France has formally introduced its plan to supply Ukraine with Dassault Mirage 2000 fighter jets, marking a major addition to Kyiv’s rising air energy.
The supply of the delta-winged plane is scheduled to start within the first quarter of 2025, following the latest arrival of F-16 fighters, making the Mirage 2000 the second Western-made fighter jet to be transferred to Ukraine.
In an announcement on X, French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu outlined the upgrades that the Mirage 2000 jets will obtain earlier than their deployment to Ukraine. These modifications embrace superior digital self-defense programs and undisclosed upgrades that may allow the plane to conduct air-to-ground missions. The work on these enhancements will happen at Cazaux Air Base in southwest France.
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“France is dedicated to supporting Ukraine in its protection efforts, and the switch of those Mirage 2000 fighters underscores our dedication,” Lecornu stated.
The Mirage 2000 jets will likely be remodeled from their unique air policing function into versatile, multi-role fight plane tailor-made to Ukraine’s operational necessities. The upgrades are supposed to boost Ukraine’s capacity to strike floor targets, providing flexibility in each air protection and offensive missions.
In line with Avionslegendaires.web, France plans to switch between 12 and 20 Mirage 2000-5F jets, with deliveries anticipated between January 1 and March 30, 2025. The precise variety of plane will depend upon operational availability and ongoing upkeep work.
The coaching of Ukrainian pilots and mechanics is already underway, making certain that by the point the jets are delivered, they are going to be prepared for speedy operational use. These efforts come as a part of France’s broader help for Ukraine’s protection forces, which have been modernizing their air fleet amidst ongoing battle.
The Mirage 2000, which has confirmed efficient in varied theaters of fight, is seen as a invaluable addition to Ukraine’s air fleet. Initially designed for air superiority missions, the upgraded jets will present Kyiv with a much-needed edge in conducting air-to-ground operations, providing extra flexibility in concentrating on enemy positions and defending key infrastructure.
The French initiative is a part of a wider European effort to help Ukraine with superior navy gear, following related contributions from different NATO allies.
