Mirage 2000 jets to bolster Ukraine's defence by 2025
The French Mirage 2000 fighter jets will make their debut in Ukraine in the first quarter of 2025, reports the Kyiv Post. This means another Western design will join the F-16 fighters.
The French Mirage 2000 fighter jets are expected to appear in Ukrainian skies in the coming weeks. According to the Kyiv Post, citing a statement by the French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, these aircraft will join the fight against Russian forces before the end of March 2025.
New support for Ukraine
The Mirage 2000 is the second Western fighter jet to be introduced into Ukraine's air fleet. Previously, Ukraine received F-16 fighter jets. The new aircraft are expected to be used mainly for intercepting Russian missiles and drones, enhancing the country's defensive capabilities.
Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Foreign Minister, confirmed that the Mirage 2000 fighter jets will arrive in Ukraine before March 31, 2025. This is a significant step in strengthening military cooperation between France and Ukraine.
Mirage jets for Ukraine
The Mirage 2000 is a versatile fighter jet equipped with a single engine, created by the French company Dassault Aviation, featuring a delta wing design. The aircraft is over 15 metres in length, and its wingspan reaches about 9 metres. It can operate at altitudes of up to 18,900 metres.
The Mirage 2000-5F, which will be delivered to Ukraine, was introduced into service in 1991 and represents one of the most important upgrades of this design with a modern cockpit and advanced combat systems. They will be capable of carrying French AASM glide bombs, which Ukrainian pilots are already familiar with. Additionally, there are modern Mica air-to-air missiles. Besides that, these fighters will be able to transport long-range SCALP-EG and Storm Shadow cruise missiles, which were supplied by France and the United Kingdom.
