TheLittleTwentieth – Renowned Papers Edition, AI Infused

Local sources from France: Le Monde, TF1 INFO.
UK coverage: POLITICO Europe.

In a surprising announcement, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that France will be sending Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine, marking a significant increase in direct military support to Kyiv. The announcement came during an interview in Caen, coinciding with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s official visit. Macron also disclosed that Ukraine would receive training in France for a period of five to six months, with the aim of training 4,500 service personnel.

The decision to send Mirage aircraft to Ukraine has been seen as a new step in Macron’s support for Kiev. While many military and executive sources had previously suggested abandoning this option, considering it too complex, Macron’s announcement indicates a turning point in France’s approach. The President did not specify the number of Mirage aircraft that would be sent, but mentioned the formation of a coalition with other partners, suggesting a joint effort.

However, transferring a reasonable number of fighter jets to Ukraine poses challenges for France, as the Air Force has a limited number of aircraft available. The Mirage 2000-5F, the oldest fighter aircraft in the Air Force, is still widely used and is crucial for various missions. One option suggested by experts is to transfer the Mirage 2000-5 currently held by Qatar, as Qatar has been trying to transfer them to Indonesia. France’s decision to provide Mirage 2000-5 to Ukraine is expected to significantly enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.

The Mirage 2000-5 is renowned for its strong capabilities, particularly in air defense. Equipped with advanced radars, it can detect aircraft, missiles, and drones at long distances. Additionally, it can carry missiles with a range of over 80 km, making it a significant advancement compared to the Soviet aircraft currently used by Ukraine. This delivery aims to strengthen the balance of power in the ongoing war in Ukraine, where Russia currently controls the airspace above the front.

In addition to the fighter jets, France has also pledged to train 4,500 Ukrainian soldiers. However, Macron denied sending instructors to Ukraine, emphasizing the training program in France. The training is expected to last for six months, after which Ukrainian pilots will be equipped to operate the Mirage 2000-5 effectively.

The delivery of the Mirage aircraft is anticipated to take place at the end of the year, following the completion of training for Ukrainian pilots. While the exact number of aircraft to be provided remains undisclosed, this move by France signifies its readiness to directly participate in military conflicts, as stated by the Kremlin in response to the announcement.

France’s decision to send Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine demonstrates its increased commitment to supporting Kyiv and its efforts to counter Russian aggression. This move is likely to have significant implications for the ongoing conflict and the balance of power in the region.