Rafale Jets Could Soon Be Built in Ukraine With French Tech, Under New Agreement

Ukraine and France have agreed to explore the localization of Rafale F4 fighter jet manufacturing on Ukrainian territory, following a meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Emmanuel Macron at the Velizy–Villacoublay Air Base on November 17.

According to Ukrinform, the two presidents signed a declaration of intent focused on expanding long-term defense cooperation.

The document includes a provision for Ukraine to procure up to 100 multirole Rafale F4 aircraft by 2035 for the Air Force, with an additional clause outlining potential technology transfer and the creation of a joint production line in Ukraine.

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Ukraine to Buy 100 Rafale Jets in Historic Deal With France—A New Era for Kyiv’s Air Force

Nov 17, 2025 12:57

The declaration signals a shift toward deeper industrial cooperation. Ukrainian officials noted that local production would allow the country to service and modernize its future Rafale fleet domestically.

The arrangement is also expected to support workforce development, attract investment into the defense sector, and increase the technological capacity of Ukraine’s aerospace industry.

Rafale F4 is the latest evolution of Dassault Aviation’s multirole platform, incorporating updated radar systems, advanced data-link capabilities, and broader weapons integration. The aircraft can carry MICA and Meteor air-to-air missiles, SCALP-EG cruise missiles, AASM Hammer guided bombs, and AM39 Exocet anti-ship missiles, in addition to its 30 mm GIAT 30/719B cannon.

Earlier, Ukraine received a formal commitment from Sweden for 150 new Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters in a deal worth $12–$15 billion.

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