France to provide Ukraine with two air defense systems and anti-ballistic missiles, Zelenskyy says
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (facebook.com_zelenskyy.official)
Ukraine will become the first country to receive France's new upgraded Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG anti-ballistic air defense systems by the end of this year, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
"France will also provide two SAMP/T batteries to strengthen our defenses already this year. France and Italy will also accelerate deliveries of Aster 30 missiles by October this year," the President said.
Zelenskyy also highlighted that Ukraine would receive licenses to produce what he described as "very powerful weapons." These include SCALP cruise missiles, AASM guided bombs, and, jointly with Italy, Aster 30 missiles.
"France will also work with us and with other partners on the FREYJA anti-ballistic program – our unique future strength," Zelenskyy added.
Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that Paris would provide Kyiv with Rafale fighter jets and allow Ukraine to manufacture advanced missiles and guided aerial bombs. The first French fighter jets are expected to begin operations in Ukrainian airspace in 2028-2029.
In addition, on July 13, participants at the Coalition of the Willing meeting in Paris announced the creation of an anti-ballistic missile coalition, which Ukraine has joined.
The new initiative brings together 10 European countries, which will coordinate efforts to develop missile defense systems and create new capabilities for intercepting ballistic missiles.
