Ukraine has advanced its long-term strategy to build a modern air force, signing a letter of intent with France for up to 100 advanced Rafale fighter jets, though their delivery remains years away.
This agreement, announced Monday, sees Ukraine potentially becoming the largest export customer for the Dassault Aviation aircraft. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed it as “historic” during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at Villacoublay airbase.
Beyond the Rafales, the potential deal also includes new-generation SAMP-T anti-aircraft defense systems and drones, critical for bolstering Ukraine’s air defenses against ongoing Russian assaults.
The acquisition, if finalized, is estimated to cost between $10.8 billion and $16.2 billion. This significant commitment underscores France’s pledge to support Ukraine’s defense industry, according to the French presidency.
However, the current agreement is only a letter of intent, not a firm order. This raises immediate questions about financing for a nation heavily reliant on international aid during wartime.
The Rafale, a twin-engine fighter, can exceed speeds of 1,180 miles per hour and boasts high maneuverability. The SAMP-T system, which entered service with French and Italian armies in the early 2010s, offers medium-range air defense capabilities and was recently chosen by Denmark.
Despite the ambitious plans, immediate delivery of the Rafales is not anticipated. Admiral Jean-Louis Vichot, a former head of France’s military mission to NATO, noted the extensive training required for pilots and mechanics. He also cited France’s own limited aircraft availability as a factor.
Dassault Aviation plans to increase its production rate to three aircraft per month by 2026. The company aims to reach four aircraft per month by 2028-2029 to meet growing demand.
The French commitment marks a shift in Paris’s policy. France initially hesitated to transfer combat aircraft due to concerns about escalating the conflict. Previously, France announced the delivery of six Mirage 2000-5F jets, with the first expected to arrive in early 2025.
This French deal forms part of a broader Ukrainian strategy to acquire 250 new aircraft. In late October, Ukraine also signed a letter of intent for 100 to 150 Gripen fighters from Sweden.
President Zelensky’s efforts aim to build a robust aerial fleet from various international partners. The agreements come as Ukraine continues to defend against new, massive Russian attacks, with recent strikes claiming at least three lives in the Kharkiv region.
Following their meeting at Villacoublay, Presidents Macron and Zelensky visited the command of a 35-nation multinational force at Mont Valérien, which is prepared for potential intervention.