Mirage 2000 fighter jets are set to strengthen Ukrainian air defense. France has officially announced its intention to enhance Ukraine’s air force capabilities through the provision of Mirage 2000 fighter jets, with deliveries expected to commence by early 2025. This declaration was made by Sébastien Lecornu, the French Minister of the Armed Forces, on October 8, 2024, re-confirming France’s dedication to support Ukraine to defend against Russian invasion.

The transfer of the Upgraded Mirage 2000 jets, first announced by President Emmanuel Macron in June 2024, is a vital part of an expanded military cooperation platform between France and Ukraine. This decision is particularly essential, as Ukraine aims to reinforce its air force amid increasing hostilities. Arrival of a few F-16 Jets are not enough to fight against a massive Russian air force.

In a significant announcement, Lecornu stated that the Mirage 2000 would be modified to carry SCALP-EG/Storm Shadow cruise missiles. These missiles, which have already been provided to Ukraine by France and the United Kingdom, will greatly enhance the operational range and effectiveness of the aircraft.

Training arrangements for Ukrainian pilots and mechanics are currently in progress. According to reports, as many as 30 Ukrainian pilots have been engaged in training sessions aimed at familiarizing themselves with the systems of the Mirage 2000.

“These planes will be equipped in such a way that we have an advantage over the enemy,”

Ukraine Defense Minister Rustem Umerov

France’s move to send Mirage 2000 highlights its strategic priorities in Eastern Europe and its commitment to opposing Russian expansionism. The global community, especially NATO partners, have demonstrated a cohesive posture in supporting Ukraine, acknowledging the critical role of robust air support in the ongoing war.

Delivery of upgraded Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine is a mission critical step in enhancing the country’s defense capabilities. With advanced modifications and ongoing pilot training, Ukraine is poised to leverage these aircraft effectively in its struggle against Russian aggression​.

Since NATO countries began transferring F-16 Fighter Jets to Ukraine, Russia has condemned this provision of lethal assistance, asserting that these actions equate to direct involvement of the Western alliance in the conflict, which could provoke appropriate response measures from Russia. This decision by France to transfer Mirage 2000 aircraft to Ukraine is likely to be viewed furiously by the Kremlin.

Another new fighter jet system will definitely bring in challenges for training during these crisis times; however, Ukraine appears to have reached its limit of patience. The extremely slow delivery of insufficient numbers of F-16 fighter jets by the United States has pushed Ukraine to seek an alternative (though not equivalent) western fighter jet system, particularly in light of the formidable Russian air force assaults.

The Upgraded Mirage 2000 Fighter Jet- Mirage 2000-5F

• Converted from Mirage 2000Cs
• Equipped with RDY radar, a mechanically scanned pulse-Doppler type with look-down/shoot-down capability
• Can track multiple targets (up to 8 targets simultaneously) 
• Can Carry Beyond Visual Range MICA Missiles
• Can Fire SCALP-EG/Storm Shadow cruise missiles (Max range 250KM- May Strike Deep into Russia)
• Hammer rocket assisted precision guided bomb