Editing Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet

{{Short description|French light attack fighter}}
{{redirect|Alpha Jet}}
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. -->
{{Infobox aircraft
  |name= Alpha Jet
  |image= File:Alpha Jet - RIAT 2007 (2544737153).jpg
  |caption= An Alpha Jet of the French Air Force
  |type= [[Attack aircraft|Light attack]] and [[trainer (aircraft)#Advanced training|advanced trainer aircraft]]
  |national_origin= France / West Germany
  |manufacturer= [[Dassault Aviation]]/[[Dornier Flugzeugwerke]]
  |designer=
  |first_flight= 26 October 1973
  |introduction= 4 November 1977
  |retired=
  |status= In service
  |primary_user= [[French Air and Space Force]]
  |more_users=[[Top Aces]]<br />[[Egyptian Air Force]]<br />[[Royal Thai Air Force]]
  |produced= 1973–1991
  |number_built= 480
  |unit cost= $4.5 million (1978)<ref name = "flight manuf 1978"/>
  |developed_from=<!-- the aircraft which formed the basis for the topic type -->
  |variants=<!-- variants OF the topic type -->
}}

The '''Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet''' is a [[attack aircraft|light attack]] [[jet aircraft|jet]] and advanced [[jet trainer]] co-manufactured by [[Dassault Aviation]] of France and [[Dornier Flugzeugwerke]] of Germany. It was developed specifically to perform trainer and light attack missions, as well as to perform these duties better than the first generation of jet trainers that preceded it. Following a competition, a design submitted by a team comprising [[Breguet Aviation]], Dassault Aviation, and Dornier Flugzeugwerke, initially designated as the ''TA501'', was selected and subsequently produced as the Alpha Jet.

Both the [[French Air and Space Force]] and [[West German Air Force]] procured the Alpha Jet in large numbers, the former principally as a trainer aircraft and the latter choosing to use it as a light attack platform. As a result of post-[[Cold War]] military cutbacks, Germany elected to retire its own fleet of Alpha Jets in the 1990s and has re-sold many of these aircraft to both military and civilian operators. The Alpha Jet has been adopted by a number of air forces across the world and has also seen active combat use by some of these operators.

==Development==
===Origins===
[[File:Fabrieksfoto van de Dassault-Breguet-Dornier Alpha Jet (2157 034078).jpg|thumb|An early Alpha Jet presented in a company marketing photo.]]

In the early 1960s, European air forces began to consider their requirements for the coming decades. One such area of consideration was the requirement for a new generation of jet-powered trainer aircraft to replace such aircraft as the US-built [[Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star]] and French-built [[Fouga Magister]]. Britain and France established a collaborative program to pursue development of what was initially intended to become a [[supersonic]] jet aircraft. This aircraft was to be produced in two distinct variants for different roles: trainer and [[light attack aircraft]]. The result of this collaboration, the [[SEPECAT Jaguar]], proved to be an excellent aircraft, but its definition had changed in the interim, and the type emerged as a full-sized, nuclear-capable [[strike fighter]], whose two-seat variants were used for operational conversion to the type. As such, the Jaguar was not well suited for the general training mission.<ref name="Alpha Jet">[http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/passion/aircraft/military-dassault-aircraft/alpha-jet.html?L=1 "Alpha Jet."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120515212126/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/passion/aircraft/military-dassault-aircraft/alpha-jet.html?L=1 |date=2012-05-15 }} ''Dassault.'' Retrieved: 30 December 2012.</ref>

This left the original requirement unfulfilled. As a result of this outcome, in 1967, France entered into a series of discussions with West Germany on the topic of a prospective collaboration effort to meet this demand.<ref name = "kocs 112">Kocs 1995, p. 112.</ref> West Germany was keen to participate in such talks, having long held an interest in conducting joint training operations with France along with a desire for strengthening positive political relations between the two nations.<ref>Kocs 1995, pp. 112-113.</ref> France also valued military cooperation with West Germany, wanting to break a perceived German ideological preference for American aircraft.<ref name = "kocs 113">Kocs 1995, p. 113.</ref> 

In 1968, a joint specification was produced out of these talks. One substantial change to the requirements was that the sought trainer was now specified to be subsonic, supersonic trainer aircraft having proven to be superfluous to practical requirements. In July 1969, a joint development and production agreement was signed between West Germany and France. Under the terms of this agreement, the two nations committed to purchasing 200 aircraft, these being domestically assembled in each of their own countries.<ref name="AIjun84 p270"/><ref name = "lamb 264"/>

At one point, both the German government and the German Air Force had been keen to relocate pilot training activities from the United States to France as part of the project. In 1971, this was abandoned over fears of a hostile US reaction and West Germany's offset obligations to the United States making such a move unpalatable.<ref>Kocs 1995, pp. 112-114.</ref> While the joint Franco-German training proposal was abandoned, the German government felt obligated to proceed with the aircraft program. At the time, Germany did not require a new trainer aircraft, but needed a replacement for its fleet of [[Fiat G.91]] attack aircraft.<ref>Kocs 1995, pp. 113-114.</ref> 

Germany proposed that the aircraft be built in two distinct versions, as an inexpensive trainer for the French requirement, and as a [[close air support]] platform for the German requirement. This position was accepted by France. An initial point of contention whether to use a French or American powerplant for the aircraft was settled, with France agreeing to solely finance the development of the French-built Larzac engine while Germany agreed to adopt the same powerplant.<ref name = "kocs 114"/><ref name = "lamb 264">Lambert 1974, p. 264.</ref>

Three groups of manufacturers produced proposals in response to the requirement. These were Dassault, Breguet and Dornier submitted the "TA501", which had been developed through a merger of the Breguet 126 and Dornier P.375 concepts. VFW-Fokker submitted their "VFT-291" aircraft, while SNIAS/MBB submitted the "E.650 Eurotrainer".<ref name="AIjun84 p270">Braybrook 1984, p. 270.</ref> Each of these proposals were to be powered by twin [[SNECMA Turbomeca Larzac]] [[turbofan]] engines.<ref name="AIjun84 p270"/> The German Air Force insisted that the trainer have two engines after having suffered from severe aircraft attrition rates due to the high accident rate of the single-engine [[Lockheed F-104 Starfighter]].

===Into production===
[[File:Patrouille-de-france-alpha-jet-dessous.jpg|thumb|A French Alpha Jet of the [[Patrouille de France]] flight display team]]
On 23 July 1970, the Breguet-Dassault-Dornier TA501 was declared the winner of the competition.<ref>Lambert 1974, pp. 264-265.</ref> In February 1971, the project definition phase was completed and the integrated design team was set up at [[Saint-Cloud]], [[Paris]], France. That same month, a join Franco-German protocol was signed, launching the construction of four prototypes.<ref name = "lamb 265">Lambert 1974, p. 265.</ref> In February 1972, the approval to proceed with full development was issued.<ref name="AIjun84 p270"/><ref name = "kocs 114"/> In May 1972, the first project meeting was held in [[Bordeaux]], at which the order for the four prototypes was placed. In November 1972, the project passed its first mock-up review.<ref name = "lamb 265"/> Dassault was designated as the 'pilot' company for the project and possessed final authority on design and management decisions. This approach to project management has been claimed to have been a mostly efficient manner of running the program.<ref name = "kocs 115">Kocs 1995, p. 115.</ref>

[[File:Emmen, Dassault Alpha Jet E (Com LC1329-004-008).jpg|thumb|A Dassault Alpha Jet E demonstrator F-ZJRM in Emmen Switzerland, 1986]]
Two prototypes were to be built by Dassault in France, Dassault having bought out Breguet in the meantime, and a further two were to be built by Dornier in Germany. In October 1973, the first French prototype performed its first flight at [[Istres Air Base|Istres]], [[Marseille]]. In January 1974, the first German prototype conducted its [[maiden flight]] from [[Oberpfaffenhofen]], [[Bavaria]]. The remaining two prototypes were in the air before the end of 1974.<ref name="Alpha Jet"/> The first and second prototypes were used to explore the aircraft's [[flight envelope]], the third prototype was fitted with the French trainer equipment fit and the fourth with the German close air support equipment.<ref name = "lamb 265"/> The prototypes were equipped with recording and [[telemetry]] equipment packages, allowing for instrumentation readings and other useful data to be received on the ground in real time during test flights.<ref name = "lamb 266"/>

Manufacture of Alpha Jet sub-assemblies was divided between France (Dassault), Germany (Dornier) and Belgium ([[SABCA]]), each country performing final assembly and checkout of the type in separate facilities. Dassault hosted the largest of these three assembly lines, typically producing 13 aircraft per month to meet the needs of French and export customers. It was reportedly capable of a maximum output of 15 Alpha Jets per month. The Dornier final assembly line typically maintained a maximum rate of six aircraft per month.<ref name = "flight manuf 1978"/> In contrast to the final assembly arrangements, none of the three sources duplicated the manufacture of any component: Dassault-Breguet produced the front and center fuselage, Dornier constructed the wing, tail and rear fuselage, while SABCA manufactured the nose and [[Flap (aeronautics)|flaps]] of the aircraft.<ref name = "flight manuf 1978">[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1978/1978%20-%202955.html "Dassault-Breguet/Dornier Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803101316/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1978/1978%20-%202955.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 8 November 1978. p. 1882.</ref> A total of 4,500 people were employed in the manufacturing of the Alpha Jet in Germany, an equal number in France also worked on the programme.<ref name = "flight 1148">[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1976/1976%20-%200756.html "Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803214506/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1976/1976%20-%200756.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 1 May 1976. p. 1148.</ref>

Both Belgium and Egypt, who were early export customers for the Alpha Jet, domestically performed the final assembly of their French-configuration Alpha Jet E aircraft. In September 1978, Dassault and the [[Arab Organization for Industrialization]] (AOI) signed a [[Licensed production|license manufacturing]] agreement for the Alpha Jet. Egyptian assembly work was carried out in a facility in [[Helwan]], [[Egypt]].<ref name = "flight 1978"/> In July 1978, Dassault signed an agreement with American aircraft manufacture [[Lockheed Corporation|Lockheed]] to market the Alpha Jet in the US market. The arrangement included provisions for Lockheed to manufacture the Alpha Jet under license. It was considered as a candidate for the US Navy's VTXTS advanced trainer program, eventually won by the [[McDonnell Douglas T-45 Goshawk]], a modified version of the [[Hawker Siddeley Hawk]]. Proposed modifications included undercarriage changes for nose-tow catapults and a stronger arrestor hook, as well as various US-sourced avionics and other equipment.<ref name = "flight 1978"/>

On 4 November 1977, the first production aircraft made its first flight.<ref name = "flight manuf 1978"/> In September 1978, deliveries of production Alpha Jets began.<ref name = "kocs 114"/> The four prototypes remained in service as flying testbeds, being used for further development of the type such as to evaluate a [[composite material|composite]] graphite-epoxy wing and improved versions of the Larzac engine.<ref name="Alpha Jet"/> Prototype 01 was specifically used early on to support the development of the Larzac engine.<ref name = "flight 1148"/> The different avionics fit makes French and German Alpha Jets relatively easy to visually distinguish the two, with French planes featuring a rounded-off nose and German ones featuring a sharp, pointed nose.<ref name="Alpha Jet"/>

===Further development===
In 1980, work began on an "Alternate Close Support" version of the Alpha Jet, featuring a SAGEM ULISS 81 INS, a Thomson-CSF VE-110 HUD, a TMV630 laser rangefinder in a modified nose and a TRT AHV 9 radio altimeter, with all avionics linked through a digital databus. The initial flight was in April 1982. Cameroon obtained seven, some sources claim 6,{{Citation needed|date=October 2008}} and Egypt obtained 15. As with the original Egyptian order for MS1 machines, Dassault provided four such machines under the designation of ''MS2'', and AOI of Egypt assembled the other eleven from [[Knock-down kit|knockdown kit]]s.<ref name = "flight 1988"/>

The ''Alpha Jet 2'', originally the ''Alpha Jet NGEA'' (''Nouvelle Generation Appui/Ecole'' or "New Generation Attack/Training") was a proposed development of the Alpha Jet. It featured the basic avionics of the MS2 plus compatibility with the advanced French [[Matra Magic]] 2 AAMs and the more powerful Larzac 04-C20 turbofans refitted to Luftwaffe Alpha Jet A aircraft. Some of the aircraft's new avionics were derived from the [[Dassault Mirage 2000]] fighter.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1982/1982%20-%201089.html "New-generation trainer/attack Alpha Jet flight-tested."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803105145/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1982/1982%20-%201089.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 24 April 1982. p. 1033.</ref><ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%201199.html "Warlike Jets."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803111144/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%201199.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 2 July 1983. p. 27.</ref><ref name = "flight 1988 36"/> In 1982, it was claimed that the Alpha Jet NGEA was the "only existing aircraft in its category featuring a completely integrated digital navigation and attack system".<ref name = "ngea public"/> While no new-build aircraft were produced of this variant, existing Egyptian Alpha Jets were reportedly upgraded to a similar standard.<ref name = "flight 1988"/> A single prototype was flown, presumably a modification of one of the original Alpha Jet prototypes. In September 1982, this aircraft made its first public appearance at the [[Farnborough Airshow]].<ref name = "ngea public">[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1982/1982%20-%202135.html "New Generation Alpha Jet First Public Appearance."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161130051712/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1982/1982%20-%202135.html |date=2016-11-30 }} ''Flight International'', 4 September 1982. p. 657.</ref>

[[File:Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jet A.jpg|thumb|A pair of Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jet A from the extinct [[Asas de Portugal]] flight demonstration team in formation]]
Another proposed variant was the ''Alpha Jet 3 Advanced Training System'', at one point given the title of "Lancier". This proposal was intended to perform all-weather ground attack operations, as well as to perform [[anti-surface warfare|anti-shipping]] and anti-[[helicopter]] missions.<ref name = "flight 1988"/><ref name = "flight 1988 36"/> Featured many of the same systems as the ''Alpha Jet 2'', it was to be equipped with twin cockpit multifunction displays (MFDs) and potential carriage of AGAVE or Anemone radar, a [[forward-looking infrared]] (FLIR) imager, a laser targeting system and a modern countermeasures suite.<ref name = "flight 1988"/> A prototype was flown, again presumably an upgrade of an original Alpha Jet prototype.

In June 1985, Dornier announced that it was studying its own third generation Alpha Jet upgrade program, independent of Dassault. This proposed upgrade involved substantial avionics upgrades and [[user interface|man-machine interface]] alterations, such as the addition of multiple [[head-up display]]s (HUDs) to allow instructors to view what students are viewing, with the aim of being more suited for the sophisticated requirements of modern and impending fighter aircraft. Dornier judged the Alpha Jet's airframe to have been suitable without modification for future market needs.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1985/1985%20-%202045.html "New Alpha Jet shown."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803111352/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1985/1985%20-%202045.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 22 June 1985. p. 9.</ref>

In September 1988, Dassault revealed that it had proposed a navalised variant of the Alpha Jet, as a carrier-based trainer to the [[French Naval Aviation]] to replace their [[Fouga CM.175 Zéphyr]] and [[Dassault Étendard IV]] fleets.<ref name = "flight 1988"/> Designated ''Alpha Jet Maritime 3'', it was promoted as having been fully navalised and fitted with the avionics intended for the ''Alpha Jet 3 Advanced Training System'' to give it compatibility with the upcoming next generation of carrier fighter aircraft. Carrier adaptions included the addition of an [[arrestor hook]] and a strengthened  [[landing gear]] and undercarriage.<ref name = "flight 1988"/>

==Design==
[[File:Alpha Jet Repair HDR (7380494872).jpg|thumb|upright|A partly disassembled Alpha Jet during maintenance]]
The Alpha Jet is a light twin-engine aircraft equipped with an intentionally simple airframe despite the performance delivered. Both the [[leading edge]]s and air intakes are fixed; while the [[aerodynamics|aerodynamic]] shape of the aircraft, which was developed with the aid of [[computer aided design]] (CAD), conforms with the [[area rule]].<ref name = "lamb 266">Lambert 1974, p. 266.</ref> Fully powered controls are used, comprising a dual-[[hydraulics|hydraulic]] systems and load-factor limited dynamic feel system arrangement attached to conventional [[flight control surfaces]].<ref name = "lamb 266"/> The cockpit is [[cabin pressurization|pressurised]] for greater comfort during training. The Alpha Jet is designed to accommodate ten-minute turn around times with minimal ground equipment, using features such as pressurised single-point refueling, ladder-less entry/exit of the cockpit, and a ten-hour endurance of the [[liquid oxygen]] system.<ref name = "lamb 266"/>

The Alpha Jet was designed to perform a diverse range of roles. The principal users of the type, Germany and France, operated their Alpha Jets in different capacities, the German as a [[ground attack]] platform and the French as a [[trainer (aircraft)|trainer aircraft]].<ref name = "flight 1148"/> Beyond performing different roles, the Alpha Jet fleets of France and Germany noticeably differed in their specification and equipment. German aircraft were fitted with a more extensive weapon-aiming system, a different fuel system, a [[yaw damper]], different [[brake]]s, nosewheel steering, an [[arrester hook]], and Stencel [[ejector seat]]s in place of [[Martin-Baker]].<ref name = "flight 1148"/> The majority of the specialised equipment used on the ground attack-orientated variant of the Alpha Jet was provided by German firms.<ref>Lambert 1974, pp. 266, 277.</ref> In addition to the ground attack role, the Luftwaffe employed the Alpha Jet in the [[Electronic countermeasure#Aircraft ECM|electronic countermeasures]] (ECM) and [[aerial reconnaissance]] roles; for the latter purpose, a reconnaissance pod could be fitted upon the port [[hardpoint]].<ref name = "flight 1148"/><ref name = "lamb 265"/>

The Alpha Jet is powered by a pair of [[SNECMA Turbomeca Larzac]] [[turbofan]] engines. It is a low bypass-ratio, twin-spool engine that uses modular construction methods.<ref name = "engine flight"/> The Larzac was a new engine at the time, having only performed its first run a year prior to being selected to power the Alpha Jet. The need for greater thrust to power the aircraft than the original model of the engine could generate led to the development and adoption of the 2,970&nbsp;lb ''Larzac 04'' in February 1972. This version of the engine initially powered the Alpha Jet.<ref name = "engine flight">Fulton, Ken. [https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1974/1974%20-%200298.html "Power for the Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803123521/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1974/1974%20-%200298.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 8 February 1974. p. 268.</ref> 

West Germany was interested in powering the type with the [[General Electric J85]], but France objected to the use of an American engine which would result in US export restrictions upon the overall aircraft and agreed to assume the cost of developing the French-built Larzac.<ref name = "kocs 114">Kocs 1995, p. 114.</ref> During the 1980s, an upgraded model of the Larzac engine which increased the thrust by 10 per cent was developed.<ref>"New Engine Being Developed for Alpha Jet." ''Aviation Week & Space Technology'', McGraw-Hill, 1982. Volume 116, Issues 22-26, p. 115.</ref>

The avionics of the original version of the Alpha Jet were of an austere nature, partly to make it a simple and easily exportable aircraft.<ref name = "kocs 115"/> The basic type lacked features such as an [[autopilot]], [[inertial navigation]], or a [[radar]].<ref name = "kocs 115"/> Later upgrade programs typically focused on the addition of a [[glass cockpit]] and other avionics systems. The Luftwaffe's Alpha Jets were equipped with additional avionics for the attack role, such as a [[Doppler radar]] and additional [[hardpoint]]s.<ref name = "flight 1148"/> During the 1970s, Dornier claimed that the Alpha Jet outperformed aircraft used as the [[McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II]], [[LTV A-7 Corsair II]], and [[Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II]] in the [[close air support]] role. The firms stated that the Alpha Jet was smaller, faster, less vulnerable, more maneuverable, cheaper and had higher all-round performance than the A-10.<ref name = "flight 1148"/>

The Alpha Jet was more complex than competing second generation trainer aircraft, requiring seven [[man hour]]s of maintenance for every flight hour.<ref name = "flight manuf 1978"/> Nearly 5,000lb of munitions and equipment can be carried on five hardpoints, four on the wings and one at the centerline on the lower fuselage.<ref name = "flight manuf 1978"/> In an armed configuration, a [[gun pod]] containing a 30&nbsp;mm [[DEFA cannon]], as installed on French aircraft, or 27&nbsp;mm [[Mauser BK-27]] [[Cannon#Aircraft use|cannon]], as installed on German aircraft, would typically be installed upon the centerline hard point.<ref name = "flight manuf 1978"/>

==Operational history==
===France===
[[File:French Air Force Alpha Jet E.jpg|right|thumb|French Air Force Alpha Jet E]]
The [[French Air Force]] decided to use the Alpha Jet primarily as a trainer.<ref name="AIjun84 p270"/> On 4 November 1977, the first production Alpha Jet intended for French service conducted its first flight.<ref name="Janes 82 p105">Taylor 1982, p. 105.</ref> The French variant was known as the ''Alpha Jet E'' (the "E" standing for ''École'', [[French language|French]] for "School") or ''Alpha Jet Advanced Trainer/Light Attack'' aircraft. The initial deliveries to France for service trials took place in 1978, lead to the type being introduced to line service in May 1979. The Alpha Jet E quickly replaced the [[Canadair CT-133 Silver Star|Canadair T-33]] and [[Fouga Magister]] in jet trainer role, as well as the [[Dassault Mystère IV]]A in its weapons training capacity.<ref name="Janes 82 p105"/><ref name="AIjun84 p275-6"/><ref name = "flight 1978">[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1978/1978%20-%202719.html "Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803090334/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1978/1978%20-%202719.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 4 November 1978. p. 1649.</ref>

[[File:French Alpha Jet 1988.jpg|thumb|Six French Alpha Jets of the ''[[Patrouille de France]]'' flight display team flying in formation during Air Fete '88 ]]
The ''[[Patrouille de France]]'', air demonstration team of the French Air Force, fly the Alpha Jet.<ref name="Janes 82 p105"/><ref name="AIjun84 p275-6">Braybrook 1984, pp. 275–276.</ref> A total of 176 production Alpha Jet E machines were delivered up to 1985, not the 200 that had been planned. While an excellent aircraft, French air force commanders of combat units had one complaint against the Alpha Jet, that it was a very forgiving aircraft to fly, resulting in a lengthier and steeper learning curve when assigned to fly combat aircraft which were not so forgiving.<ref>Christophe Gasztych, "Savoie's AUTUMN" ''Air Force's Monthly'', March 2013, pp. 40-45.</ref>

During the early 1990s, the French Air Force investigated the ''Alpha Jet 3'' program, which involved installing a fully digital cockpit, modernised communications suite, and a full navigation/attack and sensor training system. It was ultimately abandoned as being too expensive.<ref name = "france life extend"/> In 1998, France's defence ministry examined prospective upgrades focused on the Alpha Jet's cockpit, such as the installation of a new [[Head-up display#Military aircraft specific applications|Head-Up Display]] (HUD) and multifunction displays.<ref name = "france life extend">[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-studies-alpha-jet-life-extension-44053/ "France studies Alpha Jet life extension."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803114805/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-studies-alpha-jet-life-extension-44053/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 21 October 1998.</ref> 

In June 2003, Dassault revealed its plans for an Alpha Jet upgrade to potentially meet the French Air Force's long term training requirements. This upgrade was similar to that which was performed for the Belgian Air Force's Alpha Jet fleet, involving the installation of a [[glass cockpit]], increasing cockpit compatibility with frontline aircraft such as the [[Dassault Rafale]] and [[Dassault Mirage 2000]], as well as a structural overhaul.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/alpha-jet-upgrade-ahead-167271/ "Alpha Jet upgrade ahead."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803120723/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/alpha-jet-upgrade-ahead-167271/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 17 June 2003.</ref>

In September 2014, [[Direction générale de l'armement]] (DGA) and French Air Force officials were reportedly investigating the [[Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master]] as a replacement for the Alpha Jet. [[Alenia Aermacchi]] claimed that France was interested in procuring 35 M-346s in this capacity.<ref>Perry, Dominic. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-to-evaluate-m-345-as-possible-alpha-jet-repla-403569/ "France to evaluate M-345 as possible Alpha Jet replacement."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803114258/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-to-evaluate-m-345-as-possible-alpha-jet-repla-403569/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 11 September 2014.</ref> In April 2015, the DGA issued an initial pre-solicitation request for a replacement trainer aircraft. Likely candidates for this requirement reportedly include the M-346 Master, [[Aero L-39 Albatros]], [[Beechcraft T-6 Texan II]] and [[Pilatus PC-21]].<ref>Perry, Dominic. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/paris-france-plans-alpha-jet-replacement-413675/ "PARIS: France plans Alpha Jet replacement."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803114038/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/paris-france-plans-alpha-jet-replacement-413675/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 16 June 2015.</ref> The PC-21 was introduced in 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-speeds-pc-21-441324/|title=France speeds PC-21 deliveries|date=2018-09-20|access-date=3 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107013305/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-speeds-pc-21-deliveries-441324/|archive-date=7 November 2017|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blogbeforeflight.net/2017/05/unveiled-first-pilatus-pc-21-for-french-air-force.html|title=UNVEILED THE FIRST PILATUS PC-21 FOR FRENCH AIR FORCE|access-date=3 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107015514/http://www.blogbeforeflight.net/2017/05/unveiled-first-pilatus-pc-21-for-french-air-force.html|archive-date=7 November 2017|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

All remaining trainer aircraft had been retired in 2024. Only the [[Patrouille de France]] is still in 2025 operating 16 Alphajets, as 2 were lost early 2025.

===West Germany / Germany===
[[File:Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jet A, Germany - Air Force AN1990606.jpg|thumb|A German Air Force Alpha Jet prior to landing at [[RAF Fairford]], [[Gloucestershire]], [[England]], 1991]]
The [[German Air Force|Luftwaffe]] decided to use the Alpha Jet mainly in the light strike role, preferring to continue flight training in the southwestern United States on American trainer types instead of performing training in Germany, although Germany also used Alpha Jets based at [[Beja (Portugal)|Beja]], Portugal for weapons training.<ref name="AIjun84 p270,6">Braybrook 1984, pp. 270, 276.</ref> On 12 April 1978, the first production German Alpha Jet performed its maiden flight, deliveries commenced in March 1979. It was designated the ''Alpha Jet A'' (the "A" standing for ''Appui Tactique'' or "Tactical Support") or ''Alpha Jet Close Support'' variant.<ref name="Janes 82 p105"/> The Luftwaffe obtained a total of 175 aircraft up to 1983, the type was used to replace the [[Aeritalia G.91|Fiat G91R/3]] fleet.<ref name="Alpha Jet"/><ref name = "flight 1978"/>

In 1985, West Germany began a comprehensive upgrade program, known as the ''Improved Combat Efficiency'' (ICE) program, for their Alpha Jet fleet; these upgrades were to involve the installation of a [[MIL-STD-1553|Mil Spec 1553B]] databus, new sensors integrated with the navigation/attack systems, modernized electronic countermeasures suite, measures to minimize the aircraft's radar and infrared signatures, protection measures around the fuel system, and new armaments such as the [[AGM-65 Maverick]].<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1985/1985%20-%201240.html "Luftwaffe outlines Alpha Jet update."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803105424/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1985/1985%20-%201240.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 27 April 1985. p. 8.</ref><ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1987/1987%20-%201329.html "Dassault-Breguet Dornier Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803101049/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1987/1987%20-%201329.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 1 August 1987. p. 27.</ref> In 1988, it was announced that the ICE program has been cancelled.<ref name = "flight 1988">[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1989/1989%20-%202532.html "Dassault-Breguet Dornier Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803100002/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1989/1989%20-%202532.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 19 August 1989. p. 38.</ref> A more austere upgrade program did proceed in its place, which integrated the [[AIM-9 Sidewinder|AIM-9L Sidewinder]] [[air-to-air missile]] and navigation computer upgrades, along with several minor airframe and equipment refinements, such as the addition of a jettisonable [[gun pod]].<ref name = "flight 1988 36">[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1988/1988%20-%202118.html "Dassault-Breguet Dornier Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803102704/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1988/1988%20-%202118.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 13 August 1988. p. 36.</ref>

During the 1991 [[Gulf War]], 18 German Alpha Jets were deployed to Turkey alongside 6 [[Italian Air Force|Italian]] [[Aeritalia F-104S Starfighter|F-104s]] and [[Belgian Air Component|Belgian]] [[Dassault Mirage 5|Mirage 5s]] under a [[NATO]]-based operation to protect Turkey against potential Iraqi attacks.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.freedomanatomy.com/en/missioni/ace-guard/ | title=Ace Guard }}</ref>

In 1992, the Luftwaffe began to phase out their Alpha Jet A aircraft, reserving 45 for lead-in fighter training. In 1993, a total of 50 were passed on to Portugal to replace the [[Northrop T-38 Talon]] and [[Fiat G.91]] fleets, with five of these used for spares.<ref name="Stijger p128-9">Sijger 1994, pp. 128–129.</ref> The rest of the Luftwaffe's Alpha Jets were gradually phased out, the last leaving service in 1998, and customers were sought to buy them.<ref>Barrie, Douglas. [https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1992/1992%20-%200865.html "Germany nears Alpha Jet deal."] {{Webarchive|url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160803105945/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1992/1992%20-%200865.html |date=2016-08-03}} ''Flight International'', 7 April 1992. p. 17.</ref><ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1994/1994%20-%201666.html "Dassault-Breguet Dornier Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803104130/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1994/1994%20-%201666.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 19 July 1994. p. 40.</ref> In October 1995, the German military offered 42 Alpha Jets to Poland for 143 million PLN.<ref>Michta 2016, pp. 70-71.</ref> In 1999, 25 Alpha Jets were sold to Thailand at 1 million baht ($27,000) each, replacing the [[North American OV-10 Bronco]] in the border patrol role;<ref name = "thai buy">[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/thailand-wants-f-16s-and-shrinks-alpha-jet-plan-54907/ "Thailand wants F-16s and shrinks Alpha Jet plan."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803112705/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/thailand-wants-f-16s-and-shrinks-alpha-jet-plan-54907/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 11 August 1999.</ref> while the British [[Defence Evaluation and Research Agency]] obtained 12 as chase aircraft and flight test platforms due to a shortage in available [[BAE Systems Hawk]] aircraft for the role.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-buys-ex-german-air-force-alpha-jets-55092/ "UK buys ex-German air force Alpha Jets."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803103742/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-buys-ex-german-air-force-alpha-jets-55092/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 18 August 1999.</ref>

Germany was keen to sell the retired Alpha Jets quickly since they were reported as costing around DM100,000 ($55,000) to keep in storage each month.<ref name = "thai buy"/> Fairchild-Dornier received a US$43 million contract to refurbish a number of the aircraft and provide support to the end users. Apparently 32 more, including two spares hulks, were sold to the [[United Arab Emirates]], though details are unclear.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uae-closes-on-alpha-jet-purchase-58802/ "UAE closes on Alpha Jet purchase."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803100428/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uae-closes-on-alpha-jet-purchase-58802/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 24 November 1999.</ref> Several were also  sold to private owners, such as those used by the Austrian-based ''Flying Bulls'' flight demonstration team, which flies a range of classic aircraft.<ref name = "flying bulls">[http://www.flyingbulls.at/en/fleet/alpha-jet/ "Alpha Jet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611003616/http://www.flyingbulls.at/en/fleet/alpha-jet/ |date=2016-06-11 }} ''The Flying Bulls'', Retrieved: 30 May 2016.</ref>

===Nigeria===
[[File:Nigerian Air Force Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jet Iwelumo-2.jpg|thumb|Nigerian Alpha Jet at [[Old Kaduna Airport]], [[Kaduna State]], Nigeria, 2012]]
In 1990, four Alpha Jets of the [[Nigerian Air Force]] were deployed in support of [[Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group]] (ECOMOG) forces stationed in [[Liberia]], which were engaged in combat with the [[National Patriotic Front of Liberia]] (NPFL) following an international intervention in the [[First Liberian Civil War|Liberian Civil War]]. In a series of strikes, these aircraft targeted and launched successful attacks upon [[Charles Taylor (Liberian politician)|Charles Taylor]]'s HQ, rebel convoys and shipping, and gun emplacements at [[Roberts International Airport]]; the results of their intervention was judged by ''[[The New York Times]]'' to have given ECOMOG forces a decisive advantage in fire power.<ref name = "ECOMOG">{{cite journal|title=ECOMOG Air Operations During The Liberian Civil War. An Official Overview of the Early Phases; 1,000 Sorties Flown October 1992-July 1993|journal=Defense Studies Journal|date=1996|issue=Special Issue on ECOMOG|url=https://beegeagle.wordpress.com/2012/08/30/ecomog-air-operations-during-the-liberian-civil-war-a-brief-overview/|access-date=2016-01-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304211203/https://beegeagle.wordpress.com/2012/08/30/ecomog-air-operations-during-the-liberian-civil-war-a-brief-overview/|archive-date=2016-03-04|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[https://www.hrw.org/reports/1993/liberia/ "Waging War to Keep the Peace: The ECOMOG Intervention and Human Rights."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160621094806/https://www.hrw.org/reports/1993/liberia/ |date=2016-06-21 }} ''Human Rights Watch'', June 1993. Volume 5, Issue No. 6.</ref>

In 1992, six Nigerian Alpha Jets were placed directly under ECOMOG command, and employed against the NPLF in an extensive campaign of air strikes, road interdictions missions, anti-shipping sorties, and night raids (a task which the Alpha Jet was not normally equipped to perform).  They were even employed to deny access to key bridges in order to give ECOMOG ground forces time to capture them before they were sabotaged. In total, Alpha Jets flew approximately 3,000 combat missions in support of ECOMOG, sustaining no losses but incurring some damage from anti-aircraft artillery.<ref name = "ECOMOG"/><ref>Adebajo 2002, p. 82.</ref>

In 2013, Nigeria began taking steps to bring its Alpha Jet fleet back into service, upgrading 13 of the original 24 into serviceable condition, due to an urgent need for strike aircraft to participate in air support missions for [[counterinsurgency]] operations against [[Boko Haram]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Photo Newsreel: Nigerian Air Force Reinduct 9 Alpha Jets and a C130 Hercules|url=https://beegeagle.wordpress.com/2013/11/30/photo-newsreel-nigerian-air-force-reinduct-9-alpha-jet-and-a-c130-hercules/|website=Beegeagle's Blog|date=30 November 2013|access-date=1 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309234707/https://beegeagle.wordpress.com/2013/11/30/photo-newsreel-nigerian-air-force-reinduct-9-alpha-jet-and-a-c130-hercules/|archive-date=9 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> In March 2016, Nigerian car manufacturer [[Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing]] (IVM) signed a supply agreement with the Nigerian Air Force to produce components and various spare parts for the Alpha Jet.<ref>Monks, Kieron. [https://edition.cnn.com/2016/03/23/africa/innoson-nigeria-jet-parts/ "Nigeria's first car maker takes to the skies in fighter jets."]  ''CNN'', 30 March 2016.</ref><ref>Karls Tsokar, Abuja. [http://guardian.ng/news/local-firm-produces-spare-parts-for-naf-fighter-pharmacist/ "Local firm produces spare parts for NAF fighter Pharmacist."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160813042545/http://guardian.ng/news/local-firm-produces-spare-parts-for-naf-fighter-pharmacist/ |date=2016-08-13 }} ''The Guardian'', 11 February 2016.</ref> In 2015, Nigeria ordered four additional aircraft from the United States; these aircraft had been de-militarized and prepared for civilian operations, however Nigeria had reportedly returned two of these to an unspecified armed configuration by early 2016.<ref>Binnie, Jeremy. [http://www.janes.com/article/57499/nigeria-re-militarises-two-alpha-jets "Nigeria re-militarises two Alpha Jets."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160302170606/http://www.janes.com/article/57499/nigeria-re-militarises-two-alpha-jets |date=2016-03-02 }} ''IHS Jane's Defence Weekly'', 27 January 2016.</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Nigerian Air Force receiving additional Alpha Jets|url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=38540:nigerian-air-force-receiving-additional-alpha-jets&catid=35:Aerospace&Itemid=107|website=DefenseWeb|date = 26 March 2015|access-date=1 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131171029/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=38540:nigerian-air-force-receiving-additional-alpha-jets&catid=35:Aerospace&Itemid=107|archive-date=31 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Mutum, Ronald. [http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/news/general/air-force-refits-training-aircraft-for-combat-mission/130763.html "Air Force refits training aircraft for combat mission."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160722072157/http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/news/general/air-force-refits-training-aircraft-for-combat-mission/130763.html |date=2016-07-22 }} ''Daily Trust'', 26 January 2016.</ref>

The restored Alpha Jet force has been routinely employed in combat air patrols, and has conducted multiple air strikes against Boko Haram militants over a number of years. In September 2014, multiple Alpha Jets conducted a large number of aerial bombardment missions over and around the area of [[Bama, Nigeria|Bama]], [[Borno State]], during the fight to regain the city following the withdrawal of friendly ground forces.<ref>[http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/168114-nigeria-military-aircraft-bombing-boko-haram-missing.html "Nigeria military aircraft bombing Boko Haram missing."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160601024049/http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/168114-nigeria-military-aircraft-bombing-boko-haram-missing.html |date=2016-06-01 }} ''Premium Times'', 14 September 2014.</ref> In early October 2014, Boko Haram released a video containing the [[decapitation]] of who they claimed was a captured Nigerian Air Force pilot of a downed Alpha Jet.<ref>[http://africanspotlight.com/2014/10/05/video-boko-haram-terrorists-behead-nigerian-airforce-pilot-viewers-discretion/ "VIDEO: Boko Haram terrorists behead Nigerian Airforce Pilot (Viewer's discretion)."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160806100053/http://africanspotlight.com/2014/10/05/video-boko-haram-terrorists-behead-nigerian-airforce-pilot-viewers-discretion/ |date=2016-08-06 }} ''African Spotlight'', 5 October 2014.</ref> In March 2016, attacks performed by Nigerian Alpha Jets had reportedly dislodged Boko Haram fighters from [[Sambisa Forest]], [[Borno State]].<ref>Lauya, Adbul. [http://www.authorityngr.com/2016/03/NAF-Alpha-jets-dislodge-Boko-Haram-terrorists-from-Sambisa-forest "NAF Alpha jets dislodge Boko Haram terrorists from Sambisa forest."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021045544/http://www.authorityngr.com/2016/03/NAF-Alpha-jets-dislodge-Boko-Haram-terrorists-from-Sambisa-forest |date=2016-10-21 }} ''The Authority'', 26 March 2016.</ref>

On 31 March 2021, a Nigerian Air Force Alpha jet (NAF475) went missing near [[Borno State]] in northeastern Nigeria while carrying out air support for Nigerian troops fighting against Boko Haram, both pilots were missing,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Lionel|first=Ekene|date=April 1, 2021|title=Nigerian air force alpha jet lost during counter terror operations|url=https://www.africanmilitaryblog.com/2021/04/nigerian-air-force-alpha-jet-lost-during-counter-terror-operations|url-status=live|website=Military Africa|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210401150436/https://www.africanmilitaryblog.com/2021/04/nigerian-air-force-alpha-jet-lost-during-counter-terror-operations |archive-date=2021-04-01 }}</ref> presumed dead. A video was released claiming to show the jet being shot down, however the video was evidently doctored including previous clips from Syria. The Nigerian Air Force attributed the crash to an accident, pending further investigation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/nigerian-air-force-says-missing-alpha-jet-was-not-shot-down|title = Nigerian Air Force says missing Alpha Jet was not shot down| date=5 April 2021 }}</ref> However the video showed Boko Haram fighters at the crash site and remains of the pilots.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2021/04/03/africa/nigeria-military-plane-reports-intl/index.html|title = Blast in video of purported shootdown of Nigerian military plane is fake, analysis shows| date=3 April 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/pidgin/media-56613253|title = Nigerian Airforce say no be Boko Haram shoot down Alpha Jet aircraft wey crash|newspaper = BBC News Pidgin}}</ref>

On 18 July 2021, in a rare occurrence of a military jet downed by a criminal organization, an Alpha jet was shot down after conducting an interdiction mission on the border of the states of Zamfara and Kaduna against criminal gangs.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Lionel|first=Ekene|date=21 July 2020|title=Military Africa|url=https://www.africanmilitaryblog.com/2021/07/nigerian-air-force-lose-another-alpha-jet-pilot-rescued|url-status=live|website=Military Africa|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720074909/https://www.africanmilitaryblog.com/2021/07/nigerian-air-force-lose-another-alpha-jet-pilot-rescued |archive-date=2021-07-20 }}</ref> The military blamed intense fire from armed gangs for the shoot down. The pilot ejected and returned to an Army base, after evading capture.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ewokor|first=Chris|date= |title=Nigeria fighter plane shot down by bandits - military|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-57893662|work=[[BBC]]|location= |access-date=19 July 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.africanmilitaryblog.com/2021/07/nigerian-air-force-lose-another-alpha-jet-pilot-rescued|title=Nigerian Air Force lose another Alpha Jet, pilot rescued|date=20 July 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://dailytrust.com/ali-kachalla-unveiling-the-zamfara-terror-kingpin-who-downed-naf-jet|title = Ali Kachalla: Unveiling the Zamfara terror kingpin who downed NAF jet|date = 2 August 2021}}</ref>

===Belgium===
[[File:Belgium Air Force Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jet 1B Lofting-1.jpg|thumb|A Belgium Air Force Alpha Jet 1B at [[Beauvechain Air Base]], Belgium, 2004]]
On 13 September 1973, the Belgian defence minister announced that 33 Alpha Jets had been ordered in two batches of 16 and 17 aircraft.<ref name = "lamb 265"/> These aircraft were given the designation ''Alpha Jet 1B'', the assembly work being performed by Belgian aircraft manufacturer [[SABCA]]. Deliveries took place between 1978 and 1980.<ref name = "flight 1978"/> By April 1981, the Belgian Air Force had reportedly accumulated 10,000 flight hours on their 33 Alpha Jets during training operations.<ref name = "bel train 1981"/> The introduction of the Alpha Jet led to the retirement of Belgium's [[Fouga CM.170 Magister]] fleet; changes to the training syllabus included the adoption of a new discipline, ''combined flight'', as well as a greater use of [[flight simulator]]s.<ref name = "bel train 1981">[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%201091.html "Belgian Air Force Alpha Jet training."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803145212/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%201091.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 18 April 1981. p. 1109.</ref>

During the late 1990s and 2000s, SABCA performed a number of upgrades on the Belgian aircraft to the ''Alpha Jet 1B+'' configuration; improvements made included the addition of a laser-gyro [[inertial navigation]] system, a [[GPS]] receiver, a [[Head-up display|HUD]] in the front cockpit and a HUD repeater in the rear, a video recorder and other more minor improvements.<ref>Penny, Stewart. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/belgium-updates-alpha-jet-fleet-57861/ "Belgium updates Alpha Jet fleet."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803142800/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/belgium-updates-alpha-jet-fleet-57861/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 3 November 1999.</ref> In 2000, the initial Alpha Jet 1B+ was re-delivered to the Belgian Air Force.

The Alpha Jet was phased out in 2019. The next year 25 airframes and several spare parts were sold to the Canadian company [[Top Aces]] which provides adversary air combat training.[https://skiesmag.com/news/top-aces-acquires-belgian-alpha-jets/ Top Aces acquires 25 Belgian Air Force Alpha Jets]

===Egypt===
On 17 September 1978, Dassault and the [[Arab Organization for Industrialization]] (AOI) signed a license manufacturing agreement for the Alpha Jet; at the time, it was projected that up to 160 Alpha Jets would be domestically produced in [[Helwan]], [[Egypt]].<ref name = "flight 1978"/> Shortly thereafter, Egypt placed an initial order for 30 aircraft, designated ''Alpha Jet MS1'', which were to a standard trainer configuration. Four complete aircraft were directly supplied from Dassault's facility in France, while the remaining 26 of the order were domestically assembled in Egypt using knockdown kits by AOI.<ref name = "helwan 1983">[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%202198.html "Egypt rolls out Gazelle and receives Alpha Jets."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803121726/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%202198.html |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 10 December 1983, p. 1518.</ref>

During the early 1980s, an additional 15 aircraft, designated ''Alpha Jet MS2'', were ordered. The Alpha Jet MS2 bore high levels of similarity to Dassault's proposed ''Alpha Jet NGEA'', featuring a [[Sagem]]-built Uliss 81 nav/attack system, a [[Thomson-CSF]]-built laser [[Rangefinding telemeter|rangefinder]] and HUD, along with a digital multiplex [[Bus (computing)|databus]].<ref name = "helwan 1983"/> The Egyptian Air Force Alpha Jets were based at As Salahiya airbase in 308 (Close Air Support) Tactical Wing with 57 Squadron and 58 Squadron. In 2015 the 308 CAS Tactical Wing moved with both squadrons to El Mansoura airbase for ground attack training. The Egyptian Air Force used the Alpha Jet MS1 fleet to replace the [[Aero L-29 Delfín]] and [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15]] in the trainer role, while the later-built MS2 standard aircraft served to replace the [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17]] in the ground-attack role.<ref name = "helwan 1983"/> In February 2000, Egypt was reportedly seeking to replace their Alpha Jet fleet, and was investigating several options, including the [[BAE Systems Hawk]].<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/egypt-shops-in-china-for-trainer-62658/ "Egypt shops in China for trainer."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803100635/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/egypt-shops-in-china-for-trainer-62658/ |date=2016-08-03 }} ''Flight International'', 29 February 2000.</ref>

===Civilian service===
[[File:Alphajet-N88XA-071206-02-12.jpg|thumb|An Alpha Jet imported by Abbatare lands at the [[Mojave Airport]]]]
Swiss firm [[RUAG|RUAG Aviation]] offers full support services for the Alpha Jet in cooperation with Dassault Aviation; services provided includes recommissioning, servicing, inspections, system upgrades integration work, along with technical and logistic support.<ref>[http://www.ruag.com/aviation/military-aviation-de/alpha-jet/ "Training aircraft services for Alpha Jet."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160627214440/http://www.ruag.com/aviation/military-aviation-de/alpha-jet/ |date=2016-06-27 }} ''RUAG'', Retrieved: 30 May 2016.</ref> Abbatare Inc. of [[Arlington, Washington]], under the name of "Alpha Jets USA", has imported a number of Alpha Jets into the United States, the firm modifies and sells individual aircraft in the civilian market.<ref>[http://alphajetsusa.com/index.htm "Alpha Jets."] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081008083102/http://alphajetsusa.com/index.htm |date=October 8, 2008 }} ''Alpha Jets USA.'' Retrieved: 17 July 2012.</ref>

Canadian aviation specialist [[Top Aces]] operates a fleet of [[Douglas A-4 Skyhawk]]s and Alpha Jets as adversary aircraft in air combat training exercises; these are often operated under contract for various military clients.<ref>David, Donald. [http://www.janes.com/article/51799/supersonic-aggressors-for-hire-can2015d2 "Supersonic aggressors for hire &#91;CAN2015D2&#93;."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160604104115/http://www.janes.com/article/51799/supersonic-aggressors-for-hire-can2015d2 |date=2016-06-04 }} ''IHS Jane's 360'', 28 May 2015.</ref> Multiple civil aerial display teams have procured Alpha Jets, such as the ''Flying Bulls'' and ''Mustang High Flight Aerobatics'' teams.<ref name = "flying bulls"/><ref>[http://www.mustanghighflight.com/ "Classic Aerobatics for your Airshow!"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160506042246/http://www.mustanghighflight.com/ |date=2016-05-06 }} ''Mustang High Flight Aerobatics'', Retrieved: 30 May 2016.</ref> H211, a private company which manages the planes owned and leased by [[Google]] execs [[Larry Page]], [[Sergey Brin]], and [[Eric Schmidt]], operates a single Alpha Jet, based at [[NASA]]'s [[Ames Research Center]] in Mountain View, California. It is reportedly equipped with scientific instrumentation and used for research purposes.<ref>Helft, Miguel. [http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/23/a-new-fighter-jet-for-googles-founders/?_r=0 "A New (Fighter) Jet for Google's Founders?."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909220923/http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/23/a-new-fighter-jet-for-googles-founders/?_r=0 |date=2015-09-09 }} ''The New York Times'', 23 October 2008.</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2013/dec/12/nasa-fuel-saves-google-execs-millions-private-jet-flights|title=Google execs saved millions on private jet flights using cheaper NASA fuel|access-date=12 Dec 2013|date=12 December 2013|author=Alex Hern|newspaper=The Guardian|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131212211343/http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2013/dec/12/nasa-fuel-saves-google-execs-millions-private-jet-flights|archive-date=12 December 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>

Commencing in the third quarter of 2017, Air Affairs Australia and [[Discovery Air]] will provide three Alpha Jets to the [[Australian Defence Force]] for [[Australian Army]] attack controller training and anti-surface training (simulating sea-skimming missiles) for the [[Royal Australian Navy]]. They will be based at [[RAAF Base Williamtown]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/03/air-affairs-to-provide-three-alpha-jets-for-adf-training/|title=Air Affairs to provide three Alpha Jets for ADF training|publisher=Australian Aviation |date= 3 March 2017|access-date=3 March 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302132156/http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/03/air-affairs-to-provide-three-alpha-jets-for-adf-training/|archive-date=2 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Others===
Considerable foreign sales were expected for the Alpha Jet, with the type becoming available before its main rival, the United Kingdom's [[BAE Systems Hawk]]. The two types, being relatively similar in role and specifications, ended up competing for many of the same contracts. This competition led to an aviation commentator stating of the two aircraft:
{{Quotation |What Europe must avoid is the kind of wasteful competition that has the [[Hawker Siddeley Hawk]] and Dassault-Breguet/Dornier Alpha Jet battling against each other in the world market. |John W. R. Taylor|Jane's All the World's Aircraft 1975–1976<ref name= j75>Taylor 1976, p. 63.</ref>}}

Several other nations also obtained the Alpha Jet E, including the Ivory Coast (seven aircraft), Morocco (24), Nigeria (24), Qatar (six) and Togo (five). All of these machines were from French production except for the 24 Nigerian aircraft, which were from German production.

Between 1979 and 1981, the [[Royal Moroccan Air Force]] received 24 Alpha Jets which were organized into a training squadron and a [[Counter-insurgency|COIN]] squadron both based in [[Meknes]]. Alpha Jets were employed in strike missions against the [[Polisario Front]] during the [[Western Sahara War]], one of their number being shot down in December, 1985.<ref>{{cite web|last=Cooper|first= Tom |title=Morocco, Mauritania & West Sahara since 1972|url= http://www.acig.info/CMS/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=228&Itemid=1 |publisher= ACIG |access-date= 1 January 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160304090030/http://www.acig.info/CMS/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=228&Itemid=1 |archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status= live}}</ref>

==Variants==
[[File:Alpha Jet dos Asas de portugal.JPG|thumb|[[Portuguese Air Force]] Alpha Jet A of the [[Asas de Portugal]] flight display team]]
[[File:AlphaJet-e47.jpg|thumb|[[French Air Force]] Alpha Jet E]]
* '''{{Visible anchor|Alpha Jet A}}''': Attack version originally used by Germany.
* '''{{visible anchor|Alpha Jet E}}''': Trainer version originally used by France and Belgium.
* '''Alpha Jet 2''': Development of the Alpha Jet E optimized for ground attack. This version was originally named the ''Alpha Jet NGAE'' (''Nouvelle Generation Appui/Ecole'' or "New Generation Attack/Training"),
* '''Alpha Jet MS1''': Close support-capable version assembled in Egypt.
* '''Alpha Jet MS2''': Improved version with new avionics, an uprated engine, Magic Air-to-Air missiles, and a Lancier [[glass cockpit]].
* '''Alpha Jet ATS''' (Advanced Training System): A version fitted with multi-functional controls and a glass cockpit that will train pilots in the use of navigation and attack systems of the latest and future generation fighter aircraft. This version was also called the ''Alpha Jet 3'' or ''Lancier''.
* '''Alpha Jet Al-Ghait''':  A single Moroccan Alpha Jet E modified with a [[Sperry Corporation|Sperry]]/[[Honeywell Primus]] 300SL [[weather radar]]; known as ''Al-Ghait'' (''The Rain'').<ref>{{cite web |title=Raining champions of the Arab world |url=https://www.timesaerospace.aero/features/defence/raining-champions-of-the-arab-world |website=Times Aerospace |publisher=Times Aerospace Publishing Ltd. |access-date=26 June 2022 |ref=TA}}</ref> and an AN/ALE-40 [[Chaff (countermeasure)|chaff]]-[[Flare (countermeasure)|flare]] dispenser, modified for [[cloud seeding]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Jackson |first1=Kevin |title=Airshow Review – Marrakech Airshow 2014 |url=https://www.globalaviationresource.com/v2/2014/05/13/airshow-review-marrakech-airshow-2014/ |website=Global Aviation Resource |date=13 May 2014 |access-date=26 June 2022 |ref=GAR}}</ref>
* '''B.J.7''': ({{langx|th|บ.จ.๑}}) Thai designation for the Alpha Jet A.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Thai Military Aircraft Designations |url=https://designation-systems.net/non-us/thailand.html |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=designation-systems.net}}</ref>

==Operators==
;{{CMR}}
* [[Cameroon Air Force]] (Alpha Jet MS2) – 27 (12 are in service)
;{{CAN}} [[File:alpha jet zj646 arp.jpg|thumb|A [[QinetiQ]]-operated Alpha Jet A]]
* [[Top Aces]] – 30 Alpha Jet A (former Luftwaffe and Qinetic Aircraft) based in Montreal. With 19 operating as airborne training assets under contract to the Canadian Forces and Bundeswehr. Including use as an electronic warfare platform in cooperation with Engility and [[414 Squadron]].<ref name="Top Aces" /> Also 25 Alpha Jet E acquired from Belgium.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://skiesmag.com/news/top-aces-acquires-belgian-alpha-jets/|title=Top Aces acquires 25 Belgian Air Force Alpha Jets}}</ref> 
;{{EGY}}
* [[Egypt Air Force]] (Alpha Jet MS2 and E) – 14 MS2 and 40 E (MS1), All upgraded to (MS2)
;{{FRA}}
* [[French Air and Space Force]] (Alpha Jet E) – 16 in 2025 (all for [[Patrouille de France]])
;{{MAR}}
* [[Royal Moroccan Air Force]] (Alpha Jet E) – 24
;{{NGR}}
* [[Nigerian Air Force]] (Alpha Jet E) – 24 acquired. 4 upgraded in 2011, 9 more reactivated. 11 in service.
[[File:Alfa.jpg|thumb|A [[Portuguese Air Force]] Alpha Jet with commemorative livery of 103 Squadron's 50th anniversary]]
[[File:Alpha Jet - RIAT 2008 (3160630447).jpg|thumb|An Alpha Jet at the 2008 [[Royal International Air Tattoo]] (RIAT)]]
;{{QAT}}
* [[Qatar Emiri Air Force]] (Alpha Jet E) – six
;{{THA}}
* [[Royal Thai Air Force]] (19 Alpha Jet A – former ''Luftwaffe'' aircraft)
[[File:Royal Thai Air Force Alpha Jet in 2013.jpg|thumb|A Royal Thai Air Force Alpha Jet in 2013]]
;{{TOG}}
* [[Military of Togo|Togo Air Force]] – 5 (Alpha Jet E)

===Former operators===
;{{AUS}}
* [[Top Aces|Air Affairs/Top Aces]] - 3 (Former ''Luftwaffe'' Alpha Jet A) provided by Top Aces. Operated in support of Australian Defence Force training.<ref name="Top Aces">{{Cite web |url=http://www.topaces.com/ |title=Top Aces |access-date=2019-06-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423224117/https://topaces.com/ |archive-date=2019-04-23 |url-status=live }}</ref>
;{{BEL}}
* [[Belgian Air Component]] (Alpha Jet E) – 33 acquired in 1978, phased out 2019. Last remaining 25 sold to Top Aces
;{{GER}}
* [[German Air Force]] – 93 (Alpha Jet A)
;{{CIV}}
* [[Air Force of Ivory Coast|Côte d'Ivoire Air Force]] – 7 (Alpha Jet E)
;{{POR}}
* [[Portuguese Air Force]] – 50 (Alpha Jet A, former ''Luftwaffe'' aircraft) acquired 1993. Retired 13 January 2018.<ref>Mata 2017, pp. 87–89.</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Barreira|first1=Victor|title=Portugal to phase out Alpha Jet A|url=http://www.janes.com/article/75823/|website=IHS Jane's 360|access-date=20 November 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171120202408/http://www.janes.com/article/75823/portugal-to-phase-out-alpha-jet-a|archive-date=20 November 2017|date=20 November 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|title=Portugal retires its Alpha Jets|magazine=Air International|date=March 2018|page=16|issn=0306-5634}}</ref>
;{{UK}}
* [[QinetiQ]] – (Alpha Jet A) 12 former ''Luftwaffe'' aircraft - retired 31 January 2018.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Harding|first=Ian|title=Alpha Jet retires|magazine=[[Air International]]|date=March 2018|page=21|issn=0306-5634}}</ref> Of these 12, only 6 flew. Whole fleet sold to Top Aces 

==Specifications (Close-support version)==
[[File:Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jet 3-view line drawing.svg|thumb|Orthographic projection of the Alpha Jet]]
{{externalimage
|topic=Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet cutaway
|width=
|float=right
|image1=[http://www.flightglobal.com/imagearchive/Image.aspx?GalleryName=Cutaways/Military%20Aviation/Military%20Aviation%201946-2006&Image=Dornier-Alfa-Jet Hi-res cutaway of the Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet] by [[Flight Global]]
}}
{{Aircraft specs
|ref=''Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1982-83,<ref name="Janes 82 p105-6">Taylor 1982, pp. 105–106.</ref> and Flight International<ref name = "lamb 266"/>''
|prime units?=met
<!--
        General characteristics
-->
|crew=2
|length m=13.23
|length note=
|span m=9.11
|span note=
|height m=4.19
|height note=
|wing area sqm=17.5
|wing area note=
|aspect ratio=4.8
|airfoil=<!--'''root:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA ]]; '''tip:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA ]]<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1=Lednicer |first1=David |title=The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url=https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website=m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date=16 April 2019}}</ref>-->
|empty weight kg=3515
|empty weight note=
|gross weight kg=5000
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight kg=7500
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity={{cvt|1520|kg|0}}<ref>with a further {{cvt|500|kg|0}} in 2x {{cvt|310|L|USgal impgal}} drop tanks</ref>
|more general=
<!--
        Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 name=[[SNECMA Turbomeca Larzac]] 04-C5
|eng1 type=[[turbofan]] engines
|eng1 kn=13.24
|eng1 note=
<!--
        Performance
-->
|max speed kmh=1000
|max speed note=at sea level<ref>M0.85 at {{cvt|10000|m}}</ref>
|cruise speed note=
|stall speed kmh=167
|stall speed note=(flaps and undercarriage down)
:::: {{cvt|216|km/h|mph kn}} (flaps and undercarriage up)
|never exceed speed kmh=
|never exceed speed note=
|minimum control speed kmh=
|minimum control speed note=
|range km=
|range note=
|combat range km=610
|combat range note=lo-lo-lo profile, gun pod, underwing weapons and two drop tanks
::::{{cvt|1095|km|mi nmi}} hi-lo-hi profile, gun pod, underwing weapons and two drop tanks
|ferry range km=2940
|ferry range note=with 2x {{cvt|310|L|USgal impgal}} droptanks
|endurance=(internal fuel only) 2 hours 30 minutes at low altitude; 3 hours 30 minutes at high altitude
|ceiling m=14630
|ceiling note=
|g limits=+12 / -6.4 (ultimate)
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|climb rate ms=57
|climb rate note=max<ref>{{cvt|5.5|m/s|ft/min}} on one engine at sea level at {{cvt|4782|kg|0}} in landing configuration</ref>
|time to altitude={{cvt|9145|m|-2}} in less than 7 minutes
|wing loading kg/m2=
|wing loading note=
|fuel consumption kg/km=
|thrust/weight=
|more performance=<br />
*'''Landing speed:''' {{cvt|170|km/h|mph kn}}
*'''Take-off run:''' {{cvt|410|m}}
*'''Landing run:''' {{cvt|610|m}}
<!--
        Armament
-->
|guns=One 27 mm [[Mauser BK-27]] cannon in centreline gun pack with 150 rounds or one 30 mm [[DEFA cannon]] in centreline pod with 150 rounds
|hardpoint rockets=Two Matra rocket pods with eighteen [[SNEB]] 68 mm rockets each or two [[CRV7]] rocket pods with nineteen 70 mm rockets each
|hardpoint missiles=Two [[AIM-9 Sidewinder]]s; two [[R550 Magic|Matra Magic IIs]]; two [[AGM-65 Maverick]]s
|hardpoints=5
|hardpoint capacity={{cvt|2500|kg|0}}
|hardpoint bombs= a variety of bombs (such as the [[BL755|Hunting BL755]] [[cluster bomb]])
|hardpoint other=Two {{cvt|310|L|USgal impgal}} [[Drop tank]]s
|avionics=
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{External media|topic= |width=18% |float=right |video1=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kWPzG1cREk Red Bull Alpha Jet performing an aerial display over Athens, Greece, in 2013] |video2=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOdc3UP1Ujc Extensive footage of German Alpha Jet operations in the early 1990s] |video3=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lf564hf3dEo Guided tour of the cockpit of an Alpha Jet]}}
{{aircontent
|see also=
* [[EADS Mako/HEAT]]
|related=
* [[FMA IA-63 Pampa]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Aermacchi S-211]]
* [[Aero L-39 Albatros]]
* [[BAE Hawk]]
* [[CASA C-101]]
* [[IAR-99]]
* [[Hongdu JL-8]]
* [[Kawasaki T-4]]
* [[Mitsubishi T-2]]
* [[PZL I-22 Iryda]]
* [[Soko G-4 Super Galeb]]
}}

==References==

===Notes===
{{Reflist|30em}}

===Bibliography===
* Adebajo, Adekeye. ''Building Peace in West Africa: Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea-Bissau''. Lynne Rienner Publishers, 2002. {{ISBN|1-5882-6077-1}}.
* Braybrook, Roy. "Training Maturity". ''[[Air International]]'',  Vol. 26, No. 6, June 1984, pp.&nbsp;269–276, 312–313. Bromley, UK: Fine Scroll. ISSN 0306-5634.
*Cuny, Jean and Pierre Leyvastre. ''Les Avions Breguet (1940/1971)''. Paris: Editions Larivière, 1977. DOCAVIA vol. 6. OCLC 440863702
* Eden, Paul, ed. ''The Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft''. London: Amber Books, 2004. {{ISBN|1-904687-84-9}}.
*{{citation |url=http://airvectors.net/avalpha.html |title=The Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jet & FMA Pampa |date=1 April 2020 |first= Greg |last=Goebel  |website=AirVectors}}
* Kocs, Stephen A. ''Autonomy Or Power?: The Franco-German Relationship and Europe's Strategic Choices, 1955-1995''. Greenwood Publishing Group, 1995. {{ISBN|0-2759-4890-0}}.
* Lambert, Mark. [https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1974/1974%20-%200294.html "Alpha Jet: The co-operative trainer/attack aircraft."] ''Flight International'', 28 February 1974. pp.&nbsp;264–267, 277.
* Mata, Paulo. "Last Days". ''Air International'', Vol. 93, No. 1, July 2017, pp.&nbsp;86–89. {{ISSN|0306-5634}}.
* Michta, Andrew A. ''The Soldier-Citizen: The Politics of the Polish Army after Communism''. Springer, 2016. {{ISBN|1-3496-1596-X}}.
* Stijger, Eric. "Alpha Jets for Portugal". ''[[Air International]]'',  Vol. 46, No. 3, March 1994, pp.&nbsp;128–131. Stamford, UK: Key Publishing. ISSN 0306-5634.
* [[John W. R. Taylor|Taylor, John W R]] (ed). ''Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1982-83''. London: Jane's Yearbooks, 1982. {{ISBN|0-7106-0748-2}}.

==Further reading==
*{{cite book |last1=Lacaze |first1=Henri |title=Les avions Louis Breguet Paris|volume=2: le règne du monoplan |date=2016 |location=Le Vigen, France |isbn=978-2-914017-89-3 |language=fr|trans-title=The Aircraft of Louis Breguet, Paris}}

==External links==
{{Commons}}
{{vectorsite}}

{{Dassault aircraft}}
{{Dornier aircraft}}
{{Thai attack aircraft designations}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Dassault Dornier Alpha Jet}}
[[Category:Dassault aircraft|Alpha Jet]]
[[Category:Dornier aircraft|Alpha Jet]]
[[Category:1970s international attack aircraft]]
[[Category:1970s international military trainer aircraft]]
[[Category:Twinjets]]
[[Category:High-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1973]]
[[Category:France–Germany military relations]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear]]