Ukraine is actively building a powerful and diverse future air force, moving to acquire advanced fighter jets from multiple European partners in addition to its existing F-16 commitments. The latest move in this strategy is a landmark letter of intent with France for the purchase of as many as 100 Dassault Rafale jets. This deal follows less than a month after Ukraine signed a similar agreement with Sweden for the potential supply of 150 Saab fighter jets, signaling a clear strategy of multi-sourcing its aerial power.
This diversification is a crucial element of Kyiv’s long-term defense planning. By securing jets from France, Sweden, and American partners via NATO allies, Ukraine avoids dependence on a single supplier. This multi-pronged approach also prepares its air force to integrate and operate various advanced Western platforms, creating a more resilient and flexible force. These new acquisitions will supplement the F-16 fighter jets already being supplied by nations like Denmark and the Netherlands, with the US State Department having approved F-16 training and services earlier in the year.
The “historical” 10-year pact with France, signed by President Zelensky in Paris, also includes other vital components for a modern air defense network. The agreement covers the purchase of ground-based air defense systems, new radar technology, and drones. Zelensky specifically highlighted the French SAMP/T system as “one of the greatest” in the world and confirmed Ukraine would receive eight units, further building out a layered defense shield.
This rapid modernization is driven by existential need. Russia has dramatically stepped up its air war, launching relentless attacks with missiles, drones, and devastating glide bombs. These strikes have targeted civilian centers and systematically attacked the country’s energy grid, threatening widespread blackouts. President Zelensky’s primary mission has been to secure the tools to stop these attacks, and a modernized air force is the ultimate counter.
The shift towards European suppliers like France and Sweden has been accelerated by the halt in aid from the United States under the Trump administration. This has placed the onus of responsibility squarely on European allies, who are now using mechanisms like the EU’s SAFE fund and G7 plans for frozen Russian assets to finance these critical, long-term defense commitments for Kyiv.