The UAE is transferring fighter jets to African nations, but France decides who benefits

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The United Arab Emirates is retiring its Dassault Mirage 2000‑9 fighter jets as it prepares to take delivery of new Rafale F4 multirole fighters from France, part of one of the largest Rafale export orders globally.

The UAE is decommissioning its Dassault Mirage 2000-9 fighter jets as new Rafale F4 jets are introduced
The transfer of the Mirage fleet to other nations, such as Morocco, requires France's approval under original manufacturing agreements
Morocco's potential acquisition of the Mirage 2000-9E jets would enhance its air force amidst regional security challenges
France plays a significant role in the strategic decisions of African air force modernization by controlling the approvals of advanced military hardware transfers.

This gives Paris a central role as a gatekeeper of advanced military hardware on the continent.

Military Africa reports that in December 2021, the UAE signed an $18 billion deal with France for 80 Rafale F4 jets and 12 military helicopters, the largest international Rafale order since 2004.

Since then, countries including Ethiopia, Egypt, and Morocco have been mentioned as potential recipients of the UAE’s used Mirage 2000s, which would complement Morocco’s fleet of F-16s and upgraded Mirage F1s.

Earlier reports by LeDesk and Army Recognition indicate that any transfer of the UAE’s fighter jets to other nations remains subject to French approval.

While France has reportedly given approval in principle, as of early 2026 there is no official confirmation that the transfer has taken place, and the delivery schedule remains linked to the UAE’s Rafale F4 acquisition timeline.

Pending these developments, the actual handover of the Mirage 2000‑9E jets could potentially occur shortly after 2027, depending on logistical arrangements and regulatory clearances.

For Morocco, acquiring these jets would strengthen a fleet already operating F‑16s and modernised Mirage F1s, enhancing Rabat’s capabilities amid regional security dynamics, particularly with Algeria, which fields significant Russian-made aircraft.

France’s role as gatekeeper shapes African air force modernisation

Paris can approve, delay, or condition transfers, effectively deciding which nations gain access to advanced air platforms.

Ethiopia has sought to modernise its air force to replace ageing Soviet-era jets, though prior talks with France on Mirage or Rafale purchases stalled amid domestic political tensions.

In practice, the UAE’s Mirage transfers demonstrate a broader reality: France continues to influence African military modernisation, even as Gulf partners participate in regional defence cooperation.

Through contractual controls on aircraft transfers, Paris retains leverage over African air forces, reaffirming its role as a pivotal security actor in the region.

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