India and France are nearing a major deal for 114 Rafale fighters ahead of French President Macron's visit in February 2026. The Indian Air Force is examining a government-to-government framework that would combine a large order with expanded local manufacturing, including a partnership between HAL and Safran for an engine production plant.
Ukraine has begun operating its Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets with French-supplied MICA medium-range air-to-air missiles, marking a significant upgrade to the aircraft's capabilities. This follows France's broader commitments to strengthen Ukraine's air and missile defense, including pilot training, maintenance assistance, and weapons integration.
Iraq may be near a deal with France for 14 Rafale F4 fighters, according to reports citing Iraqi sources. The package under discussion includes 10 single-seat and four two-seat variants, all delivered to the Rafale F4 standard.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, nearly 100 cadet pilots were trained during 2025 as part of a broader effort to expand and professionalize its aviation personnel pipeline. The ministry also reported issuing 437 state certificates to aviation personnel following qualification exams in 2025.
France has finalized an order for two GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft from Saab in a $1.3 billion contract. The deal includes ground equipment, training, and support, and deliveries are expected to take place between 2029 and 2032.
France has finalized a $1.3 billion USD contract with Saab to purchase two GlobalEye radar planes. The deal marks the second export customer for the aircraft, following the UAE's fleet of five.
France has advanced its next-generation aircraft carrier program to the realization phase, with President Emmanuel Macron confirming construction approval on December 21, 2025. The Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération (PANG) is expected to be significantly larger than the Charles de Gaulle and will feature US-developed electromagnetic aircraft launch systems.
France and Spain reaffirmed their commitment to the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, citing renewed cooperation and shared goals for European strategic autonomy. However, Germany declined to comment on the meeting, fueling concerns over the program's progress and potential industry disputes.