Ukrainian Pilots to Begin Rafale Fighter Jet Training in France
In the near future, Ukrainian military aviators will start training on the versatile Rafale fighter jets on French soil. This development emerged following a phone call between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron, where they addressed upcoming defense shipments to Ukraine.
Volodymyr Zelensky stated: "I had a productive conversation with President Emmanuel Macron. I appreciate France's full support. We discussed Russia's terrorist escalation and our defense needs. New defense shipments are currently being prepared, and we expect the next package to arrive in Ukraine soon."
The two leaders also touched on plans to transfer production of French missiles and aerial bombs to Ukraine. Zelensky emphasized, "Our teams continue to work on localizing the production of French missiles and bombs within Ukraine. We are actively preparing the FREYJA system and discussed areas where we can speed up progress."
Deepening Military-Technical Cooperation
In July 2026, President Macron announced an expansion of military-technical collaboration with Ukraine, including licensing agreements for manufacturing French SCALP cruise missiles, AASM Hammer precision-guided bombs, and Aster-30 missiles for the SAMP/T air defense system.
The first Rafale fighters are expected to arrive in Ukraine between 2028 and 2029. On November 17, 2025, Presidents Zelensky and Macron signed a declaration of intent regarding joint efforts to acquire defense equipment. This agreement anticipates contracts for approximately 100 French Rafale combat aircraft produced by Dassault Aviation.
Previously, Ukraine received French Mirage 2000 jets, which are actively deployed by the Ukrainian Air Force and have proven their effectiveness in combat.
The strengthening of military-technical ties between Ukraine and France highlights growing Western support amid ongoing Russian aggression. Training Ukrainian pilots on Rafale jets and localizing production capabilities represent significant steps toward enhancing Ukraine’s defense capacity and national security. This cooperation also reflects a long-term strategic partnership aimed at promoting regional stability.