The modernization of combat aircraft is an attractive solution for countries that want to upgrade without having to buy new aircraft. Sagem Défense Sécurité is of course a world-renowned expert in this field, and will be displaying a fully revamped Mirage 5 at the Air Show.

“We offer our customers real turnkey retrofit packages,” says Christian Dedieu, head of the Systems and Modernization business at Sagem Défense Sécurité. “We work with them to determine their operational specifications, then carry out the modernization. From development and integration of the new avionics suite to technical and logistics support, we cover all phases, including crew training. We can also provide mission planning and playback systems, and in general the entire electronic environment needed to carry out complex missions.”

Several countries in the Middle East and Latin America are large-scale users of Mirage III family aircraft, and the last models of this type are gradually becoming concentrated in these regions. Sagem Défense Sécurité primarily provides modernization services in these countries.

Modernized Mirage 5 at the Paris Air Show

Sagem Défense Sécurité will be showing a modernized Mirage 5 on its stand at the Paris Air Show. The aircraft offers improved air-to-air and air-to-ground attack capabilities, including a glass cockpit, head-up display, HOTAS (hands on throttle and stick) control concept, etc. Inside the aircraft, Sagem Défense Sécurité has integrated a digital navigation and attack system, with a hybrid inertial/GPS navigation system, and of course interfaces with the new AASM modular ground attack system and Mica missiles.

In addition to the Mirage III/V family, Sagem Défense Sécurité is also proposing modernization of more recent Mirage F1 models. For example, one country wants to give its fleet of 27 aircraft multirole capability. “We will be creating an equal joint venture with Thales to handle this program,” explains Christian Dedieu. “We can then offer an all-French solution, based on the Sagem nav/attack system, an RDY radar and new weapon systems such as the AASM.” These aircraft will also be fitted with a modernized ejection seat by SEM MB, an equally-owned subsidiary of SAFRAN and Martin-Baker.

Other SAFRAN companies take active roles in the modernization programs coordinated by Sagem Défense Sécurité, including Labinal, to install new wiring, and Snecma, to upgrade the engines.

“Because of the expanded synergies, we can also offer very effective total support packages,” notes Christian Dedieu, “from the avionics to the engines and landing gear! For example, as part of our modernization contract with the Egyptian air force, we have agreed to support their Mirage 5 fighters for a period of 15 years.”