How France’s Mirage Jets Could Help Offset Delays in the F-16 Program
France Steps In with Mirage Fighter Jets
France has agreed to send Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine, adding a practical layer to Ukraine’s air defense. When these jets arrive, they will join the American-made F-16s, expanding Ukraine’s fleet with a second Western aircraft type. French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu highlighted the importance of training Ukrainian pilots and mechanics, with instruction already underway in Nancy, France.
By providing both aircraft and training, France addresses some of the setbacks Ukraine faces with the F-16 program. Retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Gordon “Skip” Davis recognized this support, noting it could help Ukraine maintain a limited but essential level of air defense.
F-16 Training Challenges Remain
While the U.S. and allies like Denmark and Romania are training Ukrainian pilots on F-16s, these efforts have encountered logistical issues. Ukraine needs more training slots, and many experienced pilots struggle with the English proficiency required for the F-16 program. This has slowed training and delayed F-16 deployment, with only 10 F-16s delivered so far. Given these constraints, even when deployed, these limited F-16s will not dramatically change the aerial battlefield.
AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky
France’s Independent Training Program
France’s Mirage program offers Ukraine a separate training pipeline that avoids the bottlenecks affecting the F-16 schedule. The French can run this training independently, without the delays that often accompany multinational coordination. According to Michael Bohnert of the RAND Corporation, this approach allows France to work within its own timeline, which may prove valuable given Ukraine’s immediate needs.
The Mirage jets won’t turn the tide, but they add a manageable asset to Ukraine’s existing resources. Diversifying Ukraine’s air fleet provides some flexibility while the F-16 program continues.
A Strategic, Limited Impact
France’s Mirage jets bring another dimension to Ukraine’s air defenses, even if only incrementally. The aircraft and training support offer an immediate resource as Ukraine faces ongoing challenges with its defense capabilities. However, these additions alone aren’t likely to alter the balance against Russian airpower, which remains a serious threat.
France’s contribution reflects a pragmatic step within its capabilities, suggesting that incremental, independent support from Western allies can play a role.
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