Mirage III-R

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The Dassault Mirage III-R is a dedicated reconnaissance variant of the successful French Mirage IIIE supersonic delta-wing fighter, first flying in 1961. It replaced the radar-equipped nose of the fighter with a camera suite for tactical/strategic reconnaissance while maintaining Mach 2+ speed and Atar 9C engine performance. It served with the French Air Force and multiple export customers. 
 
Key Historical Aspects of the Mirage III-R:
Origin and Development: Developed in the late 1950s by Dassault Aviation, the "R" (Reconnaissance) was designed to replace subsonic reconnaissance planes, with the prototype flying in 1961.
Design Features: The nose was modified to hold several cameras for high and low-altitude photo missions. Unlike the IIIE interceptor, the IIIR typically lacked the Cyrano radar but retained the ability to carry external fuel tanks, missiles, and bombs, making it a versatile photo-strike aircraft.
Operational Service: The type entered service with the French Air Force in the early 1960s.
Variants:
Mirage IIIR: Initial reconnaissance version for France.
Mirage IIIRD: Improved version featuring a radar in the nose for reconnaissance (using the RD nose) and better avionics, including a Doppler radar.
Mirage IIIRS: Specialized version for Switzerland, featuring a stronger airframe, American avionics, and a highly versatile camera system.
Export and Legacy: Beyond France, the IIIR/RD was exported to nations such as Israel, Pakistan, and Switzerland. In Switzerland, the IIIRS served from 1967 until 2003.