In a significant move to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities amid ongoing tensions with Russia, France has successfully delivered its first batch of Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets. This announcement was made by Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, who stated that the aircraft had arrived in Ukraine on Thursday. While the exact number of jets delivered has not been disclosed, Lecornu emphasized that these planes will play a crucial role in defending Ukraine’s skies.
The delivery follows an extensive training program in which French military personnel instructed Ukrainian pilots over the previous months. “The first of these aircraft have arrived in Ukraine today,” Lecornu shared via the platform X, highlighting the collaborative effort between France and Ukraine to strengthen the latter’s aerial capabilities.
This commitment dates back to June of last year, when French President Emmanuel Macron first announced the plan to transfer the Mirage 2000-5 aircraft to Ukraine, underscoring the deepening military cooperation between the two nations. According to a budget report from France’s National Assembly, France’s air force possesses a total of 26 Mirage 2000-5 jets, with six earmarked for transfer to Ukraine.
The French defense ministry, as part of its security protocols, has refrained from confirming the exact number of jets in the initial delivery. In preparation for the integration of these fighter jets, Ukrainian pilots and mechanics have been trained in eastern France, with the aircraft undergoing necessary modifications to enhance their combat effectiveness, particularly against Russian jamming techniques.
The announcement of the jets’ delivery coincides with a shifting narrative surrounding the ongoing conflict, particularly as discussions around a potential negotiated settlement to the nearly three-year war have gained traction. This comes at a time when Ukraine’s forces face significant challenges on the eastern front, compounded by the prospect of Donald Trump resuming his position in the White House.
In recent developments, Ukraine also welcomed a shipment of US-made F-16 fighter jets in August, further emphasizing the international support being mobilized for Kyiv’s defense efforts. The arrival of these advanced fighter jets from both France and the United States marks a pivotal step in enhancing Ukraine’s air defense strategy as it continues to navigate the complexities of the ongoing conflict with Russia.
