France to train Ukrainian pilots to operate Rafale fighter jets

France has begun preparations to train the first group of Ukrainian pilots on French Rafale fighter jets ahead of a potential delivery of 16 aircraft in 2028-2029.

Source: European Pravda, citing Le Parisien

Details: This marks a new phase in France's military support for Kyiv and serves as a continuation of the 13 July statement, in which France and Ukraine announced the creation of a roadmap for Kyiv's acquisition of 16 Rafale fighters.

Benjamin Haddad, Minister Delegate for European Affairs, said that France is currently in negotiations with the Ukrainians regarding the supply of Rafale aircraft, which will be piloted not by the French, but by Ukrainian pilots, adding that Paris has already "begun work on preparing these pilots".

According to information disclosed in recent months, the first four aircraft could be delivered following the completion of the Ukrainian pilots' training course.

Under standard Air Force training programmes, pilots first train on trainer aircraft, such as the Grob G-120TP light plane and the twin-engine Dornier Alpha Jet trainers, before transitioning to advanced fighters.

Although the initial batch of 16 aircraft has already been approved, up to 100 Rafale jets could be ordered for the Ukrainian Air Force over the next 10 years. This is outlined in a letter signed on 17 November 2025 by Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Background:

• French President Emmanuel Macron announced that his country will grant Ukraine licences to produce French missiles.
• President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that around half of Ukraine's F-16 fighter jets spend extended periods in Europe undergoing repairs and maintenance.

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