France has played a major role in supporting Ukraine in its standoff with Russia, as the U.S. temporarily suspended satellite coverage, despite later u-turning on this in Jeddah on Tuesday.
One aspect of French support points to the supply of Mirage 2000-5F fighters, with the use of satellite imagery, such as Maxar.
Delivery: Mirage 2000-5F Fighters to Ukraine
In June 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the transfer of an unspecified number of Mirage 2000-5F fighters to Ukraine.
These aircraft underwent upgrades prior to delivery, including upgrades to their air and ground combat systems, as well as electronic warfare defenses.
In October 2024, it was reported that the first three aircraft would be equipped with MICA missiles, SCALP-EG cruise missiles, and AASM Hammer guided bombs.
Satellite Issues: Maxar & U.S. Cut-Off
Maxar recently suspended its provision of satellite imagery to Ukraine, significantly complicating the work of Ukrainian drone operators in tracking and engaging Russian forces.
The decision follows a broader cutoff of support from the United States, including a brief suspension of intelligence data.
Access to high-quality satellite imagery is a major obstacle for the Ukrainian military, which relies on this data for navigation and planning operations.
European Defence: Long-Term Solutions
However, cooperation with European countries, including France, offers a sustainable solution. This includes European satellite surveillance systems.
France, in particular, owns Pleiades series satellites. Pleiades are capable of providing high-quality images of the earth’s surface.
The possibility of using commercial satellite services also provides the necessary data for Ukraine’s military needs.
French-Russian Relations
France’s active support for Ukraine could provoke Russian retaliation, including economic sanctions or cyberattacks. The logistics of delivering Mirage 2000-5Fs are complicated by a shortage of spare parts and the need to train pilots.
The use of French satellites could be limited by legal agreements and political factors, creating risks for Ukrainian military intelligence.
The Cost of Military Aid
The provision of military equipment such as the Mirage 2000-5F also puts pressure on the French economy, as significant amounts are spent on procurement, modernisation and crew training.
The French authorities must compensate for these costs through budgetary redistribution or additional taxes.
In particular, France has allocated 300 million euros for military supplies to Ukraine in 2024.
French support for Ukraine, including Mirage supplies and satellite intelligence, improves Ukrainian security despite the U.S.’s restoration of satellite cover. Whether Europe can maintain their support, in the long run, is yet to be seen.
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