France is spearheading a strategic trilateral initiative that could significantly bolster Ukraine’s air combat capabilities while modernizing Greece’s air force. According to a report by Le Figaro, French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to propose a sweeping aircraft exchange deal to the Greek government during his official visit to Athens on April 24-25, 2026. Paris envisions a scenario where Greece transfers its entire fleet of 43 Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine. In exchange, Dassault Aviation will provide Athens with modern Rafale multirole fighters at highly discounted rates.
The proposal targets a mixed fleet currently held by the Hellenic Air Force. Specifically, the transfer would include 24 capable Mirage 2000-5 fighters and 19 older Mirage 2000 EGM/BGM models, alongside an extensive inventory of spare parts. While the older jets have largely been decommissioned and may no longer be combat-ready, they remain highly valuable as a source of components to maintain the operational readiness of the Mirage 2000s that Ukraine is already operating and will receive in the future.
For Greece, this potential agreement aligns perfectly with its ongoing military overhaul. Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias previously outlined a comprehensive restructuring of the armed forces, explicitly stating the intention to phase out aging aircraft platforms, including the Mirage 2000s. The proposed exchange would allow the Hellenic Air Force’s 114th Combat Wing to fully transition to a next-generation fleet, equipping two complete squadrons with a total of 36 Rafale jets on favorable financial terms.
The influx of Mirage 2000 jets would be a major asset for the Ukrainian Air Force. French Mirages designated for Ukraine undergo specialized upgrades to carry AASM Hammer precision-guided bombs and SCALP-EG long-range cruise missiles. These capabilities transform the aircraft into a formidable strike platform capable of neutralizing high-value Russian logistical hubs and command centers deep behind the front lines.
France has been a steadfast contributor to Ukraine’s aviation coalition. Following earlier commitments and ongoing deliveries of Mirage fighters, Paris continues to push for a wider European defense effort. Ukrainian pilots have been undergoing rigorous tactical training in France to master the advanced systems of the Mirage 2000. If successful, Macron’s diplomatic push in Athens will not only solidify France’s leadership in European defense but also provide Kyiv with the critical aerial reinforcement necessary to sustain its defensive and counter-offensive operations.