French Mirage jets to bolster Ukraine's defence by 2025
According to the Kyiv Post, French Mirage 2000 fighter jets will debut in Ukraine in the first quarter of 2025. This means that the F-16 fighters will be joined by another Western design.
The Mirage 2000 jets are expected to appear in Ukrainian skies soon. The Kyiv Post, citing a statement from the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, reports that 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 will be primarily used for intercepting Russian missiles and drones, enhancing the country's defensive capabilities.
Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that the Mirage 2000 jets will arrive in Ukraine before 31 March 2025. This marks an important step in strengthening military cooperation between France and Ukraine.
Mirage fighter jets for Ukraine
The Mirage 2000 is a versatile fighter jet equipped with a single engine. It was designed by the French company Dassault Aviation and is noted for its distinctive delta wing design. The aircraft measures over 49 feet in length and has a wingspan of about 30 feet. It can operate at altitudes up to 62,000 feet.
The Mirage 2000-5F, which will be delivered to Ukraine, was introduced into service in 1991 and represents one of the most significant upgrades to this design. It features a modern cockpit and enhanced combat systems. The fighters will be capable of carrying French AASM gliding bombs, with which Ukrainian pilots are already familiar. They also include modern Mica air-to-air missiles. Furthermore, these fighters will be able to transport long-range cruise missiles such as the SCALP-EG and Storm Shadow, supplied by France and the United Kingdom.
