Ukraine is set to receive additional Mirage 2000 fighter jets from France — the decision has already been made, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. The president also confirmed that Ukraine would receive extra missiles for its air-defence systems and further support with interceptor drones, The WP Times reports, citing the President of Ukraine.
In his evening address, Zelensky expressed gratitude to both Britain and France for their continued military assistance, emphasising that international cooperation remains essential to strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities against ongoing Russian aggression.
“There is a decision on additional Mirage fighters for Ukraine and missiles for air defence. Britain will continue to help us with air defence — with missiles and the production of interceptor drones,” said the Ukrainian leader.
Earlier, on 24 October, French President Emmanuel Macron announced after a meeting of the Coalition of the Resolutethat France would soon deliver another package of military aid to Ukraine. This includes Mirage fighter aircraft and Aster missiles for the SAMP/T air-defence systems.
On the same day, Zelensky also hinted at what he called “secret decisions” taken by Ukraine’s allies to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities — without disclosing further details.
What is the Mirage 2000
The Mirage 2000 is a fourth-generation multirole fighter aircraft designed and built by the French aerospace company Dassault Aviation. Conceived during the Cold War as a light, agile interceptor, it evolved into one of Europe’s most versatile and enduring fighter platforms. The aircraft first entered service with the French Air Force in 1978, replacing the Mirage III, and has since undergone numerous upgrades in radar, avionics, and weapons systems.
Built primarily from aluminium and composite materials, the Mirage 2000 combines delta-wing aerodynamics with a single Snecma M53 turbofan engine, allowing it to reach speeds of over Mach 2.2 and operate effectively in both high-altitude interception and low-level strike missions. Its compact design and fly-by-wire control system provide exceptional manoeuvrability and stability, even at supersonic speeds.
The jet exists in several main variants, including:
- Mirage 2000C – single-seat interceptor for air superiority missions, equipped with Matra Super 530 and Magic II missiles.
- Mirage 2000D – dedicated strike aircraft capable of precision bombing and deep penetration missions.
- Mirage 2000N – nuclear-capable variant designed to carry the French ASMP cruise missile.
- Mirage 2000-5 and -9 – export and upgraded versions with advanced radar, modern cockpit displays, and beyond-visual-range engagement capabilities.
Modernised variants of the Mirage 2000 feature multifunction radar, glass cockpits, and compatibility with guided munitions such as the AASM Hammer and Paveway II laser bombs. Its versatility allows it to perform air-to-air combat, close air support, reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence missions with equal precision.
Despite the emergence of fifth-generation fighters like the Rafale or F-35, the Mirage 2000 continues to serve in several air forces, including France, India, Greece, the UAE, Egypt, and Taiwan. The aircraft’s proven reliability, relatively low maintenance costs, and adaptability make it an attractive option for countries seeking to modernise their fleets without the expense of next-generation aircraft.
Its combat record includes missions in the Gulf War, Kosovo, Libya, and recent operations in the Sahel, where it demonstrated resilience in harsh environments and accuracy in precision strikes. More than 600 units have been produced, and several are currently being upgraded under extended service programmes.
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