The announcement came during President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s visit to Paris for talks with President Emmanuel Macron. French officials confirmed the figure but did not clarify whether deliveries will come from existing stocks or new production.

Zelenskiy framed the accord as a historic upgrade to Ukraine’s aviation and air-defense architecture. The two leaders signed a letter of intent at Villacoublay air base in front of a Rafale.

Strategic Aviation Framework

French and Ukrainian officials have discussed for weeks how to expand support for Kyiv’s air defenses amid political and budgetary uncertainty in Paris. Two people familiar with the talks said the Rafale package forms part of a 10-year strategic aviation plan, contributing to Ukraine’s goal of building a 250-aircraft fleet alongside incoming U.S. F-16s and Sweden’s Gripen fighters.

Some jets may come directly from French stocks, while most would be delivered over several years. The sources said financing remains unresolved.

Air-Defense Commitments Expand

Macron pledged last month to provide additional Mirage jets beyond the initial six already promised. France also committed a new batch of Aster 30 missiles for Ukraine’s SAMP/T air-defense systems, produced by European manufacturer MBDA. Officials said further SAMP/T units, missile packages, and anti-drone systems may be included in the broader deal.

Operating Rafales will require extensive pilot training, a process French officials acknowledged could take significant time.

Defense Industry Coordination

Zelenskiy will meet French defense manufacturers, including Dassault, before signing additional contracts later in the day. A separate forum will pair French and Ukrainian drone-sector firms to explore joint production opportunities.

France and Britain continue to promote a coalition of about 30 states willing to deploy troops or assets in Ukraine or along its western borders once a peace agreement is reached, aiming to anchor long-term military and economic support.