Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised France’s of the SAMP/T as “one of the greatest” air defense systems in the world during a visit to Paris, where he confirmed Kyiv will receive eight of the advanced interceptor batteries. This acquisition is a key, and perhaps most immediate, component of a massive new 10-year defense pact between the two nations, which also includes a preliminary deal for 100 Rafale fighter jets, radars, and drones.
The focus on the high-end SAMP/T system highlights Kyiv’s desperate and immediate need to stop Russia’s missile and glide bomb attacks. The “historical” letter of intent was signed by Zelensky as Russia continues to escalate its air war, killing civilians and causing rolling blackouts with relentless strikes. Zelensky has repeatedly said that acquiring more ground-based systems, like the SAMP/T and the US-made Patriot, is his government’s number one priority.
While the 100 Dassault-made Rafale jets are the centerpiece of the agreement, the inclusion of the eight SAMP/T systems provides a more near-term answer to Russia’s current tactics. These systems can intercept a wide array of aerial threats, including ballistic and cruise missiles, offering a vital shield for Ukrainian cities.
The 10-year pact also includes plans for joint Franco-Ukrainian production of interceptor drones, further bolstering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. The Rafale jets themselves are a longer-term project, with a delivery timeline contingent on how quickly Ukrainian pilots can be trained and the necessary support infrastructure can be built.
This major deal is being financed by European partners, a crucial development after the Trump administration halted US support. The French presidency confirmed funding will draw from the EU’s €150 billion SAFE loan fund, and Zelensky stated Kyiv would also use a G7-backed mechanism to deploy future revenues generated by immobilized Russian assets.