FSX Mirage V F Ardennes 70's

This freeware add-on enriches Microsoft Flight Simulator X with a specialized French Air Force livery representing aircraft number 48, marked 3-XO, from the 3/3 “Ardennes” squadron stationed at Nancy-Ochey during the 1970s. It is a repaint package that requires the payware Skysim Mirage VF and showcases a classic delta-wing configuration in a period-correct fighter-bomber aesthetic. Developed and released by Bertrand Barbe, it delivers historical accuracy and a detailed texture set for virtual pilots seeking extra immersion.

Historical Insights on the Mirage 5F

The Dassault Mirage 5F is a derivation of the Mirage III lineage, well-known for its streamlined delta-wing planform. In actual service, it fulfilled multiple roles, including high-speed interception and ground-support missions. Squadron 3/3 “Ardennes,” operating from Nancy-Ochey in northeastern France, maintained this specific Mirage variant during the 1970s. Their aircraft carried squadron insignias and unique codes, reflecting the proud heritage of French aviation development initiated by Dassault.

Key Developer Information

Bertrand Barbe created this texture set exclusively for the Skysim Mirage VF payware model. The core 3D model is not included with this repaint, so users will need to acquire it separately from a reputable payware outlet (such as SimShack). Once the base Skysim Mirage VF package is installed, applying these textures will provide a correctly marked “3-XO” layout with period-accurate color schemes.

Preview of the Aircraft Textures

Texture Installation Steps

• Extract the contents of the downloaded archive into a temporary folder.
• Locate the main folder for the Skysim Mirage VF in your FSX Aircraft directory.
• Copy the new texture folder and the associated thumbnail file into that main folder.
• Open your aircraft.cfg, back up the original, and insert the revised configuration entry (shown below) under the next available [fltsim.X] section.

Essential Aircraft.cfg Entry

[fltsim.XX]
title=Dassault Mirage 5 EC3/3 n'48 3-XO
sim=SkySimMirage
model=3
panel=csweapon
sound=
texture=3-XO
kb_checklists=Mirage_check
kb_reference=Mirage_ref
atc_id=
atc_airline=
atc_flight_number=
ui_manufacturer=Dassault
ui_type=Armed Mirage III/5
ui_variation=mirage 5F EC 3/3 "Ardennes" n.48 3-XO
ui_typerole="Fighter-bomber"
ui_createdby="Skysim"
atc_parking_types=MIL_COMBAT
ui_thumbnailfile=thumbnail17.jpg
description=Dassault's delta-winged Mirage III/5 was one of the most successful fighter aircraft ever produced, serving in all combat roles including interceptor, reconnaissance, ground support, and nuclear attack. Over 1400 of the Mirage III/5 series were operated by 19 countries around the world, some to this day, and remained in production for over a decade.
visual_damage=0
panel_old=

Final Notes

Once these steps are completed, your simulator will display the distinctive “3-XO” markings of a classic Mirage 5F from the 3/3 “Ardennes” squadron. This livery was compiled by Bertrand Barbe and represents an authentic piece of French military aviation history. Enjoy navigating the virtual skies in this iconic 1970s camouflage scheme, and remember that the original payware model is required for these textures to function properly.