Ukraine is assembling the ultimate “sky shield,” combining three different Western fighter jets and advanced ground-based interceptors. A new “historical” 10-year pact with France adds 100 Rafale jets and eight “world-class” SAMP/T air defense systems to its future arsenal. This comes on top of a recent deal for 150 Swedish Saab jets and the ongoing delivery of F-16s from NATO allies.
This “arsenal of democracy,” sourced from multiple partners, will create a redundant and multi-layered defense network. The F-16s, Saabs, and Rafales will provide a flexible fighter fleet, while the SAMP/T and Patriot systems will form a robust ground-based shield. This comprehensive approach is designed to counter every aspect of Russia’s intensified air war, from drones and missiles to glide bombs.
The new 10-year French pact, signed by President Zelensky in Paris, is a cornerstone of this strategy. It provides a long-term, stable pipeline of advanced French technology. The deal also includes new radars for early warning and a plan for the joint production of interceptor drones, further enhancing Ukraine’s capabilities.
This massive military modernization has been made possible by European allies, who have stepped up as US aid was halted by the Trump administration. The financing for the French deal will come from the EU’s €150 billion SAFE loan fund and a G7 mechanism to use revenues from frozen Russian assets.
The logistical challenge of integrating and maintaining this diverse fleet of hardware will be immense. However, it is a challenge Kyiv must overcome. With Russia’s relentless attacks, building this comprehensive, multi-sourced “sky shield” is not a choice, but a matter of national survival.