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​Ukraine Hopes to Get Long-range Missiles, SAM Systems from France While the Country Triple Production and Delivery Pace

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President Zelensky is signing the SCALP-EG long-range cruise missile supplied by France to Ukraine, August 2023 / Photo from open sources
President Zelensky is signing the SCALP-EG long-range cruise missile supplied by France to Ukraine, August 2023 / Photo from open sources

Ukraine now in talks with France regarding the supply of long-range missiles, air defense systems and air defense capabilities. Supplay of spare parts for the already provided military equipment is also on the table

That is according to the Ambassador of Ukraine to France, Vadym Omelchenko, who spoke in an interview with Lb.ua, Ukrinform reports.

"If we talk about the strategic issues that we are currently negotiating with the French, these are long-range missiles and air defense equipment. And another urgent need is spare parts, because everything that’ sbeen delivered to us is being heavily exploited and worn out. France and I are already working on solving this problem," the Ambassador of Ukraine to France said.

Read more: ​Ukraine Marks its Air Force Day on Sunday, Zelenskyy Visits Air Base to Communicate with Personnel, Inspect Weapons
French-Italian SAMP/T ADS together with Patriot shoot down russian missiles including Kh-47 Kinzhal, Defense Express
French-Italian SAMP/T ADS together with Patriot shoot down russian missiles including Kh-47 Kinzhal / Open source photo

The diplomat also noted that there is a "permanent pressing issue" of the supply of 155mm artillery rounds. According to Vadym Omelchenko, France undertook to deliver these munitions at a certain pace.

"Those who produce them are now working 24/7, specialized enterprises in France have gone into emergency mode. And here is good news: the French have decided to triple production and delivery pace. This is very important," Ukrainian diplomat noted.

The French SCALP-EG cruise missile, located under the wing of the Su-24 front-line bomber, Defense Express
The French SCALP-EG cruise missile, located under the wing of the Su-24 front-line bomber

Commenting on the possibility of France supplying new SAMP/T batteries, Omelchenko noted that the issue is under the constant control of the leadership of both countries, the ministers of defense, and the chiefs of the General Staff.

"I think we’re seeing good prospects. All parties understand that these systems should be delivered to Ukraine as soon as possible," Vadym Omelchenko said.

The diplomat added that all SCALP missiles, which France pledged to provide as part of the first batch, are already in Ukraine. According to Vadym Omelchenko, the munitions from the first batch proved themselves well.

Ambassador of Ukraine to France Vadym Omelchenko during a protest march against the invasion of Russian troops in Ukraine, Defense Express
Ambassador of Ukraine to France Vadym Omelchenko during a protest march against the invasion of Russian troops in Ukraine, Paris, March 5, 2022

"There will be more SCALPs, their supply will continue. The main issue with these deliveries is their rhythm, and the French are doing very well here. In general, if you hear a statement from President Zelensky or President Macron that France has made a decision at the request of the Ukrainian side to provide us with some weapons, be aware that it is already in Ukraine and already in action at the front," the Ambassador of Ukraine to France concluded.

As Defense Express reported, The French Was Gossiping that France Transfered Mirage 2000 Aircraft to Ukraine as a Carrier of the SCALP-EG Cruise Missile. We also wrote, that Ukraine Ordered 420 Thousand Hulls for 155mm Artillery Shells From France.

President Zelensky signed the SCALP-EG long-range missile supplied by France to Ukraine, August 2023, Defense Express
French SCALP-EG cruise missile under the Su-24M wing, August 2023 / Photo from open sources
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