France to deliver Mirage 2000 fighters to Ukraine in early 2025

Ukraine will soon receive Mirage 2000 fighter jets from France, with the first aircraft expected to be delivered in early 2025, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced during a press conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.

Barrot highlighted France’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defence efforts, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

"Our assistance is manifested in concrete examples. In the defence sector, we provide Ukraine with equipment and military hardware. France is also the first country to train an entire brigade, the Anna Kyivska Brigade. The first Mirage 2000 aircraft will be delivered to Ukraine early next year," Barrot stated.

The French foreign minister also confirmed that France will train Ukrainian pilots to operate the Mirage 2000 jets, further strengthening Ukraine's military capabilities.

The delivery of the Mirage 2000 aircraft is part of a broader effort to bolster Ukraine's air force. Earlier reports from June 2024 indicated that Ukraine would receive three types of Western-style combat aircraft by the end of the year. Along with the Mirage 2000, the fleet will include American F-16 fighters and ACS 890 long-range reconnaissance aircraft.

At present, France plans to provide 20 Mirage 2000-5F fighters to Ukraine, though the delivery timeline has been adjusted, with the first jets arriving in early 2025. There is also speculation that Ukraine could receive an upgraded version of the Mirage 2000, further enhancing its air defense capabilities.

Barrot reaffirmed France's commitment to standing by Ukraine, stating that "France will continue to support Ukraine in its efforts to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity."

By Khagan Isayev