What Happened
Paris Supports Ukrainian Air Force Modernization Amid Conflict
France has initiated training for Ukrainian pilots to operate the Dassault Rafale fighter jet, with the first deliveries contingent upon the completion of this training. The move is part of Ukraine’s broader effort to modernize its air force, with an order for 16 initial Rafale aircraft announced in July 2026. The training program follows France’s previous experience in training Ukrainian pilots for the Mirage 2000-5, and it is unfolding alongside a separate initiative to supply Ukraine with Swedish Gripen fighters. According to AeroTime, the training is expected to pave the way for the Rafale’s operational deployment in Ukrainian airspace by 2028 and 2029.