Ukraine to Buy Rafale Jets, Air Defence Systems Under France Deal

Ukraine will purchase next-generation Franco-Italian air defence systems and French Rafale fighter jets under a France-led deal, using a European loan facility, officials said. On 14 July 2026, Kyiv and Paris formalised agreements that allow domestic licensed production of key Western missiles, alongside orders for an initial batch of 16 Rafales. This first tranche is part of a planned fleet of 100 announced in November 2025, financed through the EU’s Ukraine Support Loan programme. Training for Ukrainian pilots and mechanics could start in France in 2026, with the first four aircraft delivered after training. Ukraine also plans to acquire four SAMP/T-NG systems for air and missile defence, receiving two older versions meanwhile. Russia’s intensified missile and drone attacks are driving demand for more interceptors.