“We will have one of the largest and best air defense systems in the world,” Ukraine’s president told reporters after signing a letter of intent with French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday morning at Villacoubray air base southwest of Paris, according to CNN.
President Zelenskiy told reporters at a press conference that the deal, which he called a “historic agreement”, includes eight air defense systems and six launchers.
President Macron said some of the drones, interceptor drones and guided bombs would be delivered “in a very short time” and production was promised over the next three years. The Elysée Palace said the purchases covered by the letter of intent would span the next 10 years.
President Macron said Ukraine will receive a “new generation” SAMP/T missile interception system in 2026, roughly comparable to the U.S.-made Patriot system.
In response to a question about financing the deal, President Zelenskiy said Ukraine was considering the possibility of joint production of French jets.
MNA