DefenseCelebrating Ukrainian Aviation Day, President Zelensky officially unveiled the first full-length image of a Dassault Mirage 2000-5F fighter jet. The aircraft retains its original French Air and Space Force camouflage, now with Ukrainian markings on its tail.
The Mirage 2000-5F was displayed unarmed but equipped with missile rails for MICA-IR and MICA-EM missiles. Two 2,000-liter external fuel tanks, painted in the Ukrainian flag colors, were also fitted. Notably, the in-flight refueling probe was removed, as Ukraine currently lacks this capability.
The French fighter is a versatile aircraft used for both air defense and attack missions. Prior to delivery, France announced modifications to enhance its air-to-ground capabilities, reflecting an adaptation to Ukraine’s operational needs.
The delivery of Mirage 2000-5F jets, announced by the French Defense Minister for February 2025, marks a strategic enhancement for Ukraine, particularly highlighted by the aircraft’s first combat engagement intercepting a Russian Kh-101 missile in March 2025.
Although the total number of jets delivered remains undisclosed, Ukraine is expected to receive six units by the end of the first quarter of 2025.
Despite the reported loss of one aircraft due to equipment failure in July 2025, the addition of these jets could significantly bolster Ukraine’s defense posture amid ongoing regional tensions.
The Ukrainian government had initially requested 12 Mirage 2000-5F jets, as confirmed by the French government in November 2024. The gradual integration of these aircraft into the Ukrainian military may influence future defense procurement and strategic operations.
