Mirage 2000-5F Achieves First Kill of Russian S8000 'Banderol' Cruise Missile Using Onboard Cannon

Combat Capabilities of the Mirage 2000-5F

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: In February 2025, Ukraine received French Mirage 2000-5F fighters, marking a significant enhancement in its air combat capabilities. Recently, one of these aircraft successfully intercepted and destroyed a Russian S8000 'Banderol' small cruise missile using its onboard aviation cannon. This milestone highlights the deepening military partnership between Ukraine and France amid the ongoing conflict.

The Mirage 2000-5F is equipped with two 30mm DEFA 554 automatic cannons, each loaded with 125 rounds. These cannons can fire at a maximum rate of 1,800 rounds per minute. The ammunition consists of 30x113 mm caliber shells, available in both high-explosive fragmentation and armor-piercing incendiary types, with muzzle velocities reaching approximately 815 meters per second.

Details of the S8000 'Banderol' Missile

The S8000 'Banderol,' developed by the Russian firm Kronstadt, is capable of speeds between 520 and 650 km/h, with a maximum flight range of up to 500 kilometers. Its propulsion relies on a Chinese-made Swiwin turbojet engine weighing 8.5 kg and spinning at up to 65,000 revolutions per minute.

The missile carries a 114.3 kg warhead (OFBCH-150), containing 49.5 kg of explosive material, designed to inflict significant damage upon impact.

On November 17, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a defense cooperation declaration. This pact paves the way for potential future acquisitions of around 100 French-made Rafale fighter jets, produced by Dassault Aviation. Notably, the Mirage 2000-5F also supports the use of Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG cruise missiles, underscoring its versatility and lethality.

France's provision of long-range missiles to Ukraine enables strikes deep into Russian territory, significantly bolstering Ukraine's defensive and offensive capabilities. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to regional security and support for Ukraine amid external threats.

This event marks a key milestone in the expanding military cooperation between Ukraine and France, which could alter the strategic balance in the region.

The successful interception by the Mirage 2000-5F demonstrates the increasing combat readiness of Ukrainian forces and their growing ability to counter external aggressions. Future aircraft procurements from France are expected to strengthen Ukraine's air defense and enhance operational effectiveness in combat scenarios.