Overview
- Officials announced in Kyiv that a letter of intent was signed during French defense minister Catherine Vautrin’s visit, formalizing a move to co-development and co-production.
- The French defense ministry said cooperation will prioritize drones and data capabilities, with the Brave1 France–Ukraine initiative set to start operating in March 2026.
- Ukraine said the plan includes speeding up aircraft deliveries and continuing record-volume production of AASM Hammer air-launched bombs.
- Kyiv is seeking further air-defense assets under the partnership, including SAMP-T systems and Mistral and Crotale surface-to-air missiles.
- The push builds on France’s 2025 €2 billion support package and a November 2025 declaration of intent on Ukraine’s future purchase of 100 Rafale fighters.