France and Ukraine Sign Long-Term Military Support Declaration Including Rafale and SAMP/T Deliveries

On November 17, 2025, during a working visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to France, a pivotal agreement was formalized, cementing bilateral security cooperation on a long-term footing. The visit culminated in the signing of a comprehensive Declaration of Intent at the Villacoublay airbase near Paris, where the heads of state, President Zelenskyy and President Emmanuel Macron, officially committed to providing Kyiv with substantial volumes of military assistance. This strategic document is designed to underpin Ukraine's long-term defense capabilities over a ten-year period, extending through 2035.

The centerpiece of this Franco-Ukrainian accord is Paris’s firm commitment to supply up to 100 Rafale F4 multirole fighter jets, a move that is poised to significantly bolster the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force. While a portion of these advanced aircraft may be sourced from the operational stocks of the French Armed Forces, the majority are expected to be new deliveries. Furthermore, the declaration explicitly mandates the transfer of eight SAMP/T surface-to-air missile systems to Ukraine, alongside necessary accompanying radars and air-to-air missiles. President Zelenskyy emphasized the critical nature of these assets, stating that they would guarantee security irrespective of the outcome of any future peace negotiations.

Beyond the immediate delivery of high-value military hardware, the agreement also encompasses the robust development of the defense industrial base in both nations, including provisions for joint production initiatives. Joint projects are slated to commence as early as the current year, focusing specifically on the manufacturing of interceptor drones and the development of crucial technologies intended for integration into existing Ukrainian unmanned systems. Underscoring the strategic importance of this partnership, President Macron characterized Ukraine as “Europe’s first line of defense,” highlighting that supporting Kyiv is paramount to ensuring the security of the entire continent.

This substantial package of assistance builds upon previously established support mechanisms. Earlier in 2025, specifically in February, Ukraine received its initial batch of Mirage 2000 fighters, according to an announcement made by French Minister of Defense Sébastien Lecornu. Ukrainian pilots had already completed the necessary training on these aircraft. Crucially, these Mirage 2000 jets were modified to launch long-range SCALP and Storm Shadow missiles, thereby providing the Armed Forces of Ukraine with immediate, enhanced strike and defensive capabilities.

The comprehensive modernization of Ukraine’s air power extends beyond the French partnership, notably involving parallel agreements with Sweden. On January 22, 2025, during President Zelenskyy’s visit to Stockholm, a framework letter of intent was signed with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson concerning the acquisition of between 100 and 150 JAS 39 Gripen E fighters. Prime Minister Kristersson clarified the logistical timeline, stating that the first deliveries of the newest Gripen E modification could begin within three years, with the entire procurement process spanning 10 to 15 years.

Taken together, the agreements with France and Sweden—encompassing the supply of Rafale, SAMP/T, and Gripen E systems, coupled with the expansion of joint manufacturing—establish a long-term, multi-faceted strategy. This coordinated effort is designed to create a layered and technologically advanced air defense system, ensuring Ukraine's resilience and stability amidst a protracted conflict.