Ukraine has agreed to acquire 16 Rafale fighter jets from France, along with accompanying weapon systems. The agreement includes the acquisition of SAMP/T NG air-defense batteries and radar systems.
The deal is part of a broader effort to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses, which have been depleted by Russian ballistic-missile attacks. Ukraine has also agreed to licensing agreements for the production of various missile systems in the country.
The first Rafale jets are expected to be delivered in 2028 or 2029, with training for Ukrainian pilots to begin in the coming months. This acquisition is part of Ukraine's efforts to modernize its air force and compensate for the loss of Soviet-era aircraft.
