Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a declaration of intent on Monday to expand defense-sector cooperation, marking what Kyiv described as a “historic” step toward modernizing Ukraine’s air force.

The declaration, signed during Zelensky’s official visit to France, outlines plans for Ukraine to acquire advanced military equipment from the French defense industry. Zelensky said the agreement includes a Ukrainian request for 100 Rafale F4 multirole fighter jets, with the goal of integrating them into Ukraine’s combat aviation by 2035.

According to details released by the Ukrainian Presidential Office, the agreement would also enable Kyiv to purchase SAMP/T air defense systems, air-defense radars, air-to-air missiles, and aerial bombs. French newspaper Le Monde, citing the Élysée Palace, reported that the SAMP/T component of the deal involves a next-generation version of the system currently in development.

Zelensky also announced that Ukrainian and French defense companies will begin launching new joint projects this year, including the production of interceptor drones.

The Ukrainian president arrived at the Villacoublay air base near Paris earlier in the day, where Macron greeted him ahead of the signing ceremony. Zelensky inspected several French weapons systems displayed at the base, including Rafale jets and the SAMP/T system.

Macron’s office said the two leaders would also discuss cooperation in the energy, economic, and defense sectors, as well as progress on long-term security guarantees for Ukraine under the “Coalition of the Willing” framework.

France has been a key military supporter of Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022, providing Mirage 2000 jets, artillery systems, and SCALP long-range missiles.

Ukraine, seeking to build a modern air force capable of countering Russia’s attacks, has also secured commitments for F-16 fighter jets from Denmark and the Netherlands and reached an agreement on future acquisition of Sweden’s Gripen aircraft.

Zelensky’s visit to France is part of a broader European tour aimed at strengthening support ahead of the winter months, as Russia intensifies strikes on Ukraine’s energy grid. On Nov. 16, he traveled to Greece, where he secured a deal on a new gas supply route and financing for gas imports. He is expected to continue his tour in Spain on Nov. 18 for further talks on bolstering Ukraine’s air defenses. (ILKHA)