Paris, November 19, 2025 – In a landmark move to rebuild its air force, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy signed a letter of intent with French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday for the potential acquisition of up to 100 Dassault Rafale F4 fighter jets over the next decade, along with advanced air defense systems, drones, and munitions.
The agreement, inked at Villacoublay military airbase near Paris in front of a Rafale jet, was hailed by Zelenskiy as “historic,” promising “one of the greatest air defenses in the world.” It includes eight next-generation SAMP/T systems, radars, air-to-air missiles, guided bombs, and joint drone production starting this year. Deliveries could begin within three years, with full Rafale rollout by 2035.
The twin-engine Rafale, an “omnirole” aircraft capable of air superiority, deep strikes, reconnaissance, anti-ship missions, and even nuclear deterrence in French service, measures over 15 meters long with a Mach 1.8 top speed and 50,000-foot ceiling. Operational since 2004, it has seen combat in Afghanistan, Libya, Mali, Iraq, and Syria, with 533 firm orders globally, including major exports to India, Egypt, Qatar, Greece, Croatia, UAE, Indonesia, and Serbia.
Shares in Dassault Aviation surged up to 8% following the announcement. The deal follows Ukraine’s recent receipt of F-16s and Mirages, plus a similar intent for Swedish Gripens, as Kyiv seeks a modern fleet to counter Russian aggression. Financing remains unclear but may involve EU funds and frozen Russian assets.