French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a letter of intent on Monday. The agreement could allow Ukraine to get up to 100 Rafale fighter jets and a range of French air-defence systems, Reuters reported, citing the French presidency.
The deal is a major boost for Ukraine amid the war with Russia. It outlines potential contracts for 100 Rafale jets “with their associated weapons,” the next-generation SAMP-T air-defence system under development, radar systems, and drones.
The French presidency said the letter of intent is not a formal purchase contract. Full implementation is expected “over a timeframe of about 10 years.”
Zelenskyy Focuses on Long-Term Defence
Zelenskyy said the deal is part of Ukraine’s plan to strengthen its long-term military capability against Russia. He visited Paris as Russian missile and drone attacks have intensified. Moscow has also reported gains in southeastern Zaporizhzhia.
Macron’s office said the document shows Ukraine is considering French defence equipment, including Rafales. No further details were given. This visit is Zelenskyy’s ninth to Paris since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. He focuses on preparing Ukraine for another winter of Russian strikes on energy and infrastructure.
Leaders Visit Air Base and Discuss Coalition
Macron and Zelenskyy visited an air base near Paris. They then went to the headquarters of a multinational force called the “coalition of the willing.” France and Britain are forming it with more than 30 countries to help monitor any future ceasefire in Ukraine.
On Sunday, Zelenskyy wrote on X that he looked forward to a “historic deal with France in Paris to strengthen our combat aviation and air defense.” He later told French broadcaster TF1/LCI that he had ordered 100 Rafale jets. The Élysée confirmed the number but did not say if the jets would come from current stocks or new production.
TV footage showed Macron and Zelenskyy signing the letter of intent in front of a Rafale jet. French and Ukrainian flags stood behind them. Zelensky wrote on X: “A historic agreement has also been prepared with France — there will be a significant strengthening of our combat aviation, air defence, and other defence capabilities.”
France Plans to Boost Ukraine’s Air Defences
Paris has studied ways to reinforce Ukraine’s air defences. Macron’s government faces political and financial limits, but it pledged more support. Last month, France promised additional Mirage fighter jets and Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles for Ukraine’s SAMP/T batteries.
Sources said Rafale jets, built by Dassault, will form part of a 10-year strategic aviation plan. Some jets may come from French stocks, while most will be delivered later. Ukraine aims to expand its fleet to 250 warplanes, including U.S. F-16s and Sweden’s Gripen. Operating Rafale jets will require extensive pilot training.
Additional Air-Defence Systems Under Discussion
Zelensky’s visit could lead to deals for more SAMP/T air-defence systems. These may come from current French stocks or long-term next-generation orders, including missiles and anti-drone systems. The financing details remain unclear.
Macron’s office said the goal is to “put French excellence in the arms industry at the service of Ukraine’s defence” and ensure Kyiv can get what it needs to counter Russian attacks.
Meetings with Defence Companies and Coalition Plans
Zelensky will attend presentations by defence manufacturers, including Dassault. He will sign the letter of intent and contracts later. In the afternoon, French and Ukrainian drone companies will explore new cooperation.
France and Britain also push to create a coalition of 30 countries. These nations could deploy troops and assets to Ukraine or its western borders once a peace deal is signed. The aim is to give Ukraine long-term military and economic support to deter future Russian aggression.