France To Begin Training Ukrainian Pilots on Rafale This Year

Training for Ukrainian pilots and mechanics to operate Rafale fighter jets is set to begin in France this year.

This was announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

According to him, once training is complete, the first four Rafale jets will be delivered to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Plans also call for the purchase of the first 16 French Rafale fighter jets for the Ukrainian Air Force, along with the necessary armaments.

Ukraine is expected to receive the first aircraft of this type in 2028-2029.

In November 2025, plans were reported to order 100 French Rafale fighter jets to strengthen the Ukrainian Air Force.

Ukraine is currently expanding its defense cooperation with France. In particular, France will transfer two more SAMP/T systems to Ukraine.