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French Dassault Aviation Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets will arrive in Ukraine as early as this month, becoming a symbol of French military assistance in the fight against Russian aggression, Avions Legendaires reports
According to agreements between Presidents Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine will receive the first three planes out of 12 planned by January 2025. These aircraft, previously in service with the French Air and Space Forces, have been modernized to perform not only intercept but also strike missions, including launching SCALP-EG and Storm Shadow cruise missiles.
Training Ukrainian pilots to operate these single-seat fighters took several months because of the Mirage 2000-5F’s significant differences from the familiar MiG-29, Su-24, Su-25 and Su-27. However, Ukrainian pilots quickly appreciated the maneuverability and efficiency of the French machines designed for close combat.
The first deliveries are expected by January 20, 2025, although it is possible that the aircraft are already in Ukraine and undergoing test flights. The Mirage 2000-5F will be the second Western fighter in Ukraine’s arsenal after the U.S. F-16s, but the first European fighter.
France continues to show resolve in supporting Ukraine, complementing previous deliveries of Caesar howitzers and AMX-10RC armored vehicles.
