French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu said that Ukraine will receive the promised fourth-generation Mirage 2000 multi-role fighters already in the first quarter of 2025. This was reported by the Sud Ouest newspaper on October 7. The planes will be equipped with the latest equipment at the Kazot base in Gironde to increase their combat effectiveness.
According to Lecornu, the Mirage 2000 will be equipped with systems for striking ground targets, as well as electronic warfare (EW).
“The goal is to equip them with air-to-ground combat capabilities. And to strengthen their electronic warfare system. But the most important aspect is the training of pilots and mechanics that is going on in Nancy.”– said the minister.
If Ukraine receives the Mirage 2000, this aircraft will become the second Western fighter in the arsenal of the Ukrainian Air Force, along with the F-16. The French fighter has a wide range of capabilities to perform various combat missions, thanks to its armament, which includes MICA air-to-air missiles (range up to 80 km), SCALP air-to-ground missiles (range up to 500 km), as well as Exocet anti-ship missiles and AS37 Armat anti-radar missiles. In addition, the aircraft is equipped with two 30-mm cannons and is capable of carrying up to 6.3 tons of weapons on nine suspension points.
Although the Mirage 2000’s radar range and anti-aircraft capabilities are inferior to the F-16, the aircraft is still able to effectively carry out long-range strikes against ground targets and provide cover for rear areas, making it an important addition to the Ukrainian air force.
