Dassault Mirage IV facts for kids

The Dassault Mirage IV in 2005.

The Dassault Mirage IV was a powerful supersonic bomber aircraft from France. It had two engines, making it very fast and strong. This aircraft first flew in June 1959.

It was designed to carry special weapons for defense, like a nuclear bomb called AN-22 or a nuclear missile called ASMP. The Mirage IV was actively used by the French Air Force from 1964 until 2009.

What Was It For?

At first, the Dassault Mirage IV was mainly used as a bomber. This meant its job was to fly long distances and deliver important payloads.

Later, starting around 1990, its role changed. After the French Air Force got newer planes like the Mirage 2000N, the Mirage IV was mostly used for reconnaissance. This means it flew missions to gather information and take pictures, like a flying spy camera.

Where Did It Serve?

The Dassault Mirage IV was a special aircraft that was only used by the French Air Force. It was never sold to other countries.

Today, you can see an example of this historic aircraft. A Mirage IV from 2000 is on display at the Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace (Museum of Air and Space) near Paris–Le Bourget Airport in France. It's a great place to learn more about French aviation history.

Images for kids

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  A French Air Force Mirage IV

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  Underside of a low-flying Mirage IV, 1986

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  Mirage IVP at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, England, 2003

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  Mirage IV on a reconnaissance mission over a burning oil field in 1991 following the Gulf War

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  Mirage IVP on static display

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  A French Mirage IVP of escadron de bombardement 1/91 Gascogne on tarmac

See also

In Spanish: Dassault Mirage IV para niños