Zelenskyy reveals details of new Ukraine-France defence accord Fighter jets, air systems

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has unveiled the specifics of a newly signed defence cooperation agreement with France, revealing that the deal includes the purchase of 100 Rafale fighter jets, SAMP-T air defence systems, and joint defence projects aimed at strengthening Ukraine's military capabilities.

“Today marks a significant moment, truly historic for both our nations – France and Ukraine. Together with Emmanuel Macron, we signed a Declaration of Intent on Cooperation in the Acquisition of Defense Equipment for Ukraine,” Zelenskyy stated on X, Caliber.Az reports per Ukrainian media.

Today marks a significant moment, truly historic for both our nations – France and Ukraine. Together with Emmanuel Macron, we signed a Declaration of Intent on Cooperation in the Acquisition of Defense Equipment for Ukraine. This document enables Ukraine to procure military… pic.twitter.com/0qzG41IsnP

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

The agreement allows Ukraine to purchase military equipment from France’s defence industrial and technological base. Key provisions include the acquisition of 100 Rafale F4 fighter jets by 2035 for Ukraine’s combat aviation, SAMP-T air defence systems, radars for air defence systems, air-to-air missiles, and aerial bombs.

In addition to the equipment purchases, the two countries will also launch joint defence projects this year. These include the joint production of interceptor drones and the development of critical technologies and components for Ukrainian drones.

“New aircraft, new reinforcements, new steps to strengthen our army and our country. I am deeply grateful to France, President Emmanuel Macron, and all the French people,” Zelenskyy added.

The declaration also outlines potential future contracts for the acquisition of around 100 Rafale fighter jets, manufactured by Dassault Aviation, and other advanced weapons systems.

According to the Élysée Palace, the program is designed to span ten years, with plans to include the delivery of modern SAMP-T air defence systems (currently in the final stages of development), radar systems, and combat drones.

By Sabina Mammadli