In a rapid-fire series of diplomatic victories, Ukraine is moving to secure a massive new air force from European partners. Less than a month after signing a letter of intent with Sweden for 150 Saab fighter jets, President Volodymyr Zelensky has finalized a similar preliminary deal with France for as many as 100 Dassault Rafale jets. This “twin-track” approach to procurement highlights Kyiv’s strategy of building a large, diverse, and modern air force by forging deep partnerships with European manufacturers.
The “historical” 10-year agreement with France was signed during Zelensky’s trip to Paris and was hailed as a “special moment” for both nations. The deal goes beyond the Rafale jets, including a comprehensive package of air defense systems, radars, and drones. This holistic approach is designed to create a robust shield against the intensified Russian air strikes that have ravaged Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure.
The back-to-back agreements with Sweden and France underscore a major geopolitical shift. With the Trump administration having halted US support and demanding European allies pay for American-supplied equipment, Ukraine has decisively pivoted to its European neighbors. These nations are now taking on the primary responsibility for financing and equipping Kyiv’s defense, using mechanisms like the EU’s SAFE fund and G7 plans for frozen Russian assets.
The new hardware is desperately needed to counter Russia’s aerial onslaught. Moscow’s increased use of missiles, drones, and glide bombs has inflicted a heavy toll. President Zelensky’s government has made acquiring more air defenses its top priority. The French deal includes eight units of the highly-capable SAMP/T system, which Zelensky praised as “one of the greatest” in the world, to help intercept these threats.
These European jets will join the F-16s already being supplied by NATO allies like Denmark and the Netherlands. The US State Department also recently approved F-16 training and services, ensuring that even as European airframes become the backbone of the future Ukrainian air force, the existing F-16 pipeline will continue to provide support.