Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a “declaration of intent” at an airbase near Paris, paving the way for Ukraine to purchase up to 100 French Rafale fighter jets and air defense systems—marking a first-of-its-kind move for Kyiv.

Speaking to reporters at the Élysée Palace, Macron said the agreement falls within “a different timeframe” than previous Western arms transfers aimed at helping Ukraine repel the Russian invasion that began in February 2022. He emphasized that the deal is about “renewing the Ukrainian army for the future,” so it can “deter any new incursion” once peace or a ceasefire is achieved.

Standing beside Macron, Zelensky declared, “This is a historic agreement, and we deeply appreciate France’s support.”

Macron welcomed Zelensky at the Villacoublay airbase southwest of Paris, where French defense manufacturers showcased the Rafale fighter jet with its weapons systems, the next-generation SAMP/T air defense system, and various drone platforms. The two presidents signed a declaration of intent for cooperation on Ukraine’s acquisition of new French defense equipment.

On Sunday, Zelensky described the agreement on X as “historic,” highlighting its promise of a “significant boost” to Kyiv’s capabilities in “combat aviation, air defense, and other defense equipment.”

Both leaders stated that the agreement spans “a horizon of about ten years,” opening the door to future contracts for Ukraine to acquire French defense gear, including approximately 100 Rafale jets with their weapons systems and eight next-generation SAMP/T air defense units currently under development.

The French presidency confirmed that Ukraine will also receive four radar systems and drones for surveillance, attack, and interception.

According to the French presidency, the goal of the agreement is to “put French excellence in defense industries at the service of Ukraine’s defense” and to protect its airspace against “Russian aggression.”