France is set to supply three Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine during the first quarter of 2025.
The delivery will occur after Ukrainian pilots and technicians complete their training, according to La Tribune, which cited sources from the French presidency and the Ministry of the Armed Forces.
In September 2024, the first group of Ukrainian student pilots completed fighter training in France. It is unclear whether some of the first 10 cadets will convert to the French fighter or the F-16.
The Mirage 2000 is a fighter jet developed by Dassault Aviation in the 1970s. Though the 2000-5 is an air superiority variant, the French Air Force is currently upgrading the aircraft at Cazaux Air Base in order to enhance their effectiveness in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Key modifications will include the capability to launch SCALP-EG/Storm Shadow cruise missiles—typically used from a twin-seat version, but also compatible with the single-seat Mirage 2000-9 developed for the United Arab Emirates.
These jets will also be armed with MICA air-to-air missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, which have already been supplied to Ukraine for use with their MiG-29 fighters. Additionally, electronic warfare systems will be modernized to counter Russian jamming efforts.
Currently, two French squadrons, 1/2 Cigognes and 3/11 Corse, operate the Mirage 2000-5, which will eventually be replaced by Rafale fighters.