French Mirage jets bolster Ukraine's air combat power
The French media reports that several Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets will arrive in Ukraine by January. These jets, specially modified for the ongoing war, will be the second set of NATO combat aircraft delivered to Ukrainian aviation, following the F-16.
Initial information about the potential deployment of French fighter jets to Ukraine emerged back in 2023. However, the preparation for such a transfer was officially confirmed by authorities in Paris only in October 2024. By December 2024, training Ukrainian pilots to operate the 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. Ultimately, over a dozen of these jets will be deployed at the front. Alongside the F-16 fighters already supplied to Ukraine, they will be among the most advanced combat aircraft in Ukrainian aviation.
The Mirage 2000 is a single-engine multirole fighter developed by Dassault Aviation, notable for its distinctive delta wing. It measures over 49 feet in length with a wingspan of about 30 feet, and it can operate at altitudes up to 62,000 feet. The Mirage 2000-5F, introduced into service in 1991, is one of the most significant modernizations and includes a more advanced cockpit and improved weapon systems.
French fighter jets for Ukraine have been modified
The Ukrainians will receive modified Mirage 2000-5F jets. French designers have implemented changes that allow for the use of more types of weaponry, giving Ukrainian pilots greater capabilities during attacks on Russian positions.
The Mirage 2000-5F transferred to Ukraine will be able to carry, among other weapons, French AASM glide bombs, with which Ukrainians already have experience, and modern Mica air-to-air missiles. Additionally, these fighters will be equipped to transport long-range cruise missiles SCALP-EG and Storm Shadow, provided 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 on the front lines in Ukraine, alongside the previously mentioned long-range cruise missiles SCALP-EG, as well as Caesar self-propelled howitzers and AMX-10RC vehicles, which are highly appreciated by artillerymen.
