France sends advanced Mirage jets to bolster Ukraine's air power
The French media reports that several Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets will arrive in Ukraine by January. These aircraft, specially modified for the ongoing war, will be the second NATO combat aircraft delivered to Ukrainian aviation after the F-16.
Initial information about the potential deployment of French fighter jets to Ukraine emerged in 2023. However, it wasn't until October 2024 that the preparation for such a transfer was officially confirmed by authorities in Paris. By December 2024, the training of Ukrainian pilots on operating Mirage 2000-5F was completed.
Mirage 2000-5F jets will soon reach Ukraine
The Avions Legendaires portal reports that by January 20, three Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets will arrive in Ukraine. Eventually, there will be over a dozen of these jets present at the front. Alongside the F-16 fighters already supplied to Ukraine, they will be the most advanced combat aircraft in Ukrainian aviation.
The Mirage 2000 is a single-engine multirole fighter developed by Dassault Aviation, known for its distinctive delta wing. The aircraft measures over 15 metres in length and has a wingspan of approximately 9 metres, with the capability to operate at an altitude of 18,900 metres. The Mirage 2000-5F is a significant modernization, introduced into service in 1991, featuring an advanced cockpit and improved weapon systems.
French fighter jets for Ukraine have been modified
The Ukrainians will additionally receive modified Mirage 2000-5F jets. French designers have implemented changes that allow for the use of more types of weaponry, providing Ukrainian pilots greater capabilities during attacks on Russian positions.
The Mirage 2000-5F transferred to Ukraine will be able to carry, among others, French AASM glide bombs, with which Ukrainians already have experience, and modern Mica air-to-air missiles. Additionally, these fighters will be capable of transporting long-range cruise missiles SCALP-EG and Storm Shadow, delivered by France and the United Kingdom respectively.
The best French weaponry in Ukraine
Avions Legendaires notes that the transfer of Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets to Ukraine results from extensive negotiations between Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelensky.
The Mirage 2000-5F jets will be among the most valuable French weapons at the front in Ukraine, alongside the aforementioned long-range cruise missiles SCALP-EG, as well as Caesar self-propelled howitzers appreciated by artillerymen and AMX-10RC vehicles.
