Ukraine to Buy Up to 100 Rafale Fighter Jets From France in Major Defence Deal
Paris, Nov 17 — Ukraine has signed a major defence agreement with France to purchase up to 100 Rafale fighter jets, advanced SAMP/T air-defence systems, drones and other military equipment over the next decade, as Kyiv seeks to boost its long-term security amid the ongoing war with Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron announced the letter of intent on Monday at the Élysée Palace, calling it a significant step in strengthening Ukraine’s air power.
“This is a historic deal,” Zelenskyy said. “Ukraine will be able to receive 100 Rafale fighter jets and eight SAMP/T air-defence systems with six launchers each. This strategic agreement will operate for the next 10 years.”
Macron described the deal as “a new step forward” in defence cooperation, confirming that the package includes latest-generation Rafale jets, full armament, training programmes and production support.
Why Rafale Fighter Jets Matter for Ukraine
The Rafale, France’s most advanced multi-role combat aircraft, is valued at over USD 100 million per unit and is known for its manoeuvrability, precision and combat versatility. It has been used in French operations across Africa and the Middle East.
The defence package also includes:
- Drones and drone-interceptor systems
- Guided bombs
- Next-generation SAMP/T ground-to-air systems
- Training for Ukrainian pilots and maintenance crews
France expects the first deliveries within three years, though no specific schedule for Rafale jets has been confirmed.
French officials say the SAMP/T batteries already supplied to Ukraine have performed better than U.S. Patriot systems against difficult-to-intercept Russian missiles.
Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer, has sold more than 500 Rafale jets worldwide to countries such as India, Egypt, Qatar, Greece and the UAE.
Ukraine Strengthens Its Air Fleet
Zelenskyy’s visit comes as Ukraine tries to defend its energy infrastructure from intensified Russian attacks during the winter. The country is building a diverse fleet of modern Western aircraft.
Recent steps include:
- A Sweden-Ukraine agreement exploring the purchase of up to 150 Gripen jets
- Delivery of U.S.-made F-16s
- Deployment of French Mirage aircraft
“We are building a very serious fleet for Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said. Pilots already trained on Mirage jets are expected to transition to Rafales more quickly.
France, Allies Prepare Ceasefire Support Force
Earlier in the day, Macron and Zelenskyy visited a Paris-area air base and later the Mont Valérien headquarters of a multinational force being prepared by France, the U.K. and more than 30 partner nations. The force could deploy to Ukraine to help monitor and enforce a future ceasefire.
Russia has so far rejected calls for a ceasefire, with President Vladimir Putin pushing ahead with battlefield operations.
Funding Still Under Discussion
Kyiv is urging European partners to use frozen Russian assets to finance the new defence package. The EU has yet to reach a final agreement.
Zelenskyy remains on a European tour, having visited Greece on Sunday to discuss U.S. LNG supplies and scheduled to travel to Spain on Tuesday.
