Ukraine strengthens air defence with first use of French Mirage 2000 jets

Ukraine's Air Force confirmed the first deployment of French-provided Mirage 2000 fighter jets in repelling a Russian air attack, marking a key moment in the country’s defence against ongoing Russian aggression.

The Russian assault, launched overnight, involved 67 missiles of various types and 194 drones aimed at Ukrainian territory, Caliber.Az reports per Ukrainian media.

Ukraine’s air defence systems, including anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare systems, and mobile fire groups, intercepted a significant portion of the attack, managing to down 34 missiles and 100 drones. Additionally, Ukraine deployed fighter jets, including its newly acquired F-16s and the French Mirage 2000s, to bolster its defence.

The Mirage 2000s, which were delivered to Ukraine as part of a military aid package, had only arrived in the country a month prior. French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed on February 6 that the first batch of Mirage 2000-5 jets pledged by France had reached Ukraine.

These aircraft are part of a broader military assistance package announced by French President Emmanuel Macron in June 2024, which also included pilot training, although the total number of jets France intends to supply has not been disclosed.

The Mirage 2000 is a fourth-generation supersonic fighter aircraft developed by Dassault Aviation, first introduced in the 1970s. The Mirage 2000-5 variant, which arrived in Ukraine, features enhanced avionics, improved air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities, and an advanced sensor and control system, making it a formidable asset for Ukraine’s air defense strategy.

By Vafa Guliyeva