Ukraine to Receive First Mirage 2000 Fighters Next Year
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has confirmed that Ukraine will receive its first batch of Dassault Mirage 2000 fighter jets in early 2025. This announcement came during Barrot’s diplomatic visit to Kyiv, where he met with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha.
During the press conference, Barrot reiterated France’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight for territorial integrity against Russia. “Your fight is our fight,” Barrot told reporters. “You are battling to restore Ukraine’s territorial integrity, but you are also holding the frontline between Europe and Putin’s Russia between freedom and oppression. We are doing everything we can to prevent other nations from being drawn into this war.”
The delivery of the Mirage 2000 fighter jets marks a significant milestone in France’s military aid to Ukraine. These advanced, multi-role combat aircraft are renowned for their maneuverability, speed, and precision.
In July 2024, French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu had revealed plans to equip the Mirage 2000 fighters with modern air-to-ground missiles and advanced electronic warfare systems. This upgrade will further enhance the capabilities of these aircraft, allowing them to effectively engage ground targets and counter enemy electronic defenses.
To ensure a smooth integration of the Mirage 2000 fighters into Ukraine’s air force, pilot and maintenance crew training is already underway in Nancy, France, according to Lecornu.
This comprehensive training program will equip Ukrainian personnel with the necessary skills to operate and maintain the sophisticated Mirage 2000 aircraft, enabling them to leverage the full potential of these advanced fighters in the ongoing conflict.
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The impending delivery of the Mirage 2000 fighters is a testament to France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s defense efforts. This announcement comes on the heels of Barrot’s visit to Kyiv, where he reaffirmed France’s commitment to preventing other nations from being drawn into the war.
As Ukraine continues its fight for territorial integrity, the addition of these powerful Mirage 2000 jets to its air force will undoubtedly bolster the country’s ability to defend its skies and project air power against Russian aggression. This milestone in military cooperation between France and Ukraine underscores the international community’s determination to stand by Ukraine in its struggle for freedom and sovereignty.
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