France will allow Ukraine to manufacture French-designed missiles and precision-guided bombs under a new bilateral defence roadmap. The agreement also covers radars, next-generation SAMP-T air defence systems and 16 Rafale fighter jets, significantly expanding Paris’ long-term military partnership with Kyiv.
France grants Ukraine missile production licences
French President Emmanuel Macron announced the roadmap after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a gathering of Ukraine’s allies in Paris on Monday, July 13. Macron said the plan would implement defence commitments agreed in principle between the two countries in November.
Under the arrangement, Ukraine will receive licences to produce SCALP long-range cruise missiles, Aster air defence interceptor missiles and AASM Hammer precision-guided air-to-ground bombs. It marks the first time France has authorised the production of these weapons inside Ukraine.
Local production could help Ukraine rebuild weapons stocks more quickly and reduce its reliance on deliveries from foreign factories. However, the agreement’s impact will depend on financing, industrial capacity, component supplies and the security of Ukrainian manufacturing sites.
Rafale jets and SAMP-T systems strengthen air power
Macron confirmed that Ukraine had ordered 16 Rafale fighter jets, with the aircraft expected to become operational between 2028 and 2029. Training for Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel is expected to begin before the jets enter service.
The Rafale acquisition will support Ukraine’s longer-term effort to modernise its air force alongside existing Western aircraft. The delivery schedule means the jets are primarily intended to strengthen Ukraine’s future defence structure rather than provide an immediate battlefield solution.
Kyiv has also ordered next-generation SAMP-T air defence systems. France plans to complete deliveries of the current version before supplying the upgraded systems and additional Aster interceptor missiles.
France to transfer radars and air defence technology
The defence roadmap includes the transfer of radar systems designed to improve Ukraine’s ability to detect incoming aircraft, drones and missiles. These systems will complement the SAMP-T network and other air defence platforms already used by Ukrainian forces.
The new arrangement shifts French support beyond direct weapons deliveries toward licensed production, technical cooperation and domestic defence manufacturing. Ukraine could gain greater control over maintenance and replenishment, while French companies deepen their role in rebuilding the country’s military industry.
Allies plan exercises near Ukraine
Macron also said Ukraine’s allies would begin military exercises in neighbouring countries. The drills are intended to prepare forces that could support a proposed multinational security mission after a ceasefire with Russia takes effect.
At the Paris meeting, Ukraine and nine European countries also announced a coalition aimed at developing stronger protection against ballistic missiles. The initiative seeks to combine Ukraine’s battlefield experience with European defence technology and industrial resources.
The latest commitments show France moving from short-term military assistance toward a broader strategy involving production licences, aircraft, missile defence and future force development. Their success will depend on whether the roadmap produces weapons and operational capability quickly enough to meet Ukraine’s evolving security needs.
