Ukraine will purchase Rafale aircraft and SAMP/T-NG air defense systems with the help of a European loan. The agreement also includes local production of missiles and bombs.

For the first time, Ukraine will use a European loan facility to purchase French Rafale fighter jets and Franco-Italian SAMP/T-NG air defense systems. According to a statement from the Ukrainian presidency, France and Italy have authorized the licensed production in Ukraine of Aster 30 interceptor missiles and AASM guided bombs.

In the first phase, Ukraine will order 16 Rafale aircraft from a planned fleet of 100 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled after the training of Ukrainian pilots and mechanics, which could begin in France this year. Ukraine will also acquire four SAMP/T-NG systems, becoming the first country to use them in combat conditions, although it will initially receive older versions.

These acquisitions come in the context of the intensification of Russian attacks on Ukraine, highlighting the need to strengthen air defense.