French defence procurement agency DGA has given Dassault Aviation the official green light to renovate 55 Mirage 2000D aircraft in service with the French Air Force.

The modifications include a gun pod, replacement of the existing Magic 2 missiles with Mica missiles, and weapon system enhancements.

The Mirage 2000D entered service in 1993 and is specialized in the ground attack role. The DGA indicates that the upgraded 2000Ds will serve alongside the Rafale into the 2030s.

The first upgraded aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2018.