Ukraine to Get 100 French Rafale Jets in Historic Deal

Published: 18 November 2025 Tuesday. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Ukraine will receive up to 100 French Rafale F4 fighter jets along with advanced air defence systems, in a major deal designed to strengthen Kyiv’s ability to defend against Russian attacks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the agreement as “historic” after signing a letter of intent with French President Emmanuel Macron at an air base near Paris.

Deliveries of the Rafale F4s are planned through 2035, while joint production of interceptor drones begins this year. Financial details remain under discussion, with France reportedly looking to involve EU financing and explore frozen Russian assets, a move that has sparked debate within the 27-member bloc.

“This is a strategic agreement which will last for 10 years starting from the next year,” Zelensky said, adding that Ukraine will also receive “very strong French radars,” eight air defence systems, and other advanced weaponry. “Using such systems means protecting lives… this is very important,” he noted.

Russia has escalated missile and drone attacks across Ukraine in recent months, targeting energy and rail infrastructure and causing widespread blackouts. Dozens of civilians have been killed, which Kyiv and its allies have described as war crimes. In the latest overnight attack, three people died and 15 were injured in Balakliya.

Macron emphasised the importance of the deal, saying: “We’re planning Rafales, 100 Rafales – that’s huge. That’s what’s needed for the regeneration of the Ukrainian military.” He added that France intends to help Ukraine prepare for future challenges.

The Rafale jets are seen as crucial to protecting Ukraine’s skies, given the country’s limited capability to prevent long-range air strikes. Defence analysts point out that the effectiveness of the jets will depend on delivery schedules, missile systems, and the training and logistics support that accompany them.
While the announcement is politically significant, it represents a long-term agreement rather than an immediate shift in the dynamics of Russia’s ongoing invasion. The EU’s financial support is also under scrutiny, with debates ongoing about unlocking €140bn in frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s military and economic needs.

Ukraine’s air force currently operates French Mirage jets and US-made F-16s and has recently provisionally agreed to acquire Swedish Gripen fighters. Zelensky will continue his tour in Europe to secure further military and energy support, following a gas deal with Greece over the weekend.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, currently controlling around 20% of Ukraine’s territory. Despite high casualties, Russian advances along the front line remain slow.