Ukraine's push for stronger air defenses faces hurdles despite recent advances
Ukraine's need for robust airpower is undeniable, given the ongoing threat from Russian aggression. Acquiring a fleet of modern fighter jets has become a top priority, but Kyiv's efforts have been plagued by numerous setbacks. The latest challenge comes from an unexpected source: Poland.
Ukraine has deployed F-16 fighter jets for the first time in weeks to counter Russian attacks, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praising their effectiveness in repelling recent missile assaults. However, Ukraine's ambition to expand its fighter jet fleet further – possibly incorporating more F-16s and Mirage 2000-5s – has been hampered by Poland's reluctance to provide additional Soviet MiG jets for now.
Zelenskyy used a press conference to lament Poland's perceived decline in focus on Ukraine's defense needs, stating, "We urgently need your MiG planes." Discussions with President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Tusk yielded no clear resolution as of yet.
Poland's Defense Minister, Kosiniak-Kamysz, acknowledged Zelenskyy's request. However, the Polish state's top priority remains bolstering its own air force with new aircraft, such as the F-35 fighter jets set for delivery this Wednesday (for pilot training in the U.S.) and expected in Poland by 2026.
The timely transfer of MiG-29s to Ukraine would coincide with the arrival of Poland's first F-35s in 2026. Ukraine's desire for immediate usage of MiG planes is underscored by the slow pace of F-16 deployment – with Kyiv expecting to get around 20 F-16s airborne this year – and the need for four to six times that number for effective air defense.
Historical MiG-29 Transfers from Poland
Ukraine benefited from Poland's MiG-29 fleet handover last year.
France's Mirage-5 promise faces challenges
French President Emmanuel Macron sparked hope in June by announcing that Mirage-5 fighter jets would be delivered to train Ukrainian pilots. The goal was for pilots to spend five to six months in France beginning this summer, with combat readiness achieved by year's end. However, subsequent developments have been scarce.
The French defense ministry declined to comment further on the Mirage-5 topic, and the Élysée Palace did not respond to repeated requests. France is already training combat pilots as part of its European mission, EUMAM, albeit without providing an exact count. The Ministry of Defense confirmed that Ukrainian pilots were receiving comprehensive combat pilot training at a French air force base, utilizing Alpha Jet training aircraft.
While the delivery of additional MiG-29s from Poland may be delayed, Ukraine has resumed western combat aircraft use, namely the F-16 fighter jets, to counter Russian aggression. Amidst all this, Ukraine recognizes the necessity to significantly grow its fighter jet fleet – aspiring to acquire more F-16s and potentially French Mirage 2000-5s.
