The United Arab Emirates has 30 "extra" Mirage 2000-9s, for which they are looking for a buyer, but they do not mention Ukraine

The United Arab Emirates has 30 "extra" Mirage 2000-9 aircraft capable of carrying Black Shaheen cruise missiles, the export version of the SCALP-EG. According to Opex360, the search for buyers for these aircraft is taking place with the active participation of France.

Here's What We Know

According to the French portal Opex360, the possibility of selling these aircraft to Morocco is currently being discussed, which is likely to be initiated by Paris to strengthen geopolitical ties with the Moroccan authorities.

The situation is complicated by rumours of Morocco's intention to buy new Rafale aircraft from France. However, these issues were not even raised during President Macron's official visit to Morocco. Against this backdrop, information has emerged about a private visit by the King of Morocco to the UAE, possibly to discuss a potential deal for the Mirage 2000-9.

However, the UAE itself has previously stated that it is ready to sell its aircraft no earlier than 2027, when it receives the ordered Rafale F4. The contract for their supply was signed in 2021.

France, for its part, is actively lobbying for the sale of the Mirage 2000-9, although it does not formally own the aircraft. According to Defense Express, this activity is more related to Paris' own geopolitical interests.

Against this background, a logical conclusion arises: if the situation around these aircraft is so confusing, France could transfer them in one form or another to Ukraine to help in the war.

Source: Opex360