France to discuss with Greece the transfer of over 40 Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine
Kyiv • UNN
Greece may transfer 43 Mirage aircraft to Ukraine in exchange for Rafale. The issue will be discussed during Macron's visit on April 24-25 to enhance Ukraine's security.
France may begin negotiations with Greece in the coming days regarding the transfer of Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine, with the total number potentially exceeding 40 units. This is reported by Defense Express with reference to Greek media, writes UNN.
Details
This refers to a possible agreement that provides for the transfer of all available Mirage aircraft in Greece, along with spare parts, in exchange for French Rafale fighter jets on favorable terms.
It is expected that this issue will be discussed during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Greece on April 24-25 as part of negotiations on security cooperation.
Which aircraft can be transferred
According to preliminary data, it could be 24 Mirage 2000-5 Mk II fighters and another 17 Mirage 2000 EGM/BGM – a total of up to 43 aircraft.
At the same time, some of them are not combat-ready. In particular, Mirage 2000 EGM/BGM have already been decommissioned and were previously considered a source of spare parts.
France can offer Greece Rafale fighters manufactured by Dassault Aviation, but the key remains the terms of the agreement – the number of aircraft, their cost, and delivery times.
Rafale production is currently limited – the pace is 2-3 aircraft per month with a possible increase in the future, which may affect the timing of the agreement.
Political decision
The key factor remains Greece's position. The transfer of fighter jets to Ukraine is primarily a political decision, despite the country's defense capabilities.
An additional factor is that the contract for the maintenance of Greek Mirages is valid until 2027.
The final parameters of the possible agreement have not yet been disclosed.