France Moves to Begin Rafale Training for Ukrainian Pilots Ahead of First Jet Deliveries

France is preparing to begin initial training for Ukrainian pilots who are expected to transition to Rafale fighter jets, as Kyiv moves toward adding the French-made aircraft to its combat aviation fleet.

According to Le Figaro on September 13, France plans to launch the first stage of training for Ukrainian aircrews as part of preparations for the future operation of Rafale fighters.

France has several aircraft available for the early stages of the training pipeline, including GROB G 120TP trainers and Dornier Alpha Jet advanced training aircraft. These platforms allow pilots to develop skills in aircraft handling, navigation, and elements of air combat before moving to frontline fighter aircraft.

Training for Ukrainian pilots and maintenance personnel on the Rafale is expected to begin in France in 2026. The program would prepare both aircrews and ground personnel to operate and support the aircraft.

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War in Ukraine

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The first four Rafale fighters are expected to be transferred to the Ukrainian Air Force after the initial training program is completed. Plans also call for Ukraine to acquire an initial batch of 16 Rafale fighters together with the weapons and equipment required for their operation.

The first aircraft are expected to arrive in Ukraine in 2028–2029.

The program forms part of a broader effort to expand Ukraine’s Western-built fighter fleet. In November 2025, plans were reported for the potential acquisition of as many as 100 French Rafale fighters to strengthen Ukraine’s Air Force over the longer term.

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