Greece faces challenges in selling its 24 Mirage 2000-5 fighters after France declined to purchase them, a deal that would have helped finance the acquisition of additional Rafale jets for the Hellenic Air Force.
Despite past discussions with potential buyers, including India, no serious interest has materialized for the purchase of these jets.
Recent reports indicate that Ukraine had expressed interest in acquiring the aircraft, but Greece opted not to pursue the deal, as the Mirage 2000-5 remains a critical component of the country’s air defense, at least until more Rafale jets are secured. Athens is not willing to donate the aircraft, but instead seeks to sell them to fund new acquisitions.
France’s reluctance to buy back the Mirage 2000-5, which could have been redirected to Ukraine, indicates that Paris is phasing out the aircraft from its own air force in favor of the Rafale.
Moreover, the FOS (Follow-On Support) agreement for the aircraft is set to expire in 2027, and it remains uncertain whether it will be renewed, as the company intends to cease support for this aircraft type and shift its focus entirely to the Rafale.