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Ukraine signed a letter of intent on November 17 to buy up to 100 Rafale fighter jets, drones, air defense systems and other critical equipment from France over the next 10 years, as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s long-term security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed the document with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysée presidential palace. “It will be the greatest air defense, one of the greatest in the world,“ Zelenskyy told reporters at France’s Villacoublay military airport.

Macron praised the defense partnership “a new step forward” in the France-Ukraine relationship. “With this agreement, we continue to invest in bringing our defense industries closer together,” Macron said during a joint press conference with Zelenskyy.

The agreement includes France’s 100 latest-generation Rafale jet fighters with full armament, as well as accompanying training and production programs. It also includes drones, drone interceptors, air defense radars, guided bombs, and eight next-generation SAMP/T ground-to-air missile systems, each with six launching systems.

One of the most productive visits this year – and certainly a new level in relations between Ukraine and France. We have a historic agreement on a new fleet of fighter jets for our country – 100 Rafale aircraft. And this is one of the best aircraft that can be used for our… pic.twitter.com/3aYHAfQCGh

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 17, 2025

“This is a strategic agreement that will work for 10 years, starting next year,” Zelenskyy said, calling it a “historic deal” that would strengthen Ukraine’s combat aviation and air defense capabilities.

Immediate and Long-Term Military Support

The French government emphasized that the letter of intent is a political commitment rather than an immediate purchase contract. Funding is expected to come from European Union programs and the potential use of frozen Russian assets, pending EU approval.

Deliveries of equipment, including drones, drone interceptors, and guided munitions, are expected within the next three years.

Macron highlighted that the agreement is designed to provide Ukraine with both short-term operational capabilities and long-term readiness. “We’re planning Rafales, 100 Rafales – that’s huge. That’s what’s needed for the regeneration of the Ukrainian military,” Macron said. The acquisition of the new-generation SAMP/T air defense batteries and AASM Hammer air-to-surface munitions was also confirmed.

Strengthening Ukraine’s Air Defenses

The announcement comes as Ukraine faces sustained Russian drone and missile attacks, with Moscow reporting advances in the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region.

Chief of the French defense staff, Air Force Gen. Fabien Mandon said that Ukraine’s SAMP/T systems have proven effective against Russian missiles, outperforming U.S.-made Patriot batteries in some instances. “We helped Ukraine by deploying missile and drone interception systems called the SAMP/T system,” he said.

The Russians adapted the flight profiles of their most advanced missiles because they realized they were being intercepted,” Mandon explained. He added that immediate additional air defenses are needed to counter approximately 1,700 drone attacks per week.

Coalition of the willing and European Security

France, together with Britain, has been preparing a coalition of more than 30 countries to provide troops and assets to Ukraine or along its western borders once a ceasefire is established. Both leaders visited a French air base and the headquarters of this “coalition of the willing” ahead of the signing ceremony.

Macron noted that the force would be deployed away from the front lines to safeguard Ukrainian sovereignty and deter renewed Russian attacks. “I want to say here, and the discussions we have had have shown this, that we are ready, that the work is progressing at full speed, and that by Christmas we will have passed a new and decisive stage in this matter,” Macron said.

Economic and Strategic Cooperation beyond Defense

In addition to military support, the agreement covers broader strategic cooperation. Macron welcomed a $550 million contract between Alstom and the Ukrainian Railway Company for the supply of 55 locomotives, financed by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the World Bank. He also noted intergovernmental agreements covering energy, transport, water, and defense sectors.

“This agreement demonstrates France’s determination to place its industrial and technological excellence at the service of Ukraine’s defense and therefore at the service of Europe,” Macron said. He emphasized the importance of predictable and long-term EU financial support for Ukraine.

Operating the advanced Rafale jets will require time, as pilots must undergo a rigorous training program. The letter of intent includes full training and production programs, as well as the acquisition of complete armament. The first deliveries are expected over the next three years, while the 10-year plan aims to fully integrate Ukraine’s air force with advanced French systems.

Our meeting today with @EmmanuelMacron strengthens our defense with effective, practical, and powerful elements. Agreements have been prepared – and the relevant documents are being signed today – to significantly boost our defense capabilities.

Ukraine will be able to receive… pic.twitter.com/oaaqqpr9T2

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 17, 2025

The Rafale deal follows other defense agreements, including Ukraine’s recent discussions with Sweden over 150 Gripen fighter jets and previous acquisitions of U.S.-made F-16s and French Mirage aircraft. These deals aim to bolster Ukrainian defenses as the country faces renewed Russian attacks, particularly targeting energy infrastructure during the winter months.

Macron stressed the importance of European unity alongside the U.S. and other partners in applying pressure on Russia. “A strong, democratic Ukraine, integrated into the Union, will also make Europe stronger,” he said.

The French president added that Ukraine’s path toward EU integration remains demanding, requiring reforms in governance, transparency, and the rule of law.

The latest deal represents a dual commitment to Ukraine’s immediate defense needs and long-term strategic resilience. With French Rafales, SAMP/T air defense systems, drones, and munitions, Kyiv aims to significantly strengthen its air capabilities while preparing for future security challenges.

The agreement underscores France’s role as a key European defense partner and highlights ongoing efforts to support Ukraine amid a protracted conflict.