Ukrainian Mirage jet downs Russian Banderol missile with cannon fire
A Ukrainian Mirage 2000-5F aircraft has destroyed a Russian S8000 Banderol cruise missile using its onboard cannon for the first time, according to media reports.
A Ukrainian Mirage 2000-5F jet has successfully neutralized a Russian S8000 Banderol cruise missile using its onboard cannon, marking the first such instance, according to recent reports. The extraordinary feat was announced on October 2 by French Assistance to Europe, a project dedicated to monitoring military aid provided to Ukraine. The same event was also documented by Militarnyi, another Ukrainian source.
The pilot opted to utilize one of the fighter's two internal 30 mm DEFA 554 autocannons, rather than deploying missiles. Each cannon is equipped with 125 rounds and boasts a rate of fire capable of up to 1,800 rounds per minute. Engaging a target with cannon fire necessitates a closer approach compared to utilizing air-to-air missiles. Published data indicates the Banderol cruises at speeds ranging from 520 to 560 kilometers per hour, with a top speed of 620 to 650 kph. Its claimed range extends up to 500 kilometers.
Engaging adversaries with cannons offers significant advantages, particularly in conserving more expensive air-to-air missiles. In late September, France supplied Ukraine with an additional batch of MICA air-to-air missiles and 30 mm ammunition, specifically designed for its Mirage 2000 fighters. The S8000 Banderol, a product of Russian company Kronshtadt, is powered by a Chinese Swiwin turbojet engine and houses a high-explosive fragmentation warhead weighing over 114 kilograms, including approximately 49.5 kilograms of explosives.
France delivered its initial batch of Mirage 2000 fighters to Ukraine in early 2025. These aircraft have been employed for air defense and combat operations. Reports suggest that Ukrainian Mirage 2000-5Fs have also engaged in striking Russian targets on the front lines, bolstered by French-supplied AASM Hammer air-dropped bombs. Ukraine is eagerly anticipating further assistance from France, including additional Mirage 2000-5 aircraft and ammunition, to further bolster the nation's air defense capabilities.
Written by urgent.news from New Voice of Ukraine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
