The Ukrainian Air Forces have released a video in which pilots and technicians provide a detailed look at the operation of French Mirage 2000 fighters. The aircraft’s Magic 2 missile has proven extremely effective, with nearly a 100% success rate, they report.
The filming crew captured the jet during a real combat mission. Ukrainian pilots and forward teams constantly have to change airfields, as the Russian military continually attempts to destroy the Defense Forces' equipment. Combat operations often take place under missile attacks and drone strikes.
“Mirage aircraft in the Ukrainian Air Force are rare, so encountering one at an operational airfield, especially during an active combat mission, is a real stroke of luck for our crew,” says the footage.
The aircraft’s effectiveness against Russian drones and missiles reaches 98% rate
Ukrainian pilots received training in France on how to operate these advanced jets.
“For about six months, we trained to fly and use weapons on the two-seater Mirage 2000. Then we transitioned to the single-seat version, the one I’m currently flying,” the pilot said.
The aircraft’s effectiveness against Russian drones and missiles reaches 98%, which the pilot called “impressive numbers.”
He emphasized that the Air Force needs more aircraft and modern weaponry to counter the Russian offensive.
“We need weapons that strike a balance between efficiency and cost, so we can deal with the volume of aerial threats we currently face,” he added.
The only aircraft superior to the Mirage is the French Rafale - pilots
“If I could switch to a better aircraft, I would probably choose the Rafale. Since it’s also French, transitioning would be faster than switching to jets from other countries. The Rafale can also carry Meteor missiles, which are long-range,” the pilot said.
He stated that Ukrainian pilots are prepared to execute their missions at any time, but they require support from their partners in supplying the necessary weapons and equipment.
