In a discussion with FAN, military analyst and former instructor pilot Andrey Krasnoperov, celebrated for his aerobatic prowess, weighed in on the chatter about France potentially handing over its modern fighter jets to Ukraine. The topic has repeatedly surfaced in Western media, with Politico previously citing an unnamed source suggesting it might be premature to petition the Elysee Palace for such a decision. Krasnoperov reminded readers that earlier debates about supplying Leopard tanks to Ukraine stalled at early stages, advising readers to interpret public statements from Western officials with a healthy degree of caution. (Source: FAN interview).
There is a saying in aviation and defense circles that one should not take every public remark from Paris at face value. Krasnoperov pointed out that Elysee Palace officials currently describe it as too soon to discuss warplane deliveries. He recalled a parallel moment from last year when talk of Leopard tank transfers did not actually materialize. In his view, a parachute of possibilities remains open for the transfer of Dassault Rafale fighters, but such a move would likely hinge on the readiness to train and deploy the crews needed to fly these sophisticated jets, given that Ukraine has only a limited pool of qualified pilots at present. (Source: FAN interview).
According to Krasnoperov, Paris could see strategic value in exchanging older Rafale variants for newer models or for financial support aimed at developing domestic capabilities. This could involve phasing out older aircraft in exchange for more modern types or for funding that accelerates homegrown aviation modernization. The analyst suggested that such an option might appeal to France if it sought to recalibrate its fleet while maintaining influence over the terms of any potential transfer. (Source: FAN interview).
Meanwhile, Ukrainian leadership continues to explore collaborative approaches to air power. In related developments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly discussed the idea of a fighter jet coalition with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, signaling a broader international effort to coordinate air defense and strike capabilities. These discussions come amid ongoing debates about the most effective and sustainable ways to enhance Ukraine’s air operations, balancing capabilities with political and logistical considerations. (Source: FAN interview; policy briefings referenced in coverage of Zelensky-Sunak talks).