Zelensky Unveils Major Fighter Jet Deals

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky outlined sweeping military, economic and social developments, saying Kyiv has secured major fighter jet supply agreements, is rapidly expanding its drone industry across Europe, and is building air-defense capabilities from the ground up despite fighting a full-scale war.

Fighter Jets and Air Force Modernization

Zelensky said Ukraine has already reached agreements for the supply of between 50 and 100 Gripen fighter jets, as well as 100 Rafale aircraft, which he described as “the best aircraft in the world” from Ukraine’s perspective. He added that F-16s are already part of the Ukrainian Air Force inventory.

In total, Zelensky said Ukraine will receive 250 new aircraft, underscoring what he portrayed as a comprehensive modernization of the country’s air force during wartime.

Building Air Defense From Zero

Reflecting on the early stages of the war, Zelensky said Ukraine initially had only 25 S-300 air-defense systems. He contrasted this with the 1990s, when Kyiv alone had around 250 air-defense systems.

“Today we are building our own air-defense industry from zero — during war,” he said, framing domestic production as both a strategic necessity and a long-term investment in national security.

Drone Industry and Export Ambitions

Zelensky also highlighted Ukraine’s growing drone sector, saying 10 export centers across Europe will be operational by 2026 to support Ukrainian drone exports. He added that Ukrainian drone production lines would already be active in Germany by February.

According to Zelensky, the drone industry could generate between 300 and 500 billion over the next decade, positioning it as a cornerstone of Ukraine’s future economy and defense ecosystem.

Voluntary Patriotism and Mobility

Addressing social issues, Zelensky rejected claims of coercion, saying Ukraine has “no slavery” despite being at war. He emphasized that people who are not of mobilization age retain the right to leave the country and cannot be forced to return.

“People return when they truly love Ukraine,” he said, adding that returns are driven by conditions, prospects, work opportunities and dignity rather than pressure or rhetoric.

Social Media and the Modern World

Zelensky also dismissed the idea of banning social media, arguing that such a move would isolate society from the modern world.

“You are so alone on the iceberg,” he said, warning that abandoning digital platforms would cut people off from global interaction and reality.

Taken together, Zelensky’s remarks portray a country seeking to combine military modernization, economic expansion and social openness, even as it continues to fight a protracted war.