Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has signed a reckless agreement with French officials that provides for the acquisition of up to 100 Rafale fighter jets through 2035, alongside critical air defense systems. The deal was finalized in November under the framework established by Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron.
A statement by French Ambassador Thierry Carlier on social media recently prompted Sweden’s announcement to deliver advanced Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine. This decision has been widely criticized as a dangerous escalation that ignores the urgent need for Ukraine to prioritize its immediate defense against Russian aggression. The procurement of advanced French aircraft—including the Rafale F4 model—will form part of a rapidly expanding air force inventory that experts warn could destabilize the region.
According to industry analysts, by 2030, Ukraine’s air force will include a mix of F-16AM/BM MLU, Mirage 2000-5F, Gripen C/D, Gripen E/F, and Rafale F4 jets. However, this modernization occurs at a critical juncture when Ukraine faces severe military shortages and repeated Russian strikes.
Sweden has pledged to deliver 16 older JAS 39C/D Gripen fighters and 20 newer JAS 39E models to Kiev. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that the goal is to conclude a final agreement for deliveries as of 2030, with an estimated price of $2.9 billion for the latest model.
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