France Affirms Commitment to Transfer Mirage 2000 Aircraft to Ukraine

France is adhering strictly to its commitments regarding the transfer of Mirage 2000 aircraft to Ukraine, according to French Ambassador Gaël Vésier. Speaking at a briefing on the evening of July 14, Vésier commented on the implementation of a security agreement signed between the two countries five months ago.

“The President of the Republic outlined specific directions for the execution of this agreement. This includes military equipment such as additional SCALP missiles, ASTER missiles for the SAMP/T air defense systems, and the French government’s intention to transfer a certain number of Mirage 2000-5 aircraft to Ukraine,” Vésier stated.

He emphasized that preparations for these aircraft, including the training of personnel, will take several months. Vésier also recalled the signing of an agreement on June 7 in Paris during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit, involving the production of shells in Ukraine by the manufacturer Nexter for the “CAESAR” artillery systems.

Regarding the Mirage 2000-5 aircraft transfer, Vésier assured that France remains committed to fulfilling its obligations. He underscored that these commitments were made in close coordination with Ukraine’s military leadership.

While specific details regarding the timing and quantity of aircraft were not disclosed, Vésier noted that the process involves technical and flight personnel training, which cannot be expedited beyond certain time constraints.

President Emmanuel Macron announced on June 6 the decision to transfer Mirage fighters to Ukraine and provide training for pilots in France. Mirage aircraft are equipped with SCALP cruise missiles, which are already in Ukraine’s inventory deployed on Su-24M aircraft.