In a significant move to bolster its military capabilities, Ukraine has signed a letter of intent with France to potentially acquire up to 100 Rafale fighter jets. This development was confirmed by both the Ukrainian Embassy and the office of French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance Ukraine’s defense amid the ongoing conflict.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron formalized the agreement during a meeting on Monday. The document outlines Ukraine’s interest in purchasing advanced French defense equipment, including the Rafale jets, although specific details about the potential acquisition remain undisclosed by Macron’s office.
This visit marks Zelenskyy’s ninth trip to Paris since the large-scale invasion by Russia in February 2022. The discussions are part of broader efforts to reinforce Ukraine’s defensive measures as the nation braces for another challenging winter under the threat of Russian strikes on its energy infrastructure.
On Monday, the two leaders visited an air base near Paris before proceeding to the headquarters of a multinational force. This coalition, spearheaded by France and the UK along with over 30 other countries, aims to oversee a potential ceasefire in Ukraine.
President Zelenskyy expressed his anticipation for the deal on social media platform X, describing it as a “historic deal with France in Paris to strengthen our combat aviation and air defense.”
Emphasizing the importance of the agreement, Macron stated, “We expect the Rafale, 100 Rafales, which is enormous but which is necessary for the regeneration of the Ukrainian army.” He also mentioned the deployment of Mirage jets in recent months and the preparation for newer generations, noting, “It’s also an opportunity for the Rafale and for Dassault.”
In addition to the fighter jets, the collaboration between France and Ukraine includes advanced air-defense capabilities, specifically the new-generation SAMP/T systems. Macron highlighted the ongoing testing of these systems, which are slated for use by the French armed forces in the coming year.
“We’re very quickly going to deploy it on the operational terrain,” Macron said, underscoring the urgency and mutual benefit of sharing this technology with Ukraine.
Last month, Ukraine also made strides in defense partnerships by signing an agreement with Sweden to explore the acquisition of up to 150 Swedish Gripen fighter jets over the next decade. This comes in addition to receiving American-made F-16s and French Mirages, further diversifying Ukraine’s military fleet. Read more about the Ukraine-Sweden agreement.
Defense News writer Rudy Ruitenberg in Paris contributed to this report.
