The first batch of Mirage 2000 fighter jets has officially arrived in Ukraine, French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed on February 6.
“Ukrainian pilots, who have undergone months of rigorous training in France, will now help defend Ukraine’s skies,” Lecornu stated.
The delivery follows France’s earlier announcement on June 6, 2024, pledging to supply Ukraine with the advanced multi-role aircraft.
The Mirage 2000 jets, known for their agility and precision, are expected to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian air strikes and drone attacks.
The Mirage 2000-5F is a French multirole fighter, originally designed for NATO surveillance operations. While it is one of the oldest aircraft still in service with the French military, recent modifications by the French Directorate General of Armaments at the Cazaux base in Gironde have transformed the jet into a versatile platform capable of launching SCALP-EG/Storm Shadow cruise missiles for long-range strikes against Russian targets.
Equipped with the advanced Thales RDI (Radar Doppler à Impulsion) radar system, the Mirage 2000-5F surpasses the capabilities of Russian MiG-29s and Su-27s. It can simultaneously detect 24 aerial targets, track eight, and engage four at the same time, offering superior situational awareness and engagement capacity.
The Mirage’s modern digital cockpit and advanced avionics enable it to process information in real-time, providing faster response rates during high-pressure combat engagements compared to its Russian counterparts. Its lightweight design and enhanced maneuverability offer greater flexibility and precision, making it a formidable addition to Ukraine’s air force arsenal.
Earlier, reports emerged that some of the Mirage 2000-5 aircraft that France plans to deliver to Ukraine will be modified to equip them with the ability to engage ground targets.
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-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Ivan Khomenko")
