Two French Air Force Mirage 2000D fighter jets skimmed over the Niger-Mali border, looking down from the sky, they were still over the desert, and ahead, within Mali's territory, some greenery could faintly be seen.
The lead pilot glanced at the altitude, which showed 4200 meters.
He reported his position to the airbase, informing them that he was about to cross the national border.
For the French, moving freely between Niger and Mali's airspace was very simple; all that was required was to notify the governments of both countries.
Neither Niger nor Mali's rulers would make any objections to this.
This was an advantage of once being a colonial master.
After routinely reporting the flight group's position, the pilot of the lead aircraft and the wingman started a casual conversation.
"Scabbard 2, let's climb above 3000 meters later."
"Are you worried about their man-portable air defense systems?"
"Better safe than sorry, I heard they've got Stingers."
