French President Emmanuel Macron has confirmed that France will supply Ukraine with five Dassault Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets and initiate a training program for Ukrainian pilots this summer.

This move aligns with a broader European coalition effort to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, following similar initiatives such as the provision of F-16 fighters by other European nations.

In an interview with TF1 and France 2, Macron outlined the strategic plan aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s defense against ongoing threats. “We’ll be launching a new cooperation program and announcing the transfer of Mirage 2000-5s — French fighter jets that will enable Ukraine to protect its soil and airspace,” Macron stated. “From tomorrow, we’re going to launch a pilot training program, followed by the transfer of these aircraft.”

The Mirage 2000-5, an advanced version of the Mirage 2000 series, boasts significant upgrades including improved radar systems and compatibility with sophisticated weaponry. Dassault Aviation has produced around 600 Mirage 2000 jets, with half being exported to countries such as Greece, the United Arab Emirates, and Taiwan. The Mirage 2000-5 is equipped with the RDY radar by Thales, capable of detecting typical targets at a range of 130 kilometers and simultaneously tracking eight targets while engaging four.

The RDY radar enhances the aircraft’s ability to detect ground-hugging targets like cruise missiles and drones, including Shahed-type suicide drones, thus improving Ukraine’s defense against diverse threats. The Mirage 2000-5 is also compatible with Mica air-to-air missiles and Scalp cruise missiles, the latter of which France has previously supplied to Ukraine.

Developed in the early 1990s with first production units delivered in 1997, the Mirage 2000-5 upgrade focused on modernizing the aircraft’s onboard systems to significantly enhance its combat capabilities.

Macron’s announcement comes amid continuing efforts by European nations to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The coalition to supply F-16 fighters to Ukraine has already seen contributions from multiple countries, and France’s addition of the Mirage 2000-5s represents a further step in strengthening Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. (ILKHA)