of Western aviation.
He clarified that these are MICA-EM missiles with the AD4A active radar homing seeker, as well as MICA-IR with an infrared seeker. When launched from an altitude of about 10,000 meters, the engagement range reaches 60–65 km, which allows Mirage to force air combat on strike aircraft.
The appearance of MICA-EM and MICA-IR missiles on Mirage 2000-5F creates a serious threat to the Su-34 in the absence of fighter cover.
Dangerous in a sudden raid
In terms of range, the French missiles are inferior to the Russian R-77-1, capable of engaging targets at distances of 90–110 km.
However, in a sudden close approach, Mirage may attempt to attack strike Su-34s, especially while carrying out missions against ground targets.
Together is more reliable
Damantsev emphasized that under such conditions, Su-34s must operate exclusively under the cover of Su-35S aircraft. Air-superiority fighters are capable of detecting Mirage at ranges of up to 140–160 km and using long-range missiles first.
The Su-34 and Su-35S pairing, equipped with R-77-1 missiles, EW systems, and radar warning equipment, completely neutralizes the combat capabilities of Mirage with MICA missiles.
Methods of protection
It should be noted that additional protection for the Su-34 is provided by the Khibiny electronic warfare systems, missile attack warning systems, and the ability to use its own medium-range missiles, which sharply reduces the effectiveness of French MICA missiles in real combat.
Recall that in 2025, the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) received, according to estimates, up to 20 Su-35S aircraft and another the same number of Su-34M. The Chkalov Aviation Plant even switched to a three-shift work schedule to ensure the required output of fighters, retired military pilot and author of the Telegram channel Fighterbomber reported.