The Aviation Magazine Volume 7 issue 4 #43 June Special Edition | Page 42
©2011 Ralf Peter Walter
©2006 Ralf Peter Walter
In July 1989, the “Mirage 2000N,” armed with ASMP‐A nuclear cruise missiles, began service with the Groupe 2/4. The unit has
been a part of the French Strategic Air Command and was designated as a Tactical Nuclear Strike Unit. Initially the La Fayette
Group consisted of three Escadrille: Escadrille No. 124 Sioux, Escadrille SPA 167 Cigognes, “The Storks” (wings up) and E scadrille
SPA160, les Diables Rouge, “The Red Devils.”
©2011 Ralf Peter Walter
The La Fayette squadron was moved from Base aérienne 116 Luxeuil Saint‐Sauveur to Istres, in September 2011 and merged
with the Escadron de Chasse 2/4 Limosin, with 2/4 remaining the only Mirage 2000N operating squadron. Over the years, to
commemorate anniversary milestones such as 50th, 75th, 95th and now the 100th anniversary several interesting paint
schemes emerged. The 100th anniversary is especially striking when compared to the 95th’s.