All articles tagged with #rafale
Video shows a French Rafale destroying a drone that entered Latvian airspace during NATO's Baltic Air Policing from Šiauliai, Lithuania; the intercept is the first such intercept captured on camera and highlights how Russia's drone activities in Ukraine are crossing into NATO territory, with NATO expanding layered defenses and France moving to field lower-cost counter-drone pods for the Rafale.
Macron announced France will increase its nuclear arsenal for the first time since 1992 and broaden European deterrence through closer cooperation with eight allies (UK, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Sweden, Denmark), including potential deployment of nuclear-capable Rafale jets and a shared European framework, while preserving France’s sovereign decision on use.
Indonesia has abandoned its plan to purchase Boeing's F-15EX Eagle II, effectively ending a campaign that included a 2023 MoU for up to 24 jets; the reasons remain unclear as Jakarta moves forward with other modern fighters, notably 42 Dassault Rafales and the KF-21 program, while the U.S. F-15EX program continues separately.
In a significant aerial conflict on May 7, 2025, Pakistan's Chinese-made J-10C fighters shot down an Indian Rafale using long-range PL-15 missiles, aided by advanced electronic warfare and a sophisticated 'kill chain' network, highlighting the importance of situational awareness and intelligence in modern warfare.
French intelligence accuses China of using embassies and disinformation campaigns to undermine the reputation and sales of France's Rafale fighter jets, especially after their combat performance in India and Pakistan, aiming to weaken France's influence and military exports in Asia.
A BJP leader admitted that Pakistan shot down five Indian Air Force jets during recent hostilities, criticizing the performance of French-made Rafale jets and alleging corruption in the Rafale deal, while highlighting the lack of accountability under Prime Minister Modi. The conflict was triggered by a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to a military escalation that ended with a ceasefire brokered by the US.
France has purchased 42 Rafale fighter jets from Dassault Aviation for over $5.5 billion, with the new aircraft to be fitted to the F4 production standard and featuring modernized operational capabilities. The purchase comes amid concerns about the Future Combat Air System, a successor to the Rafale, which isn't expected to enter service before 2045 or 2050. The deal, the first major expenditure under France’s 2024-2030 military budget law, will support over 7,000 jobs across more than 400 companies.
Renault has unveiled its new D-segment coupe-SUV, the Rafale, which features a hybrid powertrain and a panoramic glass roof. The vehicle is wider than the Espace and has a 2.74-meter wheelbase, but loses the third row of seats. It has a cargo capacity of 530 liters and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The hybrid setup combines a turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a pair of electric motors, producing a total output of 200 hp. A plug-in hybrid version with 300 hp and all-wheel drive is planned for later.
The Rafale, a 20-year-old French jet fighter, is experiencing a surge in popularity due to rising military spending in Europe and Asia, as well as sanctions against Russian competitors. Its newfound popularity has also boosted France's status in the international arms trade.