France plans to supply Ukraine with the Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets, but before their delivery, these aircraft will undergo significant modifications to allow them to strike ground targets. Initially designed for air-to-air combat, the Mirage 2000-5F aircraft is currently made for launching air-to-air missiles, but this transformation will extend its versatility, according to Sud Ouest.
The modifications will take place at the French Armament Directorate’s airbase in Cazaux, where the jets will be equipped to conduct ground strikes. Damien Bruneau, Director of the Flight Testing Department at the Armament Directorate, confirmed that these enhancements will help equip Ukraine’s forces for current and future needs. He also emphasized that the jets are being continuously upgraded to meet evolving demands.
Read more: Unexpectedly Fast: Mirage 2000-5 May Arrive in Ukraine Within Months, French Ambassador Says
According to AIR and COSMOS, this capability is not entirely new to the Mirage jets, as similar models, like the Greek Mirage 2000-5 Mk2 aircraft, already has the ability to carry air-to-ground and air-to-sea munitions. Potentially, modified aircraft could be equipped with advanced weaponry such as the vSCALP-EG cruise missiles or Exocet anti-ship missiles.
Further upgrades, such as the integration of laser targeting pods for firing precision-guided munitions, are also being considered. However, these enhancements will require extensive testing before they are fully operational.
Read more: How Can Mirage 2000-5 Fighters Be Modernized to the Fullest Extent, and Is It Worthwhile?
