The issues were discussed during a conversation between Ukraine’s Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and France’s Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, Catherine Vautrin. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence said the talks focused on practical steps to strengthen air defence.
Fedorov thanked France for its consistent support for Ukraine. He also highlighted French support for radar-related capabilities, describing radars as a critical component of air defence.
The ministers discussed support for radar procurement through the European Union loan facility before the end of this year. Ukraine said faster progress is important because radars improve the ability to detect aerial threats.
The Ukrainian side also thanked France for its efforts to counter Russia’s shadow fleet. Ukraine said the fleet remains one of the instruments used to finance the war against Ukraine.
Aster-30 missiles were another focus of the discussion. Ukraine described them as one of the urgent priorities for strengthening its air defence.
Ukraine said it is ready to intensify work with France on the processes related to radars and Aster 30 missiles. The aim is to provide additional protection for Ukrainian cities this year, before the onset of winter.
The parties also discussed the possible supply of SAMP/T NG systems to Ukraine. Ukraine and France agreed to examine the issue further to ensure that support for Ukrainian air defence is as effective as possible.
Fedorov stressed the importance of directing resources, including the European Union loan facility, towards strategic projects that can help stop Russia. He said this requires coordinated efforts by all partners and a focus on Ukraine’s critical priorities.
One such priority is scaling up drone production, including under the drone deal between Ukraine and France. The localisation of French weapons production in Ukraine for the needs of the Defence Forces is also being considered.
The ministry said Ukraine’s air defence continues to protect the population and critical infrastructure despite record pressure. It said every intercepted missile and drone saves civilian lives, reduces destruction and disrupts enemy plans.
Ukraine previously reported that its air defences intercepted nearly 92 percent of drones used in large-scale attacks in May. The ministry said this underlines the importance of further strengthening radar, missile and drone-related capabilities.
