Ukraine aims high with aviation modernisation plan
Ukraine’s Soviet-era combat aircraft fleet is overdue for modernisation, as Kiev seeks to spend big on buying from Western suppliers.
The Ukrainian Air Force plans an ambitious fixed-wing aviation modernisation programme, with procurement of new Western-made platforms as well as upgrades to MiG-29s (pictured) and potential development of an indigenous fighter aircraft in the longer term.
A focus on combat aviation is a major priority for the Ukrainian MoD. Col Gen Sergei Drozdov, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, warned recently that the aircraft fleet is outdated with most platforms expected to reach the end of their service life in the next ten to 12 years.
‘Currently we are talking about both the moral and physical obsolescence of the Ukrainian
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)]()
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
![US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist]()
US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist
The USAF is looking for commercial avionics solutions to improve the T-38 Talon’s reliability, readiness and flight safety as continued T-7A Red Hawk delays increase the likelihood that the legacy trainer will remain in service longer than planned.
-
![British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty]()
British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty
The UK’s choice of the Tekever AR5 for Project Corvus reflects a wider shift in military drone procurement towards solutions that centre on sovereignty and domestic production, moving away from overseas reliance.
-
![FIA 2026: KAI to offer T-50 jet trainer to UK Royal Air Force]()
FIA 2026: KAI to offer T-50 jet trainer to UK Royal Air Force
Another contender for the Royal Air Force's future Hawk trainer replacement programme has emerged, with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) putting forward its T-50 as a proven solution that could be manufactured in the UK.
