If the Ukrainians still do not have Leclerc tanks and aircraft, they will receive new “Caesar” guns. At the end of a meeting in Paris on Tuesday, Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu and his counterpart Oleksii Reznikov outlined the help France will continue to offer to Kiev to defend against a Russian invasion. The €200 million support fund, set up last year,will enable twelve Caesar’s guns”declared the Minister of Armed Forces, delighted that the manufacturer Nexter had succeeded “increase its production capacity”.. The delivery schedule remains to be determined. Thanks to this support fund, Kiev will also be able to purchase a GM 200 medium-range radar manufactured by Thales.
One of the 18 Caesar guns already delivered is faulty. The remaining 17 have “needs maintenance” conditioned “battle or classic wear and tear on equipment” Sebastian Lecornu continued. To this list must be added the 19 “Caesar” pistols connected with the order from Denmark, which Copenhagen will finally deliver to Ukraine. From now on “We are in a mass that has nothing insignificant.” insisted the minister. To complete the picture, he announced the delivery of fuel and recalled the agreement signed with Australia the day before to produce 155 mm ammunition. In addition, 150 French soldiers will be sent to Poland to carry out training missions for the benefit of the Ukrainian army. “The goal is to train 600 soldiers per month.” he explained.
Alexiy Reznikov repeatedly thanked France for its support. But he did not hide that his “Santa’s List” it was still long. With Sébastien Lecornu, he discussed his needs for fighter jets, without specifying the type of equipment, he said, so as not to reignite the debate over the delivery of the Mirage 2000. But he’s clearly looking to start a movement. “No Taboos” replied Sébastien Lecornu, admitting that a discussion could begin. But, behind the scenes, there are currently no plans to provide these devices within the armies. If the Ukrainian pilots use the MiGs, the operation of the Mirage will require a long training. US President Joe Biden has also ruled out the supply of F-16s for now. “I’m optimistic” However, assured Oleksiy Reznikov, recalling the previous hesitation of Western countries about artillery or tanks.
Source: Le Figaro
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