Even as its pilots are still mastering the F-16, Ukraine has committed to a second, even more complex fighter jet program, signing a “historical” 10-year pact with France for 100 Rafale jets. This move, finalized by President Zelensky in Paris, will require Ukraine to establish a new, parallel training and logistics pipeline for the advanced French aircraft. The F-16s, supplied by NATO allies like Denmark and the Netherlands, are just the first step in this massive modernization.
The US State Department approved F-16 training and services in May, a program that is already in progress. The new French deal represents a massive expansion of this effort. A person familiar with the plans confirmed that the first Rafale deliveries are entirely contingent on how quickly this new training program can be established and the necessary ground infrastructure built.
This 10-year agreement with France is a comprehensive security package. It includes not just the Dassault-made jets but also eight “world-class” SAMP/T air defense systems, which Zelensky praised as “one of the greatest.” This combination of advanced ground- and air-based defenses is designed to counter Russia’s intensified air war.
This ambitious multi-fleet strategy has been driven by the halt of US aid under the Trump administration, forcing Kyiv to diversify its suppliers and rely on European partners. France and Sweden (with a 150-jet deal) are now the primary sources of Ukraine’s future air force.
Financing for the French deal will be handled by European-led mechanisms. The EU’s €150 billion SAFE loan fund and a G7 plan to use revenues from frozen Russian assets will provide the long-term funding, ensuring that Ukraine can build and sustain this new, complex, and powerful multi-fleet air arm.