France to deliver first Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine early 2025

France is set to deliver the first Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine in the first quarter of 2025, French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced on October 8. The move follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s commitment in June to bolster Ukraine’s airpower by providing Mirage 2000-5 jets.

The Mirage jets will be equipped with upgraded capabilities to support air-to-ground combat and defend against electronic warfare, according to Lecornu. “The planes will be equipped with new equipment: air-to-ground combat capabilities and anti-electronic warfare defense,” he said.

Lecornu also confirmed that the training of Ukrainian pilots and mechanics is ongoing, as Kyiv prepares to integrate the French-made jets into its air force. The first group of Ukrainian pilots completed Alpha Jet training in France as of September 20.

Details of the Mirage 2000-5

The Mirage 2000 is a multirole fighter jet designed in the late 1970s and introduced in 1984. The 2000-5 variant features enhanced radar systems and the ability to carry fuel drop tanks, extending its operational range.

The jets slated for Ukraine will be equipped for ground target strikes, positioning them as a critical asset in Ukraine’s defense efforts.

The Mirage 2000-5 is a fourth-generation fighter jet, similar in class to the U.S.-made F-16 jets that Ukraine is already operating. Denmark and the Netherlands were the first countries to provide F-16s, marking a significant addition to Ukraine’s air capabilities.

Ukraine’s expanding air arsenal

While awaiting the delivery of the Mirage 2000-5 jets and additional F-16s, Ukraine is also in discussions to acquire Swedish-made Saab JAS 39 Gripen and Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets.