Ukraine and France have reached agreements to expand defense cooperation. They provide for the licensed production of missiles and aerial bombs, the delivery of air defense systems and the purchase of Rafale fighter jets.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the agreements following talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. The arrangements were also set out in a joint declaration by the two leaders.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine will receive licenses to produce SCALP cruise missiles and AASM guided aerial bombs. Together with Italy, France will also authorize the production of Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles in Ukraine.
France will also cooperate with Ukraine and other partners as part of the FREYJA anti-ballistic missile program.
Ukraine will become the first country to receive the new enhanced Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG systems. Before the new systems are deployed, France will provide Ukraine with two SAMP/T batteries to strengthen its air defenses.
France and Italy will also accelerate deliveries of Aster 30 missiles by October this year.
The agreements separately provide for the purchase of the first 16 French Rafale fighter jets and weapons for them. Training for Ukrainian pilots and mechanics in France is expected to begin this year.
After the training cycle is completed, the first four Rafale fighter jets will be transferred to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
“We are systematically developing Ukraine’s combat capabilities. Thank you, Emmanuel! Thank you, France!” Zelenskyy said.
