The document covers 100 Rafale F4 aircraft for Ukraine’s combat aviation by 2035 and also includes SAMP/T air defence systems, air defence radars, air to air missiles, and aerial bombs. It also sets out options for technology transfer and joint aircraft production with localisation in Ukraine.
“I am very grateful to France from my very first visit. I thank Emmanuel Macron and all the French people. But this moment is something significant and truly historic for both our nations. New aircraft, new reinforcement, new steps to strengthen our army and our country,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. His remarks followed announcements that the two countries will also co produce interceptor drones and develop critical technologies for Ukrainian unmanned systems.
Joint projects between the Ukrainian and French defence industries will begin this year. Macron said the cooperation covers several timelines and remains vital regardless of future developments.
“This is a short-term, medium-term, and long-term perspective. And all of it is necessary. Even if peace were signed tomorrow, this would still be essential, because the guarantee of that peace is a strong Ukrainian army able to hold its ground. These capabilities will provide that,” Emmanuel Macron emphasized. Before signing the declaration, the leaders met with heads of French defence companies who presented technical data, operating features, and production capacities.
