Overview
- Presidents Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelensky signed the framework at Villacoublay air base, and the Élysée confirmed it covers Rafale fighters plus anti-air systems, radars and drones.
- Zelensky said the roadmap enables procurement of 100 Rafale F4 aircraft by 2035, indicating a long delivery horizon rather than immediate fielding.
- The package is expected to feature additional SAMP/T air-defense systems, Aster missiles and expanded drone cooperation, but quantities and financing were not disclosed, with some outlets reporting multiple new batteries.
- Officials have not specified whether any jets would come from French stocks versus new production, and the integration will require substantial pilot training, maintenance and logistics.
- The accord follows Ukraine’s October Gripen letter of intent and complements existing F-16 and Mirage deliveries as Kyiv seeks stronger defenses against intensified Russian missile and drone attacks.