DefenseFrance and Ukraine sign letter of intent for up to 100 Rafale fighters
French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a letter of intent in Paris on November 17th, allowing Ukraine to acquire up to 100 Dassault Rafale fighter jets.
The agreement is designed to enhance Ukraine’s air combat capabilities as the country continues to face Russian military aggression. The deal also includes the procurement of relevant armaments, such as SCALP cruise missiles and AASM Hammer precision-guided bombs.
Initial deliveries of the Rafale aircraft are not expected before 2029, with the full fleet anticipated to be operational by 2035. The pact further encompasses the acquisition of new SAMP/T air defense systems and Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles.
French President Emmanuel Macron described the agreement as “a step forward in the next phase of cooperation with Kyiv and an example of the excellence of the French defense industry.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the letter of intent “a historic agreement that will substantially strengthen Ukraine’s air capabilities.”
The commitment is considered a political act rather than a commercial contract, as was the case with the Memorandum of Understanding signed by Zelensky with the Swedish government for up to 150 Saab Gripen E fighter jets.
About the Author
Ricardo Meier
Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.
