China News Agency, Paris, December 3 (Reporter Li Yang) France and the United Arab Emirates reached an arms supply contract totaling 17 billion euros on the 3rd local time.

According to the contract, France will sell 80 Rafale fighters and 12 military helicopters to the UAE.

　　French President Macron, who is visiting the UAE, attended the signing ceremony of the contract with UAE Crown Prince Mohammed of Abu Dhabi on the same day.

Macron stated that the conclusion of the contract shows that the UAE believes that France is a reliable partner.

　　The French official statement stated that the contract consolidates the stronger strategic partnership between France and the UAE than ever before and contributes to regional stability.

French Defense Minister Parley, who accompanied Macron on the visit, described the contract as "historical."

　　The Rafale fighter was manufactured by the French company Dassault.

The UAE purchased an upgraded version of the Rafale fighter F4 this time, which is still under development and is expected to be delivered in 2027.

This batch of "Rafale" fighters is expected to replace the existing French "Phantom" fighters in the UAE.

　　Dassault’s chairman and CEO Trapier stated in a statement on the 3rd that the contract is the largest contract ever obtained by the French fighter aircraft manufacturing industry, guaranteeing thousands of jobs in the next 10 years, and once again clearly stated The internationally recognized level of French fighter aircraft manufacturing.

Dassault’s shares rose 9% at the opening day.

　　In addition, the UAE will purchase 12 "Caracal Cat" armed helicopters from France.

This helicopter is manufactured by the French Airbus company and is mainly used for rescue operations in combat and long-distance transport of soldiers.

The French Army's "Scara Cat" armed helicopters are mainly equipped with special forces.

　　Some analysts believe that after Australia canceled the submarine supply contract with France, the contract reached between France and the UAE will help boost the French defense industry.

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