Ukraine locked deal with France to get 100 Rafale Jets
18th Nov. 2025
A new deal was unlocked on 17th November, 2025, between Ukraine and France. On Monday, Ukraine signed a deal with France to obtain 100 French-made Rafale Warplanes. It happened due to the U.S. showing less interest in providing support to the country in its ongoing war with Russia. In response, France decided to show their European support to Ukraine. With 100 Rafale F4 Warplanes, and Kyiv is to get other advanced weaponries that help it to protect itself against Russia’s deadly attacks.
France plans to deliver 100 Rafale F4 Warplanes by 2035, in addition the joint production of interceptor drones will also start before 2025 ends. After signing the letter of intent, President Zelensky called the deal “Historic” with French President Emmanuel Macron at an air base near Paris. Some reports say officials have not yet finalized the financial details, but Paris may plan try to access frozen Russian assets, which can turns controversial, a move that may splits the 27-member bloc.
In the joint briefing on Monday, Macron stated, “This is a strategic agreement which will last for a decade commencing from 2026”. “Kyiv will also get powerful French radars, eight air defense systems, and other advanced weapons”, he added. On that, Zelensky emphasised that using such advanced systems means protecting someone’s life… this is very crucial”.
Why this deal between Ukraine and France signed?
In recent months, Russia has increased its attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure with drones and missiles that have caused blackouts across the country. In briefing, Macron also highlighted that, “They planned 100 Rafales, which is huge, but it also needed for the regeneration of Ukraine’s military”. He added, “We also wanted to help Ukraine prepare for whatever is coming next”. These Rafales are important for Ukraine as the country has almost become powerless to prevent long-range strikes on its cities and border towns.
The Ukrainian air force is already utilizing both US-made F-16s and French-made Mirage jets. Kyiv has also recently agreed in principle to buy Sweden’s Gripen fighters. Moreover, Zelensky will go to Spain after France to ask for further military and other help for Ukraine. He made a deal with Greece for gas over the weekend. A pipeline across the Balkans is expected to bring important quantities of US liquefied natural gas to Ukraine this winter.
Web Resources on Ukraine-France Rafale Deal
1. Reuters.com: Ukraine signs deal to obtain 100 French-made Rafale warplanes
2. BBC.com: Ukraine to get up to 100 French-made Rafale fighter jets
3. CNN.com: Ukraine to buy ‘up to 100’ French fighter jets, Elysee Palace announces
4. NYTimes.com: France Agrees to Sell Up to 100 Fighter Jets to Ukraine