Ukraine and France Sign Landmark Deal for 100 Rafale Fighter Jets Amid Russia Conflict

Published on: 18 Nov 2025 at 12:09 PM

Published by: Gill Bikram

Ukraine and France Sign Landmark Deal for 100 Rafale Fighter Jets Amid Russia Conflict

In a major development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron have signed a letter of intent for Ukraine to acquire up to 100 Rafale F4 fighter jets, as well as advanced air defense systems, drones, and guided munitions from France. This agreement, announced during Zelenskyy’s visit to Paris, comes as Ukraine seeks to considerably upgrade its air power amid the ongoing war with Russia.

Under this ten-year deal, Ukraine will receive not only 100 new-generation French Rafale jets but also eight SAMP/T air defense systems, modern radar, and advanced interceptors. The package is designed to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses, which have been under intense Russian missile and drone attacks for over three years.

President Zelenskyy described this as a “historic” agreement that will make Ukraine’s air defense capabilities among the strongest in Europe. President Macron called it a “new step” in Franco-Ukrainian relations and highlighted the comprehensive nature of the support, ranging from aircraft and weapons to training and joint production of next-generation technologies.

The Rafale fighter jet, manufactured by Dassault Aviation, is France’s most advanced multi-role, delta-wing aircraft, known for its agility, stealth features, and high-tech combat systems. Each aircraft, valued at approximately $100 million, is capable of carrying various advanced weapons and is already operated by several countries worldwide, including India, Egypt, and Qatar. The delivery of these fighter jets will not affect France’s current operational fleet, as all ordered jets are to be new production models.

The agreement also includes arrangements for pilot training, which will take a minimum of three years, though the transition will be quicker for pilots already familiar with Mirage jets. Funding details are still being negotiated, with the possibility of EU programs and assets frozen from Russia being used for payment.

This landmark accord signals a significant escalation in Western military support for Ukraine and is expected to alter the strategic balance on the battlefield, posing new challenges for Russian forces along the front lines.