Ukraine orders first 16 Rafale fighter jets from France
Photo: French Dassault Rafale multirole fighter jet (Getty Images)
Ukraine has taken the first step toward rearming its air force, with France confirming an order for Rafale fighter jets and new defense cooperation projects, according to a joint declaration by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Ukraine and France have approved a military-technical cooperation roadmap that includes the delivery of Rafale fighter jets, advanced air and missile defense systems, and the launch of licensed production of French weapons in Ukraine.
First Rafales for Ukraine
Ukraine has officially ordered the first 16 Rafale fighter jets from France as part of a 100-aircraft program agreed by the two countries in November 2025.
Training for Ukrainian pilots and maintenance personnel could begin as early as 2026. After the training phase is completed, the Ukrainian Armed Forces are expected to receive the first four aircraft.
Alongside the fighters, France will provide a broad weapons package, including MICA and Meteor missiles, AASM guided bombs, laser-guided counter-drone missiles, and other air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions.
In addition, France will allow licensed production of AASM guided bombs and SCALP cruise missiles in Ukraine by the end of 2026.
New air defense systems and missile production
A separate section of the declaration focuses on strengthening Ukraine's air and missile defense capabilities.
Ukraine has ordered four next-generation Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG systems and will become the first country to deploy them in combat.
By the end of 2026, France will deploy a GF300 radar in Ukraine as the first component of a new air defense network. Until the SAMP/T NG systems are delivered, Paris will provide two SAMP/T batteries for interim use.
Ukraine is also expected to receive five GM400 radars by the end of 2027, while France and Italy will accelerate deliveries of Aster 30 missiles, with transfers scheduled to be completed by October 2026.
France and Italy will also authorize licensed production of Aster 30 missiles in Ukraine. Separately, Paris will support the development of Ukrainian anti-ballistic interceptor missiles, including the FREYJA project, with the participation of French defense companies.
On July 13, an anti-ballistic missile coalition was established during a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing in Paris, with Ukraine among its members.
Ten European countries will work together to develop missile defense systems and create new capabilities for intercepting ballistic missiles.
