Dassault Rafale#Variants

In the mid-1970s, the French Air Force (Armée de l'Air) and French Navy (Marine Nationale) had separate requirements for a new generation of fighters to replace those in or about to enter service.Williams 2002, p. 92. Because their requirements were similar, and to reduce cost, both services issued a common request for proposal.{{cite web |url= http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/omnirole-by-design.html |title= Omnirole by design |publisher=Dassault Aviation |access-date=18 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130502082456/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/omnirole-by-design.html |archive-date= 2 May 2013}} In 1975, the country's Ministry of Aviation initiated studies for a new aircraft to complement the upcoming and smaller Dassault Mirage 2000, with each aircraft optimized for differing roles.Fiszer 2005, pp. 40–41.

The Rafale aircraft development programme was the end product of efforts by various European countries for a common fighter aircraft. In 1979, Dassault-Breguet (later Dassault Aviation) joined the MBB/BAe "European Collaborative Fighter" project which was renamed the "European Combat Aircraft" (ECA).Buttler 2000, p. 134. The company contributed the aerodynamic layout of a prospective twin-engine, single-seat fighter; however, the project collapsed in 1981 due to differing operational requirements of each partner country.Fiszer 2005, p. 41. In 1983, the "Future European Fighter Aircraft" (FEFA) programme was initiated, bringing together France, Italy, Spain, West Germany and the United Kingdom to jointly develop a new fighter, although the latter three had their own aircraft developments.Eden et al. 2004, p. 168. French officials envisioned a lightweight, multirole aircraft that—in addition to fulfilling both air force and naval roles—it was believed, would be attractive on the export fighter market. This was in contrast to the British requirement for a heavy long-range interceptor. France also demanded a lead role, with the commensurate technical and industrial primacy, whereas the other countries were accepting of a more egalitarian programme structure.Lorell and Hoffman 1989, p. 12.{{#tag:ref|Quote: "Dassault demands design leadership as the price for European co-operation."Flight International December 1983, p. 1,509.|group=N}}

There was little common ground between France and the other members of this project, but by 1983, the five countries had agreed on a European Staff Target for a future fighter. Nevertheless, differences persisted, and so France withdrew from the multilateral talks in July 1985 to preserve the technological independence of its fighter aircraft industry. West Germany, the UK and Italy opted out and established a new European Fighter Aircraft (EFA) programme. In Turin, on 2 August 1985, West Germany, the UK and Italy agreed to go ahead with the EFA, and confirmed that France, along with Spain, had chosen not to proceed as a member of the project.{{cite news |last= Lewis |first= Paul |title=3 European Countries plan Jet Fighter Project |newspaper=The New York Times |date=3 August 1985 |page= 31 |url= https://www.nytimes.com/1985/08/03/business/3-european-countries-plan-jet-fighter-project.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120411102841/http://www.nytimes.com/1985/08/03/business/3-european-countries-plan-jet-fighter-project.html |archive-date=11 April 2012}}{{cite news |last=Donne |first=Michael |title=Why three into one will go; Europe's new combat aircraft |newspaper= Financial Times|location=London |date= 3 August 1985}} Despite pressure from France, Spain rejoined the EFA project in early September 1985. The four-nation project eventually resulted in the Eurofighter Typhoon's development."Eurofighter: Spain joins the club." The Economist, 17 September 1985, p. 68.

File: Rafale logo.svg

In France, the government proceeded with its own programme. The Ministry of Defence required an aircraft capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground, all-day and adverse weather operations. As France was the sole developer of the Rafale's airframe, avionics, propulsion system and armament, the resultant aircraft was to replace a multitude of aircraft in the French Armed Forces. The Rafale would perform roles previously filled by an assortment of specialised platforms, including the Jaguar, Mirage F1C/CR/CT, Mirage 2000C/-5/N in the French Air Force, and the F-8P Crusader, Étendard IVP/M and Super Étendard in French Naval Aviation.Sweetman 2002, p. 44.

At the same time as the multinational talks were occurring, Dassault-Breguet had been busy designing its Avion de Combat Experimental (ACX). During late 1978, prior to France's joining of the ECA, Dassault received contracts for the development of project ACT 92 (Avion de Combat Tactique, meaning "Tactical Combat Airplane"). The following year, the National Office for Aviation Studies and Research began studying the possible configurations of the new fighter under the codename Rapace ("Bird of Prey"). By March 1980, the number of configurations had been narrowed down to four, two of which had a combination of canards, delta wings and a single vertical tail-fin. The ACX project was given political impetus when the French government awarded a contract for two (later reduced to one) technology demonstrator aircraft on 13 April 1983. The government and industry would each provide half of the development cost, with first flight to take place in 1986.Lorell and Hoffman 1989, p. 14 At the time, there was no guarantee that the effort would result in a full-scale development programme, and the aircraft remained a purely "proof-of concept" test vehicle. In an effort to harmonize design specifics with the requirements of other countries while collaboration talks were being held, Dassault sized the ACX aircraft in the 9.5 tonne range. After France decided to pull out of the multilateral talks, designers focused on a more compact size, as specified by the Air Force.Lenorovitz 1986, p. 79. The ACX programmed was renamed Rafale ("squall") in April 1985.Eden 2004, p. 169.

File:Dassault Rafale A at Farnborough 1986 (52084382048).jpg

Construction of the Rafale A (ACX) technology demonstrator started in 1984. It had a length of {{Convert|15.8|m|ft|abbr=on}}, a wingspan of {{Convert|11|m|ft|abbr=on}}, and a {{Convert|9.5|t|lb|abbr=on|adj=on}} empty weight. The austere aircraft lacked in major subsystems, and had the minimal cockpit systems and a fly-by-wire flight control system for the validation of the design's basic airframe-engine layout. The company desired to use the Rafale A to continue the company approach of risk reduction through incremental improvement and to test the aerodynamically unstable delta wing-canard configuration.Lorell and Hoffman 1989, p. 18. The aircraft was Dassault's 92nd prototype in 40 years.Lorell and Hoffman 1989, p. 50. At the time of its construction, the aircraft had two {{Convert|68.8|kN|lbf|abbr=on|adj=on}} General Electric F404 engines that were then in service with the F/A-18 Hornet, pending the availability of the Snecma M88 turbofan engines.Fiszer 2005, p. 42.Spick 2000, p. 433. It was rolled out in December 1985 at Saint-Cloud, and on 4 July 1986, made its first flight from the company's Istres test facility in southern France, piloted by Guy Mitaux-Maurouard. During the one-hour flight, the aircraft reached an altitude of {{Convert|36000|ft|m|abbr=on|order=flip}} and a speed of Mach 1.3.Sedbon July 1986, p. 4. The aircraft participated in the Farnborough air show the following month.

The aircraft participated in an intensive flight test programme that saw it simulate air force and naval operations. The test vehicle flew approaches to the carrier {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Clemenceau|R98|2}}, and also tested for coordination with {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Foch|R99|2}}. By 1987, the aircraft had been flown by Air Force, Navy and CEV test pilots. Its port-side F404 engine was replaced with the {{Convert|72.9|kN|lbf|adj=on|abbr=on}} M88 in early 1990, and the aircraft flew under the updated powerplant configuration in May 1990.Flight International 1991, p. 34. The aircraft thereafter attained a speed of Mach 1.4 without the use of engine reheat, thereby demonstrating supercruise.Norris and Sedbon 1991, p. 35. The Rafale A was used until January 1994, and was retired after 867 sorties.{{Cite web|url=https://www.museeairespace.fr/aller-plus-haut/collections/dassault-prototype-rafale-a-f-zwre/|title=Dassault Prototype Rafale A|publisher=Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace|language=French|accessdate=26 April 2023}}

The early successful demonstration programme increased French industry and government confidence in the viability of a full-scale development programme for the Rafale. In June 1987, French prime minister Jacques Chirac declared that the government would proceed with the project. A contract for four pre-production aircraft (one Rafale C, two Rafale Ms and one Rafale B) was awarded on 21 April 1988 for a test and validation programme.{{cite news|author=Cody, Edward|title=France Decides to Build Own Advanced Warplane; Aircraft May Compete With Eurofighter |newspaper=The Washington Post|date=21 July 1987}} There was nevertheless government uncertainty in the programme, as it was expected to cost some Ffr120 billion (1988 francs) in total development and procurement costs.{{Cite news|last=Davidson|first=Ian|title=Uncertainty Deepens Over Rafale Project|newspaper=Financial Times|location=London|date=23 September 1988}}Aviation Week & Space Technology 1986, p. 79. Prime minister Michel Rocard was concerned about the state of the project and the failure of the previous government to secure cooperation with other countries, but stated that, "It is inconceivable that we should not be able to build the weapons necessary for our independence".{{Cite news|last=Davidson|first=Ian|title=Rocard Concedes Rafale Project May Be in Doubt|newspaper=Financial Times|location=London|date=17 September 1988}} France had earlier entered unsuccessful talks with Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, about the possible collaboration on the project.Sedbon January 1986, p. 11.

File:Dassault Rafale C, France - Air Force AN0947661.jpg

To meet the various roles expected of the new aircraft, the Air Force required two variants: the single-seat Rafale C (chasseur, meaning "fighter") and the Rafale B (biplace, "two-seater"). Its first flight on 19 May 1991 occurred at the company's test facility in Istres. This signalled the start of a test programme which primarily aimed to test the M88-2 engines, man-machine interface and weapons, and expand the flight envelope.Eden et al. 2004, p. 169. Due to budgetary constraints, the second single-seat prototype was never built.Williams 2002, pp. 92–93. The aircraft differed significantly from the Rafale A demonstrator. Although superficially similar to the heavier test vehicle, the aircraft was smaller, with a length of {{Convert|15.3|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a wingspan of {{Convert|10.9|m|ft|abbr=on}}.Lenorovitz 1990, p.21. It was less detectable by radar due to the canopy being gold-plated and the addition of radar-absorbent materials; Dassault had also removed the dedicated airbrake.Williams 2002, p. 93. The sole Rafale B two-seat preproduction aircraft, B01, made its first flight on 30 April 1993, and served as a platform for testing of weapons and fire-control systems, including the RBE2 radar and the SPECTRA electronic warfare suite.

The first of two Rafale M (maritime, "naval") prototypes, M01, made its maiden flight on 12 December 1991, followed by the second on 8 November 1993. These aircraft differed from the air force variants in having reinforced structure to allow the aircraft to operate aboard ships, and provision for a tail hook and an in-built ladder, which increased the weight of the Rafale M by {{Convert|500|kg|lb|abbr=on}} over other production variants.Williams 2002, pp. 94–95. Since France has no land-based catapult test facility, catapult trials were carried out in mid-1992 and early 1993 at the United States Navy facility at NAS Lakehurst, New Jersey. The aircraft then carried out shipboard trials aboard Foch in April 1993. The aircraft conducted landings and launches from the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle in July 1999. Testing showed that the aircraft had the ability to land with significant loads of unexpended ordnance.

The Rafale B was initially expected to be just a trainer, but the Gulf War showed that a second crew member was invaluable on strike and reconnaissance missions. The Air Force therefore switched its preferences towards the two-seater, and planned that the variant would constitute 60 percent of the Rafale fleet.Eden et al. 2004, p. 170. The service originally planned to order 250 Rafales, later reduced to 234 aircraft, 95 "C" and 139 "B" models",Williams 2002, p. 108. and then to 212 aircraft. The Navy originally planned to order 86 Rafales, which was reduced to 60 by to budget cuts, 25 M single-seaters and 35 two-seat Ns. The two-seater was later cancelled.

The ACX and subsequent production Rafale was designed in a "virtual" format. Dassault used the experience and technical expertise of its sister company Dassault Systèmes, which had invented the CATIA (Computer Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Application) system, a three-dimensional computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) software suite that became standard across the industry.Cook 1997, p. 22. CATIA enabled digitization and efficiency improvements throughout the programme, as it implemented recently developed processes such as digital mockup and product data management (PDM). Engineers worked directly with computers in generating 3D models of the aircraft, and took advantage of the design software in facilitating machine-tool preparation. The system consisted of 15GB databases of each of the Rafale's components, assisting with various aspects of the design, manufacture and through-life support. The computer-aided arrangement also simplified routine maintenance.

Production of the first aircraft series formally started in December 1992, but was suspended in November 1995 due to political and economic uncertainty, and resumed in January 1997 after the Ministry of Defence and Dassault agreed on a 48-aircraft (28 firm and 20 options) production run with delivery between 2002 and 2007. A further order of 59 Rafale F3s was announced in December 2004.{{cite news|author=Roosevelt, Ann|title=France orders more Dassault Rafale combat aircraft |work=Defense Daily |date=9 December 2004}} In November 2009 the French government ordered an additional 60 aircraft to take the total order for the French Air Force and Navy to 180.{{cite news|author=Hoyle, Craig |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-approves-contract-for-60-more-rafales-334811/|title=France approves contract for 60 more Rafales|work=Flightglobal |date=13 November 2009|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130411202305/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-approves-contract-for-60-more-rafales-334811/ |archive-date=11 April 2013}}

File:A Rafale Marine of the French navy lands during flight operations aboard USS George H.W. Bush. (41385978054).jpg

The Rafale is manufactured almost entirely in France, except for some imported non-sensitive components.{{cite journal|author=Meddah, Hassan |url=http://www.usinenouvelle.com/article/le-rafale-chasseur-made-in-france-aux-7-000-emplois.N164502|title=Le Rafale, chasseur "Made in France" aux 7 000 emplois|language=fr|date=31 January 2012|journal=L'Usine nouvelle|access-date=30 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120204155311/http://www.usinenouvelle.com/article/le-rafale-chasseur-made-in-france-aux-7-000-emplois.N164502 |archive-date=4 February 2012}} Different components are produced in various plants across the country, including the fuselage in Paris, wings in Martignas, and fins in Biarritz, with final assembly taking place in Merignac near Bordeaux.Svitak and Bruneau 2015, p. 60. Dassault carries out 60% of the work, its partner Thales 25%, and its other partner Safran 15%.{{Cite news|last=Tran|first=Pierre|title=Dassault Wins; Can It Seal the Deal?|work=Defense News|date=6 February 2012}} The three companies rely on a network of 500 subcontractors, many of which are small and medium enterprises, providing work for 7,000 direct and indirect employees. {{As of|2012}}, each fighter took 24 months to manufacture, with an annual production rate of eleven aircraft.

The Rafale was originally planned to enter service in 1995. The aircraft's development proceeded on time, on budget, and without major difficulties. However, the project needed to compete with other defense acquisition programmes for a dwindling national defense budget. This occurred in a political environment in which the chief security threat, the Soviet Union, no longer existed. The French government consequently reduced Rafale orders, which Dassault and other companies involved claimed impeded production management and led to higher costs, and delayed the entry of the aircraft into service.Flight International 1994, p. 27.Sparaco 1996, p. 29. At one stage, French naval authorities investigated the possibility of acquiring used F/A-18s to replace the obsolete F-8 for its carriers,{{cite news |title= France to test F/A-18 on carrier this fall|work=Defense Daily|date=7 July 1989}} but the French government intended an all-Rafale fleet, and did not go ahead with the plan. Deliveries of the Rafale M were subsequently given a high priority to replace the Navy's aged F-8 fighters. In the words of a naval official, "Although we lost the battle for the F/A-18s, I guess you could say that we had at least some success by 'persuading' the government to give us initial delivery priority". The first production Rafale B took its first flight on 24 November 1998, followed by the first Rafale M for the French Navy on 7 July 1999.{{cite news|title=French naval plane makes maiden flight|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=7 July 1999}}

In March 2025, Dassault Aviation announced an increase in production in anticipation of more orders from France and other countries. The company's chief executive, Eric Trappier, said they plan to deliver three aircraft per month in 2025, increasing to four per month from 2028 to 2029.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-23 |title=France's Dassault says upping Rafale warplane output |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250323-france-s-dassault-says-upping-rafale-warplane-output |access-date=2025-03-23 |website=France 24 |language=en}}

On 5 June 2025, Dassault Aviation announced its partnership with India's Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) for the production of Rafale's fuselage in India after signing four Production Transfer Agreements. The manufacturing will be taken up in TASL's Hyderabad facility. The first fuselage will roll out from fiscal year of 2028 with a production rate of two units per month. This will be the first time the Rafale's fuselage is manufactured outside of France.{{Cite web |date=2025-06-05 |title=Dassault Aviation partners with Tata Advanced Systems to manufacture Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage for India and other global markets - Press kits |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/dassault-aviation-partners-with-tata-advanced-systems-to-manufacture-rafale-fighter-aircraft-fuselage-for-india-and-other-global-markets/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250605172639/https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/dassault-aviation-partners-with-tata-advanced-systems-to-manufacture-rafale-fighter-aircraft-fuselage-for-india-and-other-global-markets/ |archive-date=2025-06-05 |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=Dassault Aviation, a major player to aeronautics |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |last=Pandey |first=Devesh K. |date=2025-06-05 |title=Dassault Aviation partners with Tata Advanced Systems for Rafale fighter fuselage production in India |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/dassault-aviation-partners-with-tata-advanced-systems-for-rafale-fighter-fuselage-production-in-india/article69660246.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250605183211/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/dassault-aviation-partners-with-tata-advanced-systems-for-rafale-fighter-fuselage-production-in-india/article69660246.ece |archive-date=2025-06-05 |access-date=2025-06-05 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web |date=2025-06-05 |title=Made-in-India Rafale fuselages from 2027-28: Tata Advanced Systems, Dassault ink pacts for manufacturing facility in Hyderabad |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/business/aviation/tata-rafale-dassault-deal-make-in-india-10049878/ |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}} Since earlier, five different parts of Rafale is being manufactured by Dassault Reliance Aerospace Limited (DRAL) in Nagpur, India.{{Cite web |date=2022-12-15 |title=Five components being made in Dassault Reliance's Nagpur plant to be integrated with all Rafale jets - BusinessToday |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/trends/story/five-components-being-made-in-dassault-reliances-nagpur-plant-to-be-integrated-with-all-rafale-jets-356515-2022-12-15 |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=Business Today |language=en}}

The Rafale has been designed with an open software architecture that facilitates straightforward upgrades. Dassault and its industry partners have therefore undertaken continuous tests and development primarily aimed at progressively improving the aircraft's sensors and avionics, and to allow additional armament integration. In 2011, upgrades under consideration included a software radio and satellite link, a new laser-targeting pod, smaller bombs and enhancements to the aircraft's data-fusion capacity.{{cite web |last =Tran |first= Pierre |url =http://www.defensenews.com/article/20110613/DEFFEAT06/106130316/Libya-Extends-Rafale-s-Combat-Experience |archive-url =https://archive.today/20120731080855/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20110613/DEFFEAT06/106130316/Libya-Extends-Rafale-s-Combat-Experience |url-status=dead |archive-date =31 July 2012|title=Libya Extends Rafale's Combat Experience|work= Defense News|date=13 June 2011|access-date=15 January 2013}} In July 2012, fleetwide upgrades of the Rafale's battlefield communications and interoperability capabilities commenced.{{cite news |url= http://www.defpro.com/news/details/37588/?SID=804fe9887bcea2c313845666269e83fb |title=Extensive French Rafale Upgrade Programme Begins|newspaper=Def pro |date=18 July 2012|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121231005640/http://www.defpro.com/news/details/37588 |archive-date=31 December 2012}}{{cite web |last= Ruello |first= Alain |language= fr |url= http://www.lesechos.fr/entreprises-secteurs/air-defense/actu/0202799266091-jean-pierre-devaux-le-rafale-restera-au-meilleur-niveau-technologique-jusqu-en-2050-576241.php |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130621012816/http://www.lesechos.fr/entreprises-secteurs/air-defense/actu/0202799266091-jean-pierre-devaux-le-rafale-restera-au-meilleur-niveau-technologique-jusqu-en-2050-576241.php |url-status=dead |archive-date= 21 June 2013 |title= Le Rafale restera au meilleur niveau technologique jusqu'en 2050 |trans-title=The Rafale will continue at the best technical level until 2050 |work= Les Échos |date= 17 June 2013 |access-date= 19 October 2013}}

At one stage, French officials were reportedly considering equipping the Rafale to launch miniaturised satellites.{{cite web |url= http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/aviation/press/in-the-air/in-the-air-2008/rafale-satellite-launcher-study.html |title=Rafale, satellite launcher study |publisher= Dassault Aviation|date=3 November 2008|access-date=19 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081227152626/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/aviation/press/in-the-air/in-the-air-2008/rafale-satellite-launcher-study.html |archive-date=27 December 2008}}

In January 2014, the defence ministry announced that funds had been allocated towards the development of the F3R standard. The standard includes the integration of the Meteor BVR missile, among other weapons and software updates.{{cite web |last=Perry |first= Dominic |title=France approves latest Rafale upgrade plan |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-approves-latest-rafale-upgrade-plan-394734/ |work= Flightglobal |date=10 January 2014 |access-date= 18 January 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140114010927/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/france-approves-latest-rafale-upgrade-plan-394734/ |archive-date=14 January 2014}}{{cite web |last= Tran |first= Pierre |url= http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140110/DEFREG01/301100018/France-Upgrade-Rafale-Arms-Electronics |archive-url= https://archive.today/20140118044537/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140110/DEFREG01/301100018/France-Upgrade-Rafale-Arms-Electronics |url-status=dead |archive-date= 18 January 2014 |title=France To Upgrade Rafale Arms, Electronics |work=Defense News |date=10 January 2014 |access-date =18 January 2014}} The standard was validated in 2018.{{cite web |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/rafale-f3-r-standard-qualified-dga/ |title=Rafale F3-R standard qualified by the DGA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228125335/https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/rafale-f3-r-standard-qualified-dga/ |archive-date=2019-02-28 |url-status=live}}

Development work started on the F4 standard in 2019. The design received radar and sensor upgrades that facilitate the detection of airborne stealth targets at long range, as well as improved capabilities in the helmet-mounted display. With improved communications equipment, it is also more effective in network-centric warfare. Flight tests were conducted starting in 2021 and the first F4-standard aircraft was delivered in 2023.{{Cite news|url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/03/07/french-air-force-receives-first-of-upgraded-rafale-f4-fighter-aircraft/|title=French Air Force receives first of upgraded Rafale F4 fighter aircraft|date=8 March 2023|work=Defense News|accessdate=28 April 2023}}{{cite web|title=Exclu : premier appontage d'un Rafale F4 sur le Charles-de-Gaulle |url=https://www.air-cosmos.com/article/exclu-premier-appontage-dun-rafale-f4-sur-le-charles-de-gaulle-25662|access-date=2021-12-28|website=Air et Cosmos|date=10 December 2021}} Previous aircraft will be upgraded to the standard, with a further 30 aircraft to be ordered in 2023.

The total programme cost, as of FY2013, was around €45.9 billion,{{cite web |url=http://www.senat.fr/rap/a13-158-8/a13-158-814.html |title=Projet de loi de finances pour 2014 : Défense : équipement des forces et excellence technologique des industries de défense |language=fr |publisher=Senate of France |date=21 November 2013 |access-date=2 July 2014 |quote=Avant prise en compte du projet de LPM, le coût total du programme pour l'Etat était de 45,9 Mds €2013. Le coût unitaire (hors coût de développement) de 74 M€2013 pour le Rafale B (pour 110 avions) de 68,8 M€2013 pour le Rafale C (pour 118 avions) et de 79 M€2011 pour le Rafale M (pour 58 avions)."
Translated: Before taking into account the draft Trademark Law, the total cost of the programme for the state was €45.9 billion 2013. Unit cost (excluding development costs) of €74M 2013 for the Rafale B (110 aircraft) €68.8M 2013 for the Rafale C (for 118 aircraft) and €79M 2011 for the Rafale M (58 aircraft). |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140326001026/http://www.senat.fr/rap/a13-158-8/a13-158-814.html |archive-date=26 March 2014 |url-status=live}} which translated to a unit programme cost of approximately €160.5 million. This figure takes in account improved hardware of the F3 standard, and which includes development costs over a period of 40 years, including inflation.{{cite journal |url=http://www.usinenouvelle.com/article/les-senateurs-reevaluent-le-prix-du-rafale.N164290 |title=Les sénateurs réévaluent le prix du Rafale|journal=L'Usine Nouvelle|language=fr|date=5 December 2011|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130318200605/http://www.usinenouvelle.com/article/les-senateurs-reevaluent-le-prix-du-rafale.N164290 |archive-date=18 March 2013|last1=Nouvelle|first1=L'Usine}} The unit flyaway price {{as of|2010|lc=on}} was €101.1 million for the F3+ version.{{cite web |url= http://www.ccomptes.fr/fr/CC/documents/RPA/1_conduite-des-programmes-armement.pdf |title= Rapport public annuel 2010: la conduite des programmes d'armement |trans-title=Annual public report 2010: the management of the arms programs |language= fr |place= FR |work= C comptes |date= 8 January 2012 |access-date=11 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120130003146/http://www.ccomptes.fr/fr/CC/documents/RPA/1_conduite-des-programmes-armement.pdf |archive-date=30 January 2012}}

The F5 standard will have more powerful engines, carry the ASN4G hypersonic nuclear missile, RBE2 XG radar, improved survivability and data links, and will be accompanied by an unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) weighing more than {{convert|10|MT|spell=in}}.{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/dassault-chief-trappier-outlines-roadmap-for-f5-standard-rafale/162075.article |title=Dassault chief Trappier outlines roadmap for F5-standard Rafale |work=FlightGlobal |last=Perry |first=Dominic |date=5 March 2025 |access-date=25 March 2025}}{{cite web |url=https://omnirole-rafale.com/avionique/rbe2/ |title=Rafale: Le radar RBE2 |website=omnirole-rafale.com |language=fr |access-date=25 March 2025}}{{cite web |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/france-budgets-eu117-billion-dassault-rafale-investments |title=France Budgets €11.7 Billion For Dassault Rafale Investments |work=Aviation Week |last=Chachaty |first=Helen |date=19 October 2023 |access-date=25 March 2025}}

The Rafale is planned to be the French Air and Space Force's primary combat aircraft until at least 2040.{{cite web |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/optimized-airframe.html?L=1|title=Optimized airframe |publisher=Dassault Aviation|access-date=13 September 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091206042026/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/optimized-airframe.html?L=1 |archive-date=6 December 2009}} In 2018, Dassault announced the successor to the Rafale as the New Generation Fighter. This fighter aircraft, under development by Dassault Aviation and Airbus Defence and Space, is to replace France's Rafale, Germany's Eurofighter Typhoon, and Spain's F/A-18 Hornet in the 2030–2040 timeframe.{{cite web |url=http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/25279/eurofighter-consortium-2-0-takes-shape-as-spain-set-to-join-franco-german-stealth-jet-program|title=Eurofighter Consortium 2.0 Takes Shape As Spain Set To Join Franco-German Stealth Jet Program|first=Joseph|last=Trevithick|website=The Drive|date=4 December 2018 |access-date=2 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181229171611/http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/25279/eurofighter-consortium-2-0-takes-shape-as-spain-set-to-join-franco-german-stealth-jet-program |archive-date=29 December 2018 |url-status=live}}

The Rafale was developed as a modern jet fighter with a very high level of agility; Dassault chose to combine a delta wing with active close-coupled canard to maximize maneuverability. The aircraft is capable of withstanding from −3.6 g to 9 g (10.5 g on Rafale solo display and a maximum of 11g can be reached in case of emergency{{cite book |page=31 |title= Rafale, Chasseur omnirôle |last1=Grolleau |first1=Henri-Pierre |date=1 October 2014}}{{cite web |url= http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=323 |title=France is sending not one but two Rafale fighters to the Aero India 2011 airshow which is to be held in Bangalore |place= IN |work=Defence News|date= 25 January 2011|access-date= 5 January 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131017084238/http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=323 |archive-date=17 October 2013}}). The Rafale is an aerodynamically unstable aircraft and uses digital fly-by-wire flight controls to artificially enforce and maintain stability.{{#tag:ref|Quote: "Longitudinal stability is moderately negative with a full fly-by-wire digital control system. The system is quadruple redundant with three digital channels and one separately designed analog channel. Design independence between channels is pivotal in preventing fatal flaws simultaneously affecting several channels due to software misconceptions."|group=N}} The aircraft's canards also act to reduce the minimum landing speed to {{convert|115|kn|lk=in}}; while in flight, airspeeds as low as {{convert|15|kn}} have been observed during training missions. According to simulations by Dassault, the Rafale has sufficient low speed performance to operate from STOBAR-configured aircraft carriers, and can take off using a ski-jump with no modifications.{{cite web |language= fr |url=http://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/le-rafale-marine-compatible-avec-les-porte-avions-dotes-de-tremplin|title=Le Rafale Marine compatible avec les porte-avions dotés de tremplin|trans-title=The Marine Rafale compatible with the catapult equipped aircraft carriers |work=Mer et Marine|date=25 June 2012 |access-date =15 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121021040621/http://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/le-rafale-marine-compatible-avec-les-porte-avions-dotes-de-tremplin |archive-date=21 October 2012}}

The Rafale M features a greatly reinforced undercarriage to cope with the additional stresses of naval landings, an arrestor hook, and "jump strut" nosewheel, which only extends during short takeoffs, including catapult launches. It also features a built-in ladder, carrier-based microwave landing system, and the new fin-tip Telemir system for syncing the inertial navigation system to external equipment.Williams 2002, p. 94. Altogether, the naval modifications of the Rafale M increase its weight by {{convert|500|kg|sigfig=2}} compared to other variants.Williams 2002, p. 95. The Rafale M retains about 95 percent commonality with Air Force variants including,Forsberg 1994, p. 213. although unusual for carrier-based aircraft, being unable to fold its multi-spar wings to reduce storage space. The size constraints were offset by the introduction of {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle|R91|2}}, France's first nuclear-powered carrier, which was considerably larger than previous carriers, Foch and Clemenceau.

Although not a full-aspect stealth aircraft, the cost of which was viewed as unacceptably excessive, the Rafale was designed for a reduced radar cross-section (RCS) and infrared signature.Richardson 2001, pp. 114–115.Forsberg 1994, p. 215. In order to reduce the RCS, changes from the initial technology demonstrator include a reduction in the size of the tail-fin, fuselage reshaping, repositioning of the engine air inlets underneath the aircraft's wing, and the extensive use of composite materials and serrated patterns for the construction of the trailing edges of the wings and canards. Seventy percent of the Rafale's surface area is composite.{{cite web |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/a-fully-optimized-airframe/ |title=A fully optimized airframe |publisher=Dassault Aviation |access-date=29 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151115093532/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/a-fully-optimized-airframe/ |archive-date=15 November 2015 |url-status=live}} Many of the features designed to reduce the Rafale's visibility to threats remain classified.

The Rafale's glass cockpit was designed around the principle of data fusion—a central computer selects and prioritises information to display to pilots for simpler command and control.{{cite web |quote= Implementation of the "multi-sensor data fusion" into the Rafale translates into accurate, reliable and strong tracks, uncluttered displays, reduced pilot workload, quicker pilot response, and eventually into increased situational awareness. |url= http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/power-of-multisensor-data-fusion.html |title= The sheer power of multisensor data fusion |publisher= Dassault Aviation |access-date= 20 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130522193935/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/power-of-multisensor-data-fusion.html |archive-date= 22 May 2013}} For displaying information gathered from a range of sensors across the aircraft, the cockpit features a wide-angle holographic head-up display (HUD) system, two head-down flat-panel colour multi-function displays (MFDs) as well as a central collimated display. These displays have been strategically placed to minimise pilot distraction from the external environment.Jarrett 2005, pp. 144–45. Some displays feature a touch interface for ease of human–computer interaction (HCI).Fiszer 2005, p. 43. A head-mounted display (HMD) remains to be integrated to take full advantage of its MICA missiles.{{cite web |url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/frances-rafale-05991/ |title=France's Rafale |date=18 October 2016 |work=Defense Industry Daily |access-date=31 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161113062350/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/frances-rafale-05991/ |archive-date=13 November 2016 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=Historique de la mise en service du Rafale |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/fr/defense/rafale/historique-de-la-mise-en-service-du-rafale/# |access-date=2024-02-06 |work=Dassault Aviation |language=fr}} The cockpit is fully compatible with night vision goggles (NVG). The primary flight controls are arranged in a hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS)-compatible configuration, with a right-handed side-stick controller and a left-handed throttle. The seat is inclined rearwards at an angle of 29° to improve g-force tolerance during manoeuvring and to provide a less restricted external pilot view.Jarrett 2005, p. 56.

File:Dassault Rafale DSC04183.JPG, 2005]]

Great emphasis has been placed on pilot workload minimisation across all operations. Among the features of the highly digitised cockpit is an integrated direct voice input (DVI) system, allowing a range of aircraft functions to be controlled by spoken voice commands, simplifying the pilot's access to many of the controls.{{cite journal |last =Collins |first= Peter |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/flight-test-dassault-rafale-rampant-rafale-334383/ |title=Flight Test: Dassault Rafale – Rampant Rafale|journal=Flight International|volume=176|issue=5214|date=10–16 November 2009|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120101020128/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/flight-test-dassault-rafale-rampant-rafale-334383/ |pages=74–78, 81|archive-date=1 January 2012}} For safety reasons, generally DVI is deliberately not employed for safety-critical elements of the aircraft's operation, such as the final release of weapons.Jarrett 2005, pp. 270–71.

In the area of life support, the Rafale is fitted with a Martin-Baker Mark 16F "zero-zero" ejection seat, capable of operation at zero speed and zero altitude. An on-board oxygen generating system, developed by Air Liquide, eliminates the need to carry bulky oxygen canisters.{{cite web |url=http://www.airliquide.com/en/space-aeronautics-embarked-systems/equipment-16/obogs-1.html|title=OBOGS|work=Air Liquide|access-date=5 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019130524/http://www.airliquide.com/en/space-aeronautics-embarked-systems/equipment-16/obogs-1.html |archive-date=19 October 2013 |url-status=dead}} The Rafale's flight computer has been programmed to counteract pilot disorientation and to employ automatic recovery of the aircraft during negative flight conditions. The auto-pilot and autothrottle controls are also integrated, and are activated by switches located on the primary flight controls. An intelligent flight suit worn by the pilot is automatically controlled by the aircraft to counteract in response to calculated g-forces.New Scientist 1986, p. 33.

The Rafale core avionics systems employ an integrated modular avionics (IMA), called MDPU (modular data processing unit). This architecture hosts all the main aircraft functions such as the flight management system, data fusion, fire control, and the man-machine interface.{{cite web |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/presse/Backgrounders/RAFALE_EN.doc|title=Rafale |publisher=Dassault Aviation|date=12 June 2005|access-date=15 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071204095221/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/presse/Backgrounders/RAFALE_EN.doc |archive-date=4 December 2007}}{{#tag:ref|Quote: "The core of the enhanced capabilities of the RAFALE lies in a new Modular Data Processing Unit (MDPU). It is composed of up to 18 flight line-replaceable modules, each with a processing power 50 times higher than that of the 2084 XRI-type computer fitted on the early versions of Mirage 2000-5."|group=N}} The total value of the radar, electronic communications and self-protection equipment is about 30 percent of the cost of the entire aircraft.{{cite web|author=Hoyle, Craig |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/paris-air-show-rafales-fighting-chance-327206/|title=Paris Air Show: Rafale's fighting chance|work=Flight Daily News|date=10 June 2009|access-date=19 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130411202313/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/paris-air-show-rafales-fighting-chance-327206/ |archive-date=11 April 2013}} The IMA has since been installed upon several upgraded Mirage 2000 fighters,{{cite web |url= http://www.arabianaerospace.aero/one-careful-owner-why-mirage-sale-might-be-no-illusion.html |title= One careful owner – why Mirage sale might be no illusion |work= Arabian Aerospace |date= 29 April 2010 |access-date=12 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130509182115/http://www.arabianaerospace.aero/one-careful-owner-why-mirage-sale-might-be-no-illusion.html |archive-date=9 May 2013}} and incorporated into the civilian airliner, the Airbus A380.{{cite news|author=Thomas, Geoffrey |url=http://atwonline.com/operations/a380-first-delivery|title=A380 First Delivery|newspaper=Air Transport World|date=1 October 2007|access-date=19 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130619235447/http://atwonline.com/operations/a380-first-delivery |archive-date=19 June 2013}} According to Dassault, the IMA greatly assists combat operations via data fusion, the continuous integration and analysis of the various sensor systems throughout the aircraft, and has been designed for the incorporation of new systems and avionics throughout the Rafale's service life.

File:RafaleSpectra_EN.png's elements]]

The Rafale features an integrated defensive-aids system named SPECTRA, which protects the aircraft against airborne and ground threats, developed as a joint venture between Thales and MBDA.{{cite web |url=http://www.mbda-systems.com/mediagallery/files/spectra_ds.pdf |title=SPECTRA integrated self-protection system for the Rafale |work=MBDA |access-date=5 January 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120417041201/http://www.mbda-systems.com/mediagallery/files/spectra_ds.pdf |archive-date=17 April 2012}} Various methods of detection, jamming, and decoying have been incorporated, and the system has been designed to be highly reprogrammable for addressing new threats and incorporating additional sub-systems in the future.Chaltiel, Pierre-Yves; Trouche, Jean-Marie; Bernard-Guelle, Christian. SPECTRA – Protection and avoidance system for the Rafale fighter aircraft fire control, "Nouvelle Revue d'Aeronautique et d'Astronautique." January–February 1997. pp. 23–33.{{#tag:ref|Quote: "SPECTRA provides all-weather reliable long-range detection, identification and location of threats, short response times and cutting-edge defensive measures based on combinations of jamming, decoying and evasive manoeuvres and on state-of-the-art technologies such as DRFM (Digital Radio Frequency Memory) signal processing."|group=N}} Operations over Libya were greatly assisted by SPECTRA, allowing Rafales to perform missions independently from the support of dedicated Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD) platforms.{{cite web|author=de Briganti, Giovanni |url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/feature/125860/rafale-in-combat:-"war-for-dummies".html|title=Rafale in Combat: 'War for Dummies'|work=Defense-aerospace|date=31 May 2011|access-date=5 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120114030618/http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/feature/125860/rafale-in-combat:-%E2%80%9Cwar-for-dummies%E2%80%9D.html |archive-date=14 January 2012 |url-status=live}}

The Rafale's ground attack capability is heavily reliant upon sensory targeting pods,{{cite web |url=http://week.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/theWeekContent.do?sectionName=Current+Events&contentId=5930830&programId=1073754900&pageTypeId=1073754893&contentType=EDITORIAL|title=Jet, set, go!|work=The Week|date=16 April 2011|access-date=16 April 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131019135204/http://week.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/theWeekContent.do?sectionName=Current+Events&contentId=5930830&programId=1073754900&pageTypeId=1073754893&contentType=EDITORIAL |archive-date= 19 October 2013 |url-status=live}} such as Thales Optronics's Reco New Generation/Areos reconnaissance pod and Damocles electro-optical/laser designation pod. Together, these systems provide targeting information, enable tactical reconnaissance missions, and are integrated with the Rafale's IMA architecture to provide analysed data feeds to friendly units and ground stations, as well as to the pilot.{{cite web |first= Jean-Michel |last= Guhl |url= http://www.aviationtoday.com/av/issue/cover/Rafale-in-Combat_73661.html |title= Rafale in Combat |work= Avionics |date= 1 July 2011 |access-date=21 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120302215838/http://www.aviationtoday.com/av/issue/cover/Rafale-in-Combat_73661.html |archive-date=2 March 2012}} Damocles provides targeting information to the various armaments carried by the Rafale and is directly integrated with the Rafale's VHF/UHF secure radio to communicate target information with other aircraft. It also performs other key functions such as aerial optical surveillance and is integrated with the navigation system as a FLIR.

The Damocles designation pod was described as "lacking competitiveness" when compared to rivals such as the Sniper and LITENING pods;{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20131123/DEFREG01/311230010/French-Boost-R-D-Across-Multiple-Programs |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20131125230242/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20131123/DEFREG01/311230010/French-Boost-R-D-Across-Multiple-Programs |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 November 2013 |title=French To Boost R&D Across Multiple Programs |last1=Tran |first1=Pierre |date=23 November 2013 |work=Defense News |access-date=25 November 2013}} so work began on an upgraded pod, designated Damocles XF, with additional sensors and added ability to transmit live video feeds.{{cite web |author=Hoyle, Craig |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/thales-outlines-sensor-enhancements-for-rafale-326767/ |title=Thales outlines sensor enhancements for Rafale|work=Flightglobal |date=20 May 2009 |access-date=12 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013175448/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/thales-outlines-sensor-enhancements-for-rafale-326767/ |archive-date=13 October 2012}} A new Thales targeting pod, the Talios, was officially unveiled at the 2014 Farnborough Air Show{{cite web |url=https://www.thalesgroup.com/sites/default/files/asset/document/20140718_3_207113734_014_ihs_janes_defence_weekly.pdf|title=Farnborough 2014: Thales debuts Talios pod|work=IHS Janes 360|date=17 July 2014|access-date=26 November 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151126103515/https://www.thalesgroup.com/sites/default/files/asset/document/20140718_3_207113734_014_ihs_janes_defence_weekly.pdf |archive-date=26 November 2015 |url-status=dead}} and is expected to be integrated on the Rafale by 2018.{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/52090/thales-secures-first-export-contract-for-talios-targeting-pod |title=Thales secures first export contract for TALIOS targeting pod – IHS Jane's 360 |work=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |date=8 June 2015 |access-date=29 October 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151226181130/http://www.janes.com/article/52090/thales-secures-first-export-contract-for-talios-targeting-pod |archive-date=26 December 2015}} Thales' Areos reconnaissance pod is an all-weather, night-and-day-capable reconnaissance system employed on the Rafale, and provides a significantly improved reconnaissance capability over preceding platforms.{{cite journal |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/Defence/Rafale/Fox_Three_N_14_UK2.pdf |title=Nowhere to hide |journal=Fox Three |publisher=Rafale International |volume=14 |date=December 2009 |page=12 |access-date=18 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130525194407/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/Defence/Rafale/Fox_Three_N_14_UK2.pdf |archive-date=25 May 2013}}{{#tag:ref|Quote: "According to DGA, Areos provides day identification capabilities that are two-and-a-half times better than those of the Mirage F1CR's Presto "wet-film" system and 8 times better than those of the legacy SDS250 photo pod of the Super-Étendard."|group=N}} Areos has been designed to perform reconnaissance under various mission profiles and condition, using multiple day/night sensors and its own independent communications datalinks.

File:Rafale-080521-N-2984R-066.jpg is visible above the nose cone, below the windscreen and to the side of the refueling probe]]

The Rafale was first outfitted with the Thales RBE2 passive electronically scanned multi-mode radar. Thales claims to have achieved increased levels of situational awareness as compared to earlier aircraft through the earlier detection and tracking of multiple air targets for close combat and long-range interception, as well as real-time generation of three-dimensional maps for terrain-following and the real-time generation of high resolution ground maps for navigation and targeting.{{cite web |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/smart-and-discrete-sensors.html?L=1|title=Smart and discrete sensors |publisher=Dassault Aviation|access-date=15 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120202130518/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/smart-and-discrete-sensors.html?L=1 |archive-date=2 February 2012}} In early 1994, it was reported that technical difficulties with the radar had delayed the Rafale's development by six months. In September 2006, Flight International reported the Rafale's unit cost had significantly increased due to additional development work to improve the RBE2's detection range.{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/fighter-improvements-follow-singapore-defeat-205047/|title=Fighter improvements follow Singapore defeat|newspaper=Flight Daily News|date=23 February 2006|access-date=21 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013175440/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/fighter-improvements-follow-singapore-defeat-205047/ |archive-date=13 October 2012}}

The RBE2 AA active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar now replaces the previous passively scanned RBE2. The RBE2 AA is reported to deliver a greater detection range of 200 km,{{cite book |page=9 |title= L'antenne ACTIVE dans l'aero |last1=Grolleau |first1=Henri-Pierre |date=1 November 2014}} improved reliability and reduced maintenance demands over the preceding radar. A Rafale demonstrator began test flights in 2002 and has totaled 100 flight hours {{as of|2011|12|lc=on}}. By December 2009, production of the pre-series RBE2 AA radars was underway. In early October 2012, the first Rafale equipped with an RBE2 AA radar arrived at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base for operational service (the development was described by Thales and Dassault as "on time and on budget").{{cite web|author=Hoyle, Craig |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-france-accepts-first-aesa-equipped-rafale-377216/|title=PICTURE: France accepts first AESA-equipped Rafale|work=Flightglobal|date=2 October 2012|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121007075747/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-france-accepts-first-aesa-equipped-rafale-377216/ |archive-date=7 October 2012}} By early 2014, the first Air Force front-line squadron were supposed to receive Rafales equipped with the AESA radar, following the French Navy which was slated to receive AESA-equipped Rafales starting in 2013.{{cite journal |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/Defence/Rafale/FOXTHREE_16.pdf|title=Enter the AESA and the METEOR|journal=Fox Three |publisher=Rafale International|volume=16|date=November 2011|page=3|access-date=18 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525233623/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/Defence/Rafale/FOXTHREE_16.pdf |archive-date=25 May 2013}}

To enable the Rafale to perform in the air supremacy role, it includes several passive sensor systems. The front-sector electro-optical system or Optronique Secteur Frontal (OSF), developed by Thales, is completely integrated within the aircraft and can operate both in the visible and infrared wavelengths.{{cite web |url=http://www.aviation-francaise.com/Bourget07-06.htm|title=L'optronique secteur frontal (L'OSF)|language=fr|work=Aviation-francaise.com|date=5 January 2012|access-date=11 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426072257/http://www.aviation-francaise.com/Bourget07-06.htm |archive-date=26 April 2012}} The OSF enables the deployment of infrared missiles such as the MICA at beyond visual range distances; it can also be used for detecting and identifying airborne targets, as well as those on the ground and at sea.{{cite web |url=http://www.ffaa.net/aircraft/rafale/caracteristiques.htm|title=Caractéristiques du Rafale M|language=fr|work=French Fleet Air Arm|access-date=14 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110201025908/http://www.ffaa.net/aircraft/rafale/caracteristiques.htm |archive-date=1 February 2011}} Dassault describes the OSF as being immune to jamming and capable of providing covert long-range surveillance. In 2012, an improved version of the OSF was deployed operationally.

Initial deliveries of the Rafale M were to the F1 ("France 1") standard, which were equipped for the air-to-air interceptor combat duties, but lacked any armament for air-to-ground operations. The F1 standard became operational in 2004.Wertheim 2007, pp. 202–203. Later deliveries were to the "F2" standard, which added the capability for conducting air-to-ground operations; the first F2 standard Rafale M was delivered to the French Navy in May 2006.{{cite journal |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/Defence/Rafale/foxThree_n11.pdf|title=Into combat with the Navy|journal=Fox Three|volume=11|date=June 2007 |publisher=Rafale International|page=12|access-date=18 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130526003833/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/Defence/Rafale/foxThree_n11.pdf |archive-date=26 May 2013}} Starting in 2008 onwards, Rafale deliveries have been to the nuclear-capable F3 standard that also added reconnaissance with the Areos reconnaissance pod, and it has been reported that all aircraft built to the earlier F1 and F2 standards are to be upgraded to become F3s.

File:Dassault Rafale weaponry DSC04186.JPG

F3 standard Rafales are capable of undertaking many different mission roles with a range of equipment, namely air defence/superiority missions with Mica IR and EM air-to-air missiles, and precision ground attacks typically using SCALP EG cruise missiles and AASM Hammer air-to-surface missiles. In addition, anti-shipping missions could be carried out using the AM39 Exocet sea skimming missile, while reconnaissance flights would use a combination of onboard and external pod-based sensor equipment. Furthermore, the aircraft could conduct nuclear strikes when armed with ASMP-A missiles.{{cite journal |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_8.pdf|title=French Ministry of Defence orders a further 59 Rafale fighters|journal=Fox Three|year=2005|volume=8|page=3|access-date=18 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525192408/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_8.pdf |archive-date=25 May 2013}} In 2010, France ordered 200 MBDA Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAM) which greatly increases the distance at which the Rafale can engage aerial targets.{{cite journal |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2012/08/Fox_Three_N_14_UK2.pdf|title=Rafale, the omnirole fighter|journal=Fox Three|date=December 2009|issue=14 |publisher=Rafale International|access-date=5 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024124544/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2012/08/Fox_Three_N_14_UK2.pdf |archive-date=24 October 2013 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |first= Craig |last= Hoyle |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-rafale-clears-meteor-safe-separation-test-377798/ |title= PICTURES: Rafale clears Meteor safe separation test |work= Flightglobal |date= 18 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023091520/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-rafale-clears-meteor-safe-separation-test-377798/ |archive-date=23 October 2012}}

The F4 standard program was launched on 20 March 2017 by the French ministry of defence.{{cite press release|title=Rafale : vers le standard F4 |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/fr/groupe/presse/press-kits/rafale-vers-standard-f4/|access-date=2021-11-24|website=Dassault Aviation|language=French |date= 22 March 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170413071132/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fr/dassault-aviation/presse/press-kits/rafale-vers-standard-f4/ |archive-date=13 April 2017}} The first F4.1 standard test aircraft was delivered in March 2023.{{cite web |title=Latest-Generation Rafale Fighter Enters French Air Force Service |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2023-03-07/latest-generation-rafale-fighter-enters-french-air-force-service#:~:text=The%20F4%20standard%20focuses%20on,Combat%20Air%20System%20(FCAS). |website=AIN Online |date=7 March 2023}}

For compatibility with armaments of varying types and origins, the Rafale's onboard store management system is compliant with MIL-STD-1760, an electrical interface between an aircraft and its carriage stores, thereby simplifying the incorporation of many of their existing weapons and equipment. The Rafale is typically outfitted with 14 hardpoints (only 13 on Rafale M version), five of which are suitable for heavy armament or equipment such as auxiliary fuel tanks, and has a maximum external load capacity of nine tons. In addition to the above equipment, the Rafale carries the 30 mm GIAT 30 revolver cannon and can be outfitted with a range of laser-guided bombs and ground-attack munitions. According to Dassault, the Rafale's onboard mission systems enable ground attack and air-to-air combat operations to be carried out within a single sortie, with many functions capable of simultaneous execution in conjunction with another, increasing survivability and versatility.

{{Main|Snecma M88}}

File:Salon du Bourget 20090619 045.jpg

The Rafale is fitted with two Snecma M88 engines, each capable of providing up to {{convert|50|kN|lbf|abbr=off}} of dry thrust and {{convert|75|kN|abbr=on}} with afterburners. The engines feature several advances, including a non-polluting{{clarify|date=June 2021}} combustion chamber, single-crystal turbine blades, powder metallurgy disks, and technology to reduce radar and infrared signatures. The M88 enables the Rafale to supercruise while carrying four missiles and one drop tank.{{cite journal |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_8.pdf|title=Air defense mission for flotille F12|journal=Fox Three |publisher=Rafale International|volume=8|year=2005|page=8|access-date=30 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071122095016/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_8.pdf |archive-date=22 November 2007}}{{cite book|editor1=Desclaux, Jacques |editor2=Serre, Jacques |chapter=M88 – 2 E4: Advanced New Generation Engine for Rafale Multirole Fighter|title=AIAA/ICAS International Air and Space Symposium and Exposition: The Next 100 Years|location=Dayton, Ohio |publisher=American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics|date=14–17 July 2003|isbn=978-1-56347-601-3}}

Qualification of the M88-2 engine ended in 1996 and the first production engine was delivered by the end of the year. Due to delays in engine production, the Rafale A demonstrator was initially powered by the General Electric F404 engine.{{cite news |url= http://www.hindu.com/2007/02/08/stories/2007020806220500.htm |title= Kaveri: Safran ready to invest 50 p.c. of cost |date= 8 February 2007 |access-date=15 January 2013 |url-status= dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012090931/http://hindu.com/2007/02/08/stories/2007020806220500.htm|newspaper= The Hindu |archive-date=12 October 2007}} In May 2010, a Rafale flew for the first time with the M88-4E engine, an upgraded variant with lower maintenance requirements than the preceding M88-2.{{cite web |url=http://www.defencetalk.com/rafale-fighter-flies-with-upgraded-m88-4e-engine-26198/|title=Rafale Fighter Flies with Upgraded M88-4E Engine|work=Defense Talk|date=7 May 2010|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012011420/http://www.defencetalk.com/rafale-fighter-flies-with-upgraded-m88-4e-engine-26198/ |archive-date=12 October 2013}} The engine is of a modular design for ease of construction and maintenance and to enable older engines to be retrofitted with improved subsections upon availability, such as existing M88-2s being upgraded to M88-4E standard.{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/snecma-m88-51979/ |title= Snecma M88 |work= Flightglobal |date= 9 June 1999 |access-date=12 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131020012652/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/snecma-m88-51979/ |archive-date= 20 October 2013 |url-status=live}} There has been interest in more powerful M88 engines by potential export customers, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE).{{cite news |first= Andrea |last= Rothman |url= https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=aFrH_eB2JC7w&refer=home |title= Safran Says It's Working on New Rafale Jet Engines for U.A.E. |publisher= Bloomberg L.P. |date= 28 May 2011 |access-date=11 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131023181827/http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=aFrH_eB2JC7w&refer=home |archive-date= 23 October 2013 |url-status=live}} {{As of|2007}}, a thrust vectoring variant of the engine designated as M88-3D was also under development.

File:Rafale Theodore Roosevelt02.jpg

In December 2000, the French Naval Aviation (Aéronavale), the air arm of the French Navy, received its first two Rafale M fighters. On 18 May the following year, the squadron Flottille 12F, which had previously operated the F-8 Crusader, became the first squadron to operate the Rafale after it was officially re-activated prior to the delivery of the sixth Rafale.{{cite journal |title=The first Rafales join the French Navy |journal=Interavia Business & Technology |publisher=Aerospace Media Publishing |pages=20–21 |date=1 July 2001}} Flottille 12F immediately participated in Trident d'Or aboard the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle with warships from ten other nations. During the maritime exercise, the Navy tested the Rafale's avionics during simulated interceptions with various foreign aircraft, in addition to carrier take-offs and landings.{{cite journal |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_3.pdf|title=Rafale: Multinational Success|journal=Fox Three |publisher=Rafale International|volume=3|date=December 2001|page=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130526010342/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_3.pdf |archive-date=26 May 2013}} After almost four years of training, the Rafale M was declared operational with the French Navy in June 2004.{{cite news|title=Rafale fighters take off from French air force |agency=Associated Press|date=27 June 2006}}

The Rafale M is fully compatible with United States Navy aircraft carriers and some French Navy pilots have qualified to fly the aircraft from US Navy flight decks.{{cite press release|last=Suits|first=John |url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=38585|title=French Sailors Experience Flight Operations Aboard Roosevelt |publisher=United States Navy|date=22 July 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131104113512/http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=38585 |archive-date= 4 November 2013 |url-status=dead}} On 4 June 2010, during an exercise on {{USS|Harry S. Truman}}, a French Rafale became the first jet fighter of a foreign navy to have its engine replaced on board an American aircraft carrier.{{cite web|author=Cerezo, Katharine |url=http://www.defpro.com/news/details/15820/|title=French Squadron Performs Jet Engine Swap-Out on Board Truman|work=Defpro.com|date=8 June 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120615075759/http://www.defpro.com/news/details/15820/ |archive-date= 15 June 2012 |url-status=unfit}}

In 2002, the Rafales were first deployed to a combat zone; seven Rafale Ms embarked aboard Charles de Gaulle of the French Navy during "Mission Héraclès", the French participation in "Operation Enduring Freedom". They flew from the aircraft carrier over Afghanistan, but the F1 standard precluded air-to-ground missions and the Rafale did not see any action. In March 2002, the aircraft carrier was stationed in the Gulf of Oman, where its complement of Rafales undertook training operations.MacKenzie 2002, p. 36. In June 2002, while Charles de Gaulle was in the Arabian Sea, Rafales conducted several patrols near the India-Pakistan border.Fiszer 2005, p. 50."En Garde!" Journal of Electronic Defense. August 2002.

In 2016, Rafales operating from Charles de Gaulle struck targets associated with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (IS).{{cite news |url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/17/middleeast/france-nuclear-carrier-mosul-iraq-isis/index.html|title=On board the French nuclear carrier battling ISIS|first=Fred|last=Pleitgen|date=17 October 2016 |publisher=CNN|access-date=17 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161017114441/http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/17/middleeast/france-nuclear-carrier-mosul-iraq-isis/index.html |archive-date=17 October 2016 |url-status=live}}

In December 2015, American and French military officials reportedly discussed the possibility of French naval Rafale Ms flying combat missions from a US Navy {{sclass|Nimitz|aircraft carrier|2}} as soon as January 2017. This would enable continued French Navy operations against ISIL while Charles de Gaulle undergoes its year-and-a-half-long major refit, scheduled to begin in early 2017. Although Rafales have launched and landed on U.S. carriers to demonstrate interoperability, it would be the first time they would fly combat missions from one. As many as 18 Rafale Ms could be deployed on a carrier, although some room would have to be made for French Navy support crews familiar with maintaining the Rafale, as well as for spare parts and munitions.{{citation needed|date=May 2025}} Operation Chesapeake, a test of this interoperability, was conducted in May 2018, when 12 Rafales of Flottilles 11F, 12F, and 17F, along with nearly 350 support personnel embarked aboard USS George H.W. Bush for two weeks of carrier qualifications and exercises after conducting a month of shore based training at Naval Air Station Oceana.{{cite web |url=https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2018/03/27/french-aircrews-ready-to-train-in-norfolk|title=French aircrews ready to train in Norfolk|date=27 March 2018}} Navy Times. Retrieved 10 May 2018.

On 9 January 2025, Rafale M conducted joint anti-aircraft drills with Su-30MKI and Jaguar aircraft of the Indian Air Force. The French Carrier Strike Group (CSG) centered on the Charles de Gaulle, the carrier air wing including Rafale M, her escort ships and fleet support ship Jacques Chevallier were on a visit to India between 4 and 9 January 2025 during the Mission Clemenceau 25. Simultaneously, {{ship|INS|Mormugao|D67|6}} conducted joint navigational drills and Maritime Partnership Exercise with the escort ships.{{Cite web |title=French Navy Conducts Air-Sea Tactical Manoeuvres With Indian Navy |url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/french-navy-conducts-air-sea-tactical-manoeuvres-with-indian-navy-7465751 |access-date=14 January 2025 |website=www.ndtv.com |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=10 January 2025 |title=Kochi: Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, French Navy participate in Maritime Partnership Exercise |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/kochi-indian-navy-indian-air-force-french-navy-participate-in-maritime-partnership-exercise/articleshow/117125177.cms?from=mdr |access-date=14 January 2025 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}

File:Rafale-IMG 1408.jpg

In April 2005, the Air Force received its first three F2 standard Rafale Bs at the Centre d'expertise aérienne militaire (CEAM, i.e. the Military Air Expertise Centre) at Mont-de-Marsan, where they were tasked to undertake operational evaluation and pilot conversion training.Fiszer 2005, p. 44. By this time, it was expected that Escadron de Chasse (Fighter Squadron) 1/7 at Saint-Dizier would receive a nucleus of 8–10 Rafale F2s during the summer of 2006, in preparation for full operational service (with robust air-to-air and stand off air-to-ground precision attack capabilities) starting from mid-2007 (when EC 1/7 would have about 20 aircraft, 15 two-seaters and five single-seaters).{{cite journal |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_8.pdf|title=French Air Force Omnirole Fighters Enter Service|journal=Fox Three |publisher=Rafale International|volume=8|year=2005|page=4 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525192408/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_8.pdf |archive-date=25 May 2013}}

In 2007, a "crash program" upgrade on six Rafales enabled the use of laser-guided bombs in readiness for action in Afghanistan. Three of these aircraft of the Air Force were deployed to Dushanbe in Tajikistan, while the three others were Rafale Marine of the Navy on board Charles De Gaulle.{{cite news |url=http://www.lefigaro.fr/international/20070315.FIG000000217_paris_engage_des_rafale_en_afghanistan.html|title=Paris engage des Rafale en Afghanistan |language=fr |newspaper=Le Figaro|date=15 March 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070317202100/http://www.lefigaro.fr/international/20070315.FIG000000217_paris_engage_des_rafale_en_afghanistan.html |archive-date=17 March 2007}} The first mission occurred on 12 March 2007, and the first GBU-12 was launched on 28 March in support of embattled Dutch troops in Southern Afghanistan, marking the operational début of the Rafale.{{cite news|title=Le Rafale, bon pour le bombardement|language=fr|newspaper=Midi Libre|date=2 March 2007}} Between January 2009 and December 2011, a minimum of three Rafales were stationed at Kandahar International Airport to conduct operations in support of NATO ground forces.{{cite web |url= http://www.lefigaro.fr/flash-actu/2011/12/01/97001-20111201FILWWW00562-afghanistan-3-rafale-francais-retires.php |title= Afghanistan : 3 Rafale français retirés |date= 1 December 2011 |language=fr|work= Le Figaro |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111204012911/http://www.lefigaro.fr/flash-actu/2011/12/01/97001-20111201FILWWW00562-afghanistan-3-rafale-francais-retires.php |archive-date=4 December 2011}}

On 19 March 2011, French Rafales began conducting reconnaissance and strike missions over Libya in Opération Harmattan, in support of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1973; initial targets were artillery pieces laying siege around the rebel city of Benghazi.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-12795971|title=French military jets over Libya|publisher=BBC News|date=19 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110320125209/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-12795971 |archive-date=20 March 2011}} The Rafale could operate in Libya without the support of SEAD aircraft, using the onboard SPECTRA self-defence system instead. On 24 March 2011, it was reported that a Rafale had destroyed a Libyan Air Force G-2/Galeb light attack/trainer aircraft on the runway.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-12850975|title=French fighter shoots down Libyan jet|publisher=BBC News|date=24 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110326085302/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-12850975 |archive-date=26 March 2011}} During the deployment, Rafale destroyed multiple SAM systems of Libyan military using its geolocation feature and with a mix of different ammunition. Unlike other allied aircraft, the Rafale did not require any dedicated EW/EA aircraft for escort.{{cite web |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/india/from-libya-to-mali-operation-history-of-battle-hardened-rafale#read-more#read-more |title=Libya to Syria: Operational History of 'Battle-Hardened' Rafale |date=28 July 2020}}

Rafales typically conducted six-hour sorties over Libyan airspace, armed with four MICA air-to-air missiles, four or six AASM "Hammer" bombs, a Thales Damoclès targeting pod and two drop tanks. Each sortie needed multiple aerial refuelling operations from coalition tanker aircraft.{{cite web |author= Craig Hoyle |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/frances-rafale-fighter-proves-its-omnirole-skills-357687/|title=France's Rafale fighter proves its omnirole skills|work=Flightglobal |date=14 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930011123/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/frances-rafale-fighter-proves-its-omnirole-skills-357687/ |archive-date=30 September 2011}} The AASM precision-guidance weapon system allowed the Rafale to conduct high-altitude bombing missions using bombs weighing between {{convert|125|and|1000|kg|abbr=on|sigfig=2}}. Reportedly, Rafale crews preferred to use GPS-guided munitions with greater reliability and range. SCALP weapons were deployed on only one or two sorties, such as against a Libyan airbase at Al-Jufra.{{cite web |author=Eshel, Tamir |url=http://defense-update.com/20111012_france-spent-over-1000-bombs-and-missiles-in-the-7-month-libyan-campaign.html |title=France Spent Over 1,000 Bombs and Missiles in the 7 Month Libyan Campaign|work=Defense Update |date=12 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111013130846/http://defense-update.com/20111012_france-spent-over-1000-bombs-and-missiles-in-the-7-month-libyan-campaign.html |archive-date=13 October 2011}} In 2011, aviation journalist Craig Hoyle speculated that the Rafale's Libyan performance is likely to impact export sales, noting that the Rafale had maintained a high operational rate throughout. Hoyle also noted that the conflict had led to several urgent operational requirements, including a lighter ground-attack munition and AASM modifications for close air support.

File:A French air force Rafale aircraft breaks formation after refueling from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron (EARS) over an undisclosed 130317-F-BY961-185.jpg in Mali, 2013]]

In January 2013, the Rafale took part in Opération Serval, the French military intervention in support to the government of Mali against the Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-21002918 |title=France Rafale jets target Gao in eastern Mali |publisher=BBC News |date=13 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130115001028/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-21002918 |archive-date=15 January 2013}} The first mission was carried out on 13 January, when four Rafales took off from an airbase in France to strike rebel training camps, depots and facilities in the city of Gao in eastern Mali.{{cite news |url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2013/01/13/260292.html |title=Algeria grants airspace to French jets for raids in Mali |newspaper=Al Arabiya News |date=13 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102180741/http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2013/01/13/260292.html |archive-date=2 November 2013 |url-status=dead |access-date=14 January 2013}} Subsequent airstrikes in the following days by Rafale and Mirage fighters were reportedly instrumental in the withdrawal of Islamist militant forces from Timbuktu and Douentza.{{cite news |url= http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/islamists-flee-french-airstrikes-in-mali/story-e6frg6so-1226554413181 |title= Islamists flee French airstrikes in Mali |newspaper=The Australian |date= 15 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140319010955/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/islamists-flee-french-airstrikes-in-mali/story-e6frg6so-1226554413181 |archive-date= 19 March 2014 |url-status=live}} Both Rafale and Mirage 2000D aircraft used in the conflict have been based outside of North Africa, making use of aerial refuelling tanker aircraft to fly long range sorties across Algerian airspace and into Mali.{{cite news |first= James |last= Blitz |url= http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/d5e7f224-63f2-11e2-84d8-00144feab49a.html#axzz2Ii01uZkm |title= France and US bicker over fuel |work= Financial Times|location=London |date= 21 January 2013 |url-access=subscription |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130126034826/http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/d5e7f224-63f2-11e2-84d8-00144feab49a.html |archive-date= 26 January 2013 |url-status=live}}

In August 2013, it was proposed that France may halve the number of Rafales to be delivered over the next six years for a total of 26 aircraft to be delivered during this period; foreign export procurement have been viewed as critical to maintain production under this proposal. While production would be slowed, France would still receive the same number of Rafales overall.{{cite web|author=Rahir, Patrick |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130802/DEFREG01/308020007/France-Cut-Rafale-Order-Betting-Exports |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130804055858/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130802/DEFREG01/308020007/France-Cut-Rafale-Order-Betting-Exports |url-status=dead |archive-date=4 August 2013|title=France To Cut Rafale Order; Betting on Exports|work=Defense News|date=2 August 2013|access-date=28 August 2013}}

In September 2014, Rafales started reconnaissance missions over Iraq for Opération Chammal, France's contribution to the international effort to combat IS militants. Six Rafales were initially tasked with identifying IS positions in support of US airstrikes, flying from Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE.{{cite news |url=http://www.lefigaro.fr/international/2014/09/15/01003-20140915ARTFIG00075-premiers-vols-francais-de-reconnaissance-en-irak.php |title=Premiers vols français de reconnaissance en Irak |language=fr |newspaper=Le Figaro |date=15 September 2014 |access-date=4 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141004025602/http://www.lefigaro.fr/international/2014/09/15/01003-20140915ARTFIG00075-premiers-vols-francais-de-reconnaissance-en-irak.php |archive-date=4 October 2014 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20141001/DEFREG04/310010041/France-Deploy-More-Fighter-Jets-Warship-Islamic-State-Fight |archive-url=https://archive.today/20141004152521/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20141001/DEFREG04/310010041/France-Deploy-More-Fighter-Jets-Warship-Islamic-State-Fight |url-status=dead |archive-date=4 October 2014 |title=France To Deploy More Fighter Jets, Warship in Islamic State Fight |newspaper=Defense News |date=1 October 2014|access-date=7 October 2014}} On 18 September, Rafales joined American attack operations, launching four strikes near the Northern Iraqi town of Zummar that destroyed a logistics depot and killed dozens of IS fighters.{{cite web |last=Jennings |first=Gareth |url=http://www.janes.com/article/43451/french-rafale-jets-strike-is-in-iraq |title=French Rafale jets strike IS in Iraq |work=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |date=19 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140921024655/http://www.janes.com/article/43451/french-rafale-jets-strike-is-in-iraq |archive-date=21 September 2014}}{{cite web|last=Keaten |first=Jamey |url=http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20140919/NEWS08/309190061/France-strikes-depot-Iraq |title=France strikes IS depot in Iraq |work=Military Times |date=19 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140919124928/http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20140919/NEWS08/309190061/France-strikes-depot-Iraq |archive-date=19 September 2014}} In April 2018, during the Syrian Civil War, five Rafale Bs from the Escadron de Chasse 1/4 Gascogne participated in the 2018 missile strikes against Syria. Each was loaded with two SCALP EG missiles.{{cite web |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2018/04/14/politics/syria-airstrikes-weapons-used-intl/index.html|title=Weapons the US, UK and France used to target Syria|first=Brad |last=Lendon |date=14 April 2018 |publisher=CNN|access-date=14 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180414172449/https://edition.cnn.com/2018/04/14/politics/syria-airstrikes-weapons-used-intl/index.html |archive-date=14 April 2018 |url-status=live}} French Air and Space Force Rafales were deployed to help blunt the Iranian attack against Israel on 13 April 2024 by shooting down an unspecified number of unmanned aerial vehicles. The Rafales, based in Jordan, were operating in Iraqi and Syrian airspace as part of Opération Chammal.{{cite web | url=https://www.rfi.fr/en/international/20240415-france-intercepted-iranian-drones-during-attack-on-israel-calls-for-restraint | title=France intercepted Iranian drones during attack on Israel | date=15 April 2024}}{{cite web | url=https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/french-rafale-fighters-neutralize-iranian-drones#:~:text=French%20Rafale%20fighters%20scramble%20to%20neutralize%20Iranian%20drones%20over%20Jordan&text=French%20Rafale%20fighters%20scrambled%20to,missiles%20and%20drones%20against%20Israel. | title=French Rafale fighters scramble to neutralize Iranian drones | date=15 April 2024}}

In November 2014, Egypt was reportedly in negotiations with France to purchase 24 to 36 Rafales, subject to a financing and weapons package agreement.{{cite news |url=http://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/20141016tribc7ee06519/exportation-d-armes-3-4-l-egypte-la-divine-surprise-en-2014.html |title=Exportation d'armes (3/4) : l'Egypte, la divine surprise en 2014 |work=La Tribune |language=fr |last=Cabirol |first=Michel |date=16 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141111030948/http://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/20141016tribc7ee06519/exportation-d-armes-3-4-l-egypte-la-divine-surprise-en-2014.html |archive-date=11 November 2014 |url-status=live}} By February 2015, the two countries were negotiating a loan from France's export credit agency to reach an export agreement for up to 24 Rafales. The condition for Egypt to buy the 12 additional fighters was to get SCALP-EG missiles, this was compromised by the US blocking the deal.{{cite web |date=2018-09-07 |title=Réglementation ITAR : la France veut réduire sa dépendance aux Etats-Unis |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/reglementation-itar-la-france-veut-reduire-sa-dependance-aux-composants-americains-789612.html |access-date=2024-01-23 |website=La Tribune |language=fr}} Egypt aimed for the deal's quick completion as to have them on display at the inauguration of the Suez Canal expansion in August 2015.{{cite web|last=Bruneau|first=Caroline |url=http://aviationweek.com/blog/egypt-possible-first-export-customer-french-rafale |title=Egypt Is Possible First Export Customer For French Rafale|work=Aviation Week & Space Technology |date=6 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207010410/http://aviationweek.com/blog/egypt-possible-first-export-customer-french-rafale |archive-date=7 February 2015}}

On 16 February 2015, Egypt became the Rafale's first international customer when it officially ordered 24 Rafales,{{cite news |url= http://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/exportation-du-rafale-les-inquietudes-de-l-armee-de-l-air-482410.html |work= La Tribune |title= Exportation du Rafale : les inquiétudes de l'armée de l'air |date= 9 June 2015 |language= fr |archive-url= https://archive.today/20150615182756/http://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/exportation-du-rafale-les-inquietudes-de-l-armee-de-l-air-482410.html |archive-date= 15 June 2015 |url-status=live}} as part of a larger deal, including a FREMM multipurpose frigate and missiles, worth US$5.9 billion (€5.2 billion).{{cite web |last=Lert |first=Frédéric |url=http://www.janes.com/article/49025/egypt-officially-signs-for-24-rafales-fremm-frigate-and-missiles|title=Egypt officially signs for 24 Rafales, FREMM frigate, and missiles|date=16 February 2015|work=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218001612/http://www.janes.com/article/49025/egypt-officially-signs-for-24-rafales-fremm-frigate-and-missiles |archive-date=18 February 2015}}{{cite news |url=http://www.france24.com/en/20150216-france-egypt-sign-deal-sale-rafale-fighter-jets/|title=Egypt, France to conclude €5.2 billion deal for Rafale jets |publisher=France 24|date=16 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150216200821/http://www.france24.com/en/20150216-france-egypt-sign-deal-sale-rafale-fighter-jets/ |archive-date=16 February 2015}} The order comprised 8 single-seat models and 16 two-seaters. In July 2015, a ceremony marking Egypt's acceptance of its first three Rafales, was held at Dassault's flight test center in Istres.{{cite press release |url= http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/dassault-aviation/press/press-kits/dassault-aviation-delivers-first-rafales-to-the-arab-republic-of-egypt/ |publisher= Dassault Aviation |title= Dassault Aviation delivers first Rafales to the Arab Republic of Egypt |date= 20 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721214925/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/dassault-aviation/press/press-kits/dassault-aviation-delivers-first-rafales-to-the-arab-republic-of-egypt/ |archive-date=21 July 2015}} In January 2016, Egypt received three more Rafales.{{cite news |url= http://www.defenseworld.net/news/15188/Egypt_Receives_Three_More_Rafale_Fighters_From_France#.VqoUdvl97IU |website= defenseworld.net |title= Egypt Receives Three More Rafale Fighters From France|access-date= 28 January 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160205073049/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/15188/Egypt_Receives_Three_More_Rafale_Fighters_From_France#.VqoUdvl97IU |archive-date= 5 February 2016 |url-status=live}} All six aircraft are two-seat models (Rafale DM) diverted from French Air Force deliveries.{{cite web |last=Hoyle|first=Craig |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rafale-exports-take-off-with-egyptian-delivery-414800/ |title=Rafale exports take off with Egyptian delivery|work=Flightglobal|date=20 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151119064448/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rafale-exports-take-off-with-egyptian-delivery-414800/ |archive-date=19 November 2015}} Egypt received the third batch of three Rafales flown by Egyptian pilots from France in April 2017; this included the first single-seat model (Rafale EM) to be delivered to the Egyptian Air Force.{{cite news |url= http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/262360/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-receives-third-batch-of-Rafale-fighter-jets-.aspx |work= ahram.org.eg |title= Egypt receives third batch of Rafale fighter jets from France |date= 5 April 2017|access-date= 5 April 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170405182257/http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/262360/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-receives-third-batch-of-Rafale-fighter-jets-.aspx |archive-date= 5 April 2017 |url-status=live}} Egypt took delivery of the fourth batch of two Rafale EMs in July 2017.{{cite news |url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/274281/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-receives-fourth-batch-of-Rafale-fighter-jets.aspx|title=Egypt receives fourth batch of Rafale fighter jets from France|date=26 July 2017|newspaper=Ahram Online |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728042416/http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/274281/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-receives-fourth-batch-of-Rafale-fighter-jets.aspx |archive-date=28 July 2017 |url-status=live}} The fifth batch, comprising the last 3 Rafale EMs, was delivered in November 2017, increasing the number in service to 14 Rafales.{{cite news |url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=50062:egypt-takes-delivery-of-additional-rafales-looks-to-acquire-more&catid=35:Aerospace&Itemid=107|title=Egypt takes delivery of additional Rafales; looks to acquire more|date=1 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171208070740/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=50062:egypt-takes-delivery-of-additional-rafales-looks-to-acquire-more&catid=35:Aerospace&Itemid=107 |archive-date=8 December 2017 |url-status=live}}

In June 2016, Egypt begun negotiations with Dassault to acquire 12 additional Rafales, intending to exercise an option of the first contract.{{cite news |first=Michel |last=Cabirol |url=http://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/et-si-l-egypte-achetait-12-rafale-de-plus-en-2016-579182.html |title=Et si l'Egypte achetait 12 Rafale de plus en 2016 |newspaper=La Tribune |language=fr |date=15 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160616181112/http://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/et-si-l-egypte-achetait-12-rafale-de-plus-en-2016-579182.html |archive-date=16 June 2016 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://www.defenseworld.net/news/16395/Egyptian_Additional_12_Rafale_Order_May_Delay_Indian_Deliveries_Further#.V3KcI7h97IU|title=Egyptian Additional 12 Rafale Order May Delay Indian Deliveries Further|work=defenseworld.net|access-date=23 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160930174612/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/16395/Egyptian_Additional_12_Rafale_Order_May_Delay_Indian_Deliveries_Further#.V3KcI7h97IU |archive-date=30 September 2016 |url-status=live}} An Egyptian delegation visited France in November 2017 for negotiations.{{cite news |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/douze-nouveaux-rafale-a-l-egypte-bercy-ne-bloque-plus-les-negociations-758088.html|title=Douze nouveaux Rafale à l'Egypte|date=16 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171208070715/https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/douze-nouveaux-rafale-a-l-egypte-bercy-ne-bloque-plus-les-negociations-758088.html |archive-date=8 December 2017 |url-status=live}} In May 2021, Egypt ordered 30 more Rafales in a contract worth $4.5bn after France achieved making the SCALP EG missile ITAR-free by replacing the US-made parts with French-made components.{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/france-sell-30-rafale-fighter-jets-egypt-investigative-website-2021-05-03/|title=France to sell Egypt 30 fighter jets in $4.5 bln deal -Egyptian defense ministry, report|date=3 May 2021|work=Reuters}}{{cite web |last=Mackenzie |first=Christina |title=Egypt bumps up its Rafale fleet by 30 new planes |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2021/05/04/egypt-bumps-up-its-rafale-fleet-by-30-new-planes/ |date=2021-05-04 |website=Defense News |access-date=2021-05-04}} The Egyptian Air Force is interested in buying the Rafale F4 variant once Dassault prepares it for foreign buyers.{{cite web|website=Breaking Defense|date=2021-05-19|title=Egyptian Deal For Rafale Fighters Boosts Data Sharing |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2021/05/egyptian-deal-for-rafale-fighters-boosts-data-sharing/}}

Analysts view the relatively quick series of 84{{cite news |first=Bill |last=Sweetman |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/opinion-saab-and-dassault-strengthen-their-fighter-market-positions |title=Opinion: Saab And Dassault Strengthen Their Fighter-Market Positions |work=Aviation Week & Space Technology |date=13 May 2015 |access-date=13 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150513215417/http://aviationweek.com/defense/opinion-saab-and-dassault-strengthen-their-fighter-market-positions |archive-date=13 May 2015 |url-status=live}} orders from Egypt and Qatar as being influenced by the Arab Spring and uncertainty of US involvement in the Middle East.{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/strike/2015/05/10/fighter-surge-kuwait-qatar-egypt-india-rafale-hornet/26977289/ |title=Surge in Jet Purchases Reshuffles Market |date=10 May 2015 |work=Defense News |access-date=14 May 2015}}

File:QA217 - Dassault Rafale - Qatar Air Force (47734694781).jpg

The Qatar Emiri Air Force evaluated the Rafale alongside the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the Boeing F-15E, the Eurofighter Typhoon and the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II to replace its Dassault Mirage 2000-5 fleet. In June 2014, Dassault claimed it was close to signing a contract with Qatar for 72 Rafales.{{cite news |author1=Fouquet, Helene |author2=Rothman, Andrea |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-06-19/dassault-said-to-close-in-on-rafale-jet-contract-to-lift-exports.html |title=Dassault Said to Close in on Rafale Contract to Lift Exports |publisher=Bloomberg L.P. |date=20 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006104933/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-06-19/dassault-said-to-close-in-on-rafale-jet-contract-to-lift-exports.html |archive-date=6 October 2014 |url-status=live}} On 30 April 2015, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani announced to French President François Hollande that Qatar would order 24 Rafale with an option to buy 12 more aircraft.{{cite news|last1=Irish |first1=John |first2=Cyril |last2=Altmeyer |url= https://www.reuters.com/article/france-qatar-rafale-idUSL5N0XR2QJ20150430|title=Update 3-France and Qatar seal $7 bln Rafale fighter jet deal|date=30 April 2015 |work=Reuters}} On 4 May, a €6.3 billion ($7.02 billion) contract for 24 Rafales was finalised; additionally, the contract included the provision of long-range cruise missiles and Meteor missiles as well as the training of 36 Qatari pilots and 100 technicians by the French military and several Qatari intelligence officers; thus, the price can be viewed as €{{#expr:6300/24round0}}M for each aircraft.{{cite press release|title=Qatar has chosen the Rafale |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/dassault-aviation/press/press-kits/qatar-has-chosen-the-rafale/ |publisher=Dassault Aviation|date=30 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150503004327/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/dassault-aviation/press/press-kits/qatar-has-chosen-the-rafale/ |archive-date=3 May 2015 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2015/05/qatar-agrees-buy-24-rafale-fighter-jets-france-150504100952250.html|title=Qatar agrees to buy 24 Rafale fighter jets from France|date=4 May 2015|publisher=Al Jazeera|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505003343/http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2015/05/qatar-agrees-buy-24-rafale-fighter-jets-france-150504100952250.html |archive-date=5 May 2015 |url-status=live}}

On 7 December 2017, the option for 12 more Rafales was exercised for €1.1 billion (or €{{#expr:1100/12round0}}M each) while adding an additional option for 36 further fighters.{{cite news|author1=Béziat, Eric|author2=Gallois, Dominique|author3=Pietralunga, Cédric |url=http://www.lemonde.fr/economie/article/2017/12/07/macron-au-qatar-plus-de-11-milliards-d-euros-de-contrats-en-guise-de-cadeau-de-bienvenue_5226053_3234.html|title=Métro, Rafale, A321... 11,1 milliards d'euros de contrats signés à l'arrivée de Macron au Qatar |publisher=Le Monde|date=7 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171207112325/http://www.lemonde.fr/economie/article/2017/12/07/macron-au-qatar-plus-de-11-milliards-d-euros-de-contrats-en-guise-de-cadeau-de-bienvenue_5226053_3234.html |archive-date=7 December 2017 |url-status=live}} The first Qatari Rafale was delivered in February 2019.{{cite web |last1=Binnie |first1=Jeremy |title=First Qatari Rafale delivered |url=https://www.janes.com/article/86194/first-qatari-rafale-delivered |website=Jane's 360 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20190206174132/https://www.janes.com/article/86194/first-qatari-rafale-delivered |archive-date=6 February 2019 |location=London |date=6 February 2019 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |last1=Perry |first1=Dominic |title=PICTURE: Qatar receives first of 36 Rafale fighters |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-qatar-receives-first-of-36-rafale-fighters-455567/ |website=FlightGlobal |archive-url=https://archive.today/20190206174235/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-qatar-receives-first-of-36-rafale-fighters-455567/ |archive-date=6 February 2019 |location=London |date=6 February 2019 |url-status=live}}

{{main|Indian MRCA competition|Rafale deal controversy}}

File:Indian Air Force Rafale.jpg, 6 February 2020]]

The Rafale was one of the six aircraft competing in the Indian MRCA competition for 126 multirole fighters. Originally, the Mirage 2000 had been considered for the competition, but Dassault withdrew it in favour of the Rafale.{{cite news |url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2006/03/mirage-2000s-withdrawn-as-indias-mrca-fighter-competition-changes/index.php|title=Mirage 2000s Withdrawn As India's MRCA Fighter Competition Changes|newspaper=Defense Industry Daily|date=8 March 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060311042844/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2006/03/mirage-2000s-withdrawn-as-indias-mrca-fighter-competition-changes/index.php |archive-date=11 March 2006}} In February 2011, French Rafales flew demonstrations in India, including air-to-air combat against Su-30MKIs.{{cite web |author=Prashanth, G. N. |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/French-Rafale-is-best-at-dogfight/articleshow/7478968.cms |title=French Rafale is best at dogfight |work=The Times of India |date=12 February 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130825081654/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-02-12/bangalore/28543581_1_su-30-aircraft-dogfight |archive-date=25 August 2013 |url-status=live}} In April 2011, the Indian Air Force (IAF) shortlisted the Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon for the US$10.4 billion contract.{{cite news|author=Chakravarty, Pratap |url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-world/india-shortlists-rafale-eurofighter-for-jet-deal-20110428-1dyzr.html|title=India Shortlists Rafale, Eurofighter for Jet Deal|newspaper=The Sydney Morning Herald|date=28 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110504141616/http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-world/india-shortlists-rafale-eurofighter-for-jet-deal-20110428-1dyzr.html |archive-date=4 May 2011 |url-status=dead}} On 31 January 2012, the IAF announced the Rafale as the preferred bidder.{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Dassault-Rafale-wins-MMRCA-deal-beating-Eurofighter-Typhoon/articleshow/11700801.cms|title=Dassault Rafale wins MMRCA deal beating Eurofighter Typhoon|newspaper=The Times of India|date=31 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120131175431/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Dassault-Rafale-wins-MMRCA-deal-beating-Eurofighter-Typhoon/articleshow/11700801.cms |archive-date=31 January 2012}}{{cite news |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-01-31/news/31010328_1_eurofighter-dassault-and-eads-iaf|title=Dassault Rafale bags $10.4 bn deal to supply 126 multi-role combat aircraft to IAF with an option to buy ~80 more jets|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=31 January 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130524185506/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-01-31/news/31010328_1_eurofighter-dassault-and-eads-iaf |archive-date=24 May 2013}} It was proposed that 18 Rafales would be supplied to the IAF by 2015 in fly-away condition, while the remaining 108 would be manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India under transfer of technology agreements.{{cite news |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/rafale-wins--104-bn-iaf-deal-to-supply-126-jets/225921-3.html|title=Rafale wins IAF's $10.4 billion deal to supply 126 jets|newspaper=IBN-Live|date=31 January 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120201230256/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/rafale-wins--104-bn-iaf-deal-to-supply-126-jets/225921-3.html |archive-date=1 February 2012}}{{cite news |url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/rafale-bags-iaf-s-usd-10-bn-mmrca-deal_755948.html|title=Rafale bags IAF's USD 10 bn MMRCA deal|newspaper=Zee News|date=31 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019095221/http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/rafale-bags-iaf-s-usd-10-bn-mmrca-deal_755948.html |archive-date=19 October 2013}} The contract for 126 Rafales, services, and parts may have been worth up to US$20 billion.{{cite news|first=David|last=Black |url=http://www.thenational.ae/business/industry-insights/aviation/plane-makers-in-a-battle-over-combat-aircraft-orders |title=Plane makers in a battle over combat aircraft orders|date=24 February 2012|work=The National|location=Abu Dhabi |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131019120811/http://www.thenational.ae/business/industry-insights/aviation/plane-makers-in-a-battle-over-combat-aircraft-orders |archive-date= 19 October 2013 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |first=Shyamantha|last=Asokan |url=http://in.reuters.com/article/india-defence-rafale-idINDEE99G0BP20131017|title=India to finalise Rafale deal by March: air force official|work=Reuters|place=India|date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017151750/http://in.reuters.com/article/2013/10/17/india-defence-rafale-idINDEE99G0BP20131017 |archive-date=17 October 2013}}

The deal stalled due to disagreements over local production; Dassault refused responsibility for the 108 HAL-manufactured Rafales, holding reservations over HAL's ability to accommodate the complex manufacturing and technology transfers; instead, Dassault said it would have to negotiate two separate production contracts by both companies. The Indian Defence Ministry instead wanted Dassault to be solely responsible for the sale and delivery of all 126 aircraft.{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130405/DEFREG03/304050009/Report-India-France-Rafale-Deal-Stalled3 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130628235157/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130405/DEFREG03/304050009/Report-India-France-Rafale-Deal-Stalled3 |url-status=dead |archive-date=28 June 2013|title=Report: India-France Rafale Deal Stalled|newspaper=Defense News|date=5 April 2013}}{{cite news|author1=Prusty, Nigam |author2=Kotoky, Anurag |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-rafale-deal-idUSBRE9340BE20130405|title=India's $15 billion Rafale deal faces delays: sources|work=Reuters|date=5 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130407231219/https://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/05/us-india-rafale-deal-idUSBRE9340BE20130405 |archive-date=7 April 2013}} In May 2013, The Times of India reported that negotiations were "back on track", with plans for the first 18 Rafales to be delivered in 2017.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/New-Sukhoi-base-to-cover-south-India/articleshow/20020893.cms|title=New Sukhoi base to cover south India|date=13 May 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130629134413/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-05-13/india/39227453_1_squadrons-mmrca-project-chabua |archive-date=29 June 2013|newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live}} In March 2014, the two sides reportedly agreed that the first 18 Rafales would be delivered to India in flying condition and that the remaining 108 would be 70 percent built by HAL.{{cite news |url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/a-big-step-in-india-s-rafale-jet-deal-with-france-490440 |title=A big step in India's Rafale jet deal with France |last1=Gokhale |first1=Nitin |date=3 March 2014 |website=NDTV |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140303185936/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/a-big-step-in-india-s-rafale-jet-deal-with-france-490440 |archive-date= 3 March 2014 |url-status=live}} By December 2014, India and France reportedly expected to sign a contract by March 2015.{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20141201/DEFREG03/312010014/India-France-Agree-Finalize-Rafale-Deal-by-Spring |archive-url=https://archive.today/20141202031046/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20141201/DEFREG03/312010014/India-France-Agree-Finalize-Rafale-Deal-by-Spring |url-status=dead |archive-date=2 December 2014 |title=India, France Agree to Finalize Rafale Deal by Spring |work=Defense News |date=1 December 2014 |first1=Vvivek |last1=Raghuvanshi |first2=Pierre |last2=Tran}}

In April 2015, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Paris, India requested the swift delivery of 36 Rafales in a fly-away condition.{{cite press release |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/dassault-aviation/press/press-kits/india-to-announce-its-intention-to-acquire-36-rafale-aircraft-rapidly/ |title=India to announce its intention to acquire 36 Rafale aircraft rapidly |publisher=Dassault Aviation |date=10 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414003934/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/dassault-aviation/press/press-kits/india-to-announce-its-intention-to-acquire-36-rafale-aircraft-rapidly/ |archive-date=14 April 2015 |url-status=dead}}{{cite news |url=http://in.reuters.com/article/india-france-rafale-deal-idINKBN0N11SB20150410 |title=India to buy 36 French-made Rafale jets – PM Modi PARIS |work=Reuters|date=10 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150410220021/http://in.reuters.com/article/2015/04/10/india-france-rafale-deal-idINKBN0N11SB20150410 |archive-date=10 April 2015 |url-status=dead}} India withdrew the MMRCA tender on 30 July 2015.{{cite news |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/government-withdraws-tender-for-126-medium-multi-role-combat-aircraft-manohar-parrikar/articleshow/48282941.cms|title=Government withdraws tender for 126 medium multi role combat aircraft: Manohar Parrikar|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=30 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150802030300/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/government-withdraws-tender-for-126-medium-multi-role-combat-aircraft-manohar-parrikar/articleshow/48282941.cms |archive-date=2 August 2015 |url-status=live}} Then, India and France missed a July target to finalise the 36-aircraft deal. The previously agreed-upon terms in April totaled US$8 billion for 36 aircraft costing $200 million each, with an offset requirement of 30 percent of the deal's value to be reinvested in India's defence sector and infrastructure for Rafale operations. India insisted on a 50 percent offset and two bases, which France said would increase costs and require separate infrastructure and two sets of maintenance, training and armament storage facilities.{{cite news |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/rafale-deal-pricing-issues-indias-insistence-on-50-local-spending-lead-to-missing-of-july-target/articleshow/48288656.cms|title=Rafale deal: Pricing issues, India's insistence on 50% local spending lead to missing of July target|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=31 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150811092539/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/rafale-deal-pricing-issues-indias-insistence-on-50-local-spending-lead-to-missing-of-july-target/articleshow/48288656.cms |archive-date=11 August 2015 |url-status=live}} On 23 September 2016, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian signed a €7.8 billion contract for 36 fly-away Rafales with an option for 18 more.{{cite news |url=http://www.janes.com/article/64054/india-finally-signs-deal-with-france-for-36-rafale-fighters |title=India finally signs deal with France for 36 Rafale fighters |work=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |date=23 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160924160805/http://www.janes.com/article/64054/india-finally-signs-deal-with-france-for-36-rafale-fighters |archive-date=24 September 2016 |url-status=live}} Initial deliveries were expected by 2019, and all 36 within six years.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-37448631|title=India and France sign Rafale fighter jet deal|publisher=BBC News|date=23 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160923113802/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-37448631 |archive-date=23 September 2016 |url-status=live}} The deal included spares and weapons such as Meteor missiles.{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-france-conclude-rafale-deal/article9140011.ece |url-access=subscription |title=India, France conclude Rafale deal|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=23 September 2016|newspaper=The Hindu |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160923084205/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-france-conclude-rafale-deal/article9140011.ece |archive-date=23 September 2016 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-signs-rs-58-000-crore-deal-for-36-rafale-fighter-jets-with-france-1465495 |date=23 September 2016 |title=Rafale Deal For 36 Fighter Jets Finally Sealed After Long Wait: 10 Facts|work=NDTV|access-date=23 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160923191112/http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-signs-rs-58-000-crore-deal-for-36-rafale-fighter-jets-with-france-1465495 |archive-date=23 September 2016 |url-status=live}} Around August 2017, India considered ordering 36 more Rafales amid tensions with China.{{cite news |url= http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/iaf-pitches-for-36-more-rafale-fighters-after-it-gets-the-first-36-from-france/articleshow/60226329.cms|title= IAF pitches for 36 more Rafale fighters after it gets the first 36 from France|date= 26 August 2017|author= Rajat Pandit|journal= The Times of India |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170826041514/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/iaf-pitches-for-36-more-rafale-fighters-after-it-gets-the-first-36-from-france/articleshow/60226329.cms |archive-date= 26 August 2017 |url-status=live}}

The Indian National Congress raised an issue over Dassault partnering with Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence and Engineering, a private company with no aviation experience, instead of the state owned HAL. Allegedly, Dassault lacked any choice and was compelled to select Reliance Defence as its partner. Rahul Gandhi alleged that it was favouritism and corruption. Both the French government and Dassault issued a press release stating it was Dassault's decision to choose Reliance Defence.{{cite news |url=https://thewire.in/business/full-text-of-french-report-on-how-modi-govt-pushed-anil-ambani-as-partner-for-rafale-deal|title=Full Text: French Report on How Modi Govt Pushed Anil Ambani as Rafale Deal Partner|first1=Karl |last1=Laske |first2=Antton |last2=Rouget |publisher=The Wire|date=21 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190517055406/https://thewire.in/business/full-text-of-french-report-on-how-modi-govt-pushed-anil-ambani-as-partner-for-rafale-deal |archive-date=17 May 2019 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/rafale-row-alliance-with-reliance-defence-was-mandatory-to-clinch-the-deal-says-dassault-deputy-ceo/articleshow/66157632.cms |url-access=subscription |title=To get Rafale contract, Dassault had to choose Reliance Defence: French Media|work=The Economic Times|date=11 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413000859/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/rafale-row-alliance-with-reliance-defence-was-mandatory-to-clinch-the-deal-says-dassault-deputy-ceo/articleshow/66157632.cms |archive-date=13 April 2019 |url-status=live}} Party spokesperson Manish Tewari asked for the agreement's details to be made public and questioned if there was an escalation of per-aircraft cost from ₹7.15 billion to ₹16 billion.{{cite news |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/572223/cong-critical-rafale-deal-wants.html|website=Deccan Herald |title= Cong critical of Rafale deal, wants contract to be made public |agency=PTI |date=24 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190217071036/https://www.deccanherald.com/content/572223/cong-critical-rafale-deal-wants.html |archive-date=17 February 2019 |url-status=live}} In November 2018, Congress alleged that procurement procedures were bypassed. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) case was filed in the Supreme Court for an independent probe into the Rafale procurement. On 14 December 2018, the Apex Court dismissed all petitions, stating it found no irregularities; Reliance Defence reportedly was set to receive just over 3 per cent of the {{INRConvert|300|b|year=2018}} of offsets, contrary to the impression that it was to be the biggest beneficiary of the deal.{{cite news |url= https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/reliance-defence-to-get-3-of-rs-30000-crore-offset/articleshow/66228334.cms |title= Reliance Defence to get 3% of rs 30000 crore offset |newspaper= The Economic Times |publisher= Indiatimes |date= 16 October 2018|last1= Pubby |first1= Manu |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314191426/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/reliance-defence-to-get-3-of-rs-30000-crore-offset/articleshow/66228334.cms |archive-date= 14 March 2023}}{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/supreme-court-verdict-on-rafale-defence-deal-what-the-court-said/articleshow/67088303.cms |date=14 December 2018 |title=Supreme Court verdict on Rafale defence deal: What the court said|work=The Times of India |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214172251/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/supreme-court-verdict-on-rafale-defence-deal-what-the-court-said/articleshow/67088303.cms |archive-date=14 December 2018 |url-status=live}}

File:IAF Rafale aircraft touching down at Air Force Station Ambala on its arrival on 29 July 2020 (cropped).jpg on its first arrival in India on 29 July 2020.]]

Ahead of the first Rafale's formal handover on 8 October 2019 (IAF Day), the IAF accepted it at Dassault's Bordeaux facility in an event attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his French counterpart, Florence Parly; it had tail number "RB-001" in reference to IAF chief-designate Air Chief Marshal R. K. S. Bhadauria.{{cite news |url= https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/iaf-receives-first-rafale-combat-aircraft-in-france/articleshow/71223372.cms |title= IAF receives first Rafale combat aircraft in France |website= The Times of India|date= 20 September 2019}} The first five Rafales were delivered on 27 July 2020.{{cite web |date=2020-07-27 |title=Rafale jets reach Ambala today: What next after 7,000-km journey from France? |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/five-rafale-jets-leave-for-india-what-happens-next-6525806/ |access-date=2020-07-27 |website=The Indian Express}} The last Rafale arrived in April 2022.{{cite web |title=France hands over 3 Rafale fighter jets with India-specific enhancements to IAF |date=February 2022 |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/france-hands-over-3-rafale-fighter-jets-with-india-specific-enhancements-to-iaf-101643711222359.html |work=The Hindustan Times |access-date=2 February 2022}}

In June 2024, an IAF contingent attended the second edition Red Flag – Alaska 2024 exercise which was conducted from 4 June to 14 June in Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. This contingent consisted of Rafales, one Il-78MKI mid-air refueller and a C-17 heavy transport aircraft. The exercise focused on Beyond Visual Range combat simulations. Other participants in the exercise included Republic of Singapore Air Force, Royal Air Force, Royal Netherlands Air Force, Luftwaffe, and the US Air Force. The aggressor unit was 18th Fighter Interceptor Squadron. After the conclusion of the exercise, on the way back to India, the contingent made a refuelling halt at Lajes Field, Portugal. After the halt, the contingent was split into two components, with one visiting Greece and the other visiting Egypt.{{Cite web |date=2024-06-16 |title=IAF Contingent Completes Successful Participation in Exercise Red Flag 2024 |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2025644 |access-date=2024-06-28 |website=Press Information Bureau}}{{Cite news |date=2024-06-16 |title=IAF's Rafale aircraft participate in Red Flag exercise in Alaska |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/iafs-rafale-aircraft-participate-in-red-flag-exercise-in-alaska/articleshow/111039680.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-06-28 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}} The Rafales also participated in air combat exercises with Hellenic Air Force's F-16 and Egyptian Air Force's Rafales.{{Cite news |title=Indian Rafales fly over Great Pyramids in Egypt, soar over Greece |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/watch-indian-rafales-fly-over-great-pyramids-in-egypt/articleshow/111311405.cms |access-date=2024-06-28 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite web |date=2024-06-27 |title=WATCH: IAF Rafale Jets In Formation With Egyptian Aircraft Fly Over Great Pyramids |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/watch-iaf-rafale-jets-in-formation-with-egyptian-aircraft-fly-over-great-pyramids-article-111315546 |access-date=2024-06-28 |website=Times Now |language=en}} During 2024, IAF Rafales at Hasimara AFS under the aegis of Eastern Air Command had reportedly been trained to shoot air-to-air missiles at targets mimicking Chinese spy balloons at relatively high altitude of {{Convert|55000|ft|m|abbr=on}}; this occurred after the 2023 Chinese balloon incident.{{Cite news |date=2024-10-07 |title=IAF quietly shooting down 'Chinese spy balloons' at high altitudes |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/iaf-quietly-shooting-down-chinese-spy-balloons-at-high-altitudes/articleshow/113993660.cms |access-date=2024-10-08 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite web |date=2024-10-06 |title=Air Force demonstrates ability to shoot down Chinese spy balloon-type objects |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/chinese-spy-balloon-exercise-indian-air-force-rafale-jet-eastern-command-2612239-2024-10-06 |access-date=2024-10-08 |website=India Today |language=en}}

The IAF's Rafale fleet is to receive upgrades through the Indian Navy's Rafale Marine deal. For this, 10 of the 36 IAF Rafales will be upgraded to allow buddy-buddy refuelling enhancing their operational range. Other improvements include ground-based support equipment, software upgrades, advanced weapon systems and sensor suites as well as 40 long-range drop tanks.{{Cite news |date=2025-02-18 |title=Navy's Rs 60,000 crore Rafale-M jet deal to help upgrade capabilities of IAF Rafales |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/navys-rs-60000-crore-rafale-m-jet-deal-to-help-upgrade-capabilities-of-iaf-rafales20250218192930 |access-date=2025-02-19 |work=ANI}}{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2024-12-02 |title=Navy Chief Dinesh Kumar Tripathi: Deals for Rafale-M jets, three additional Scorpene submarines in advanced stages |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/deals-for-rafale-m-jets-three-additional-scorpene-submarines-in-advanced-stages-navy-chief/article68937239.ece |access-date=2024-12-02 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

{{Main article|2025 India–Pakistan conflict}}

On the intervening night of 6–7 May 2025, the IAF reportedly deployed Rafales armed with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer glide bombs during Operation Sindoor to strike nine targets within Pakistan, which India alleged to be terrorist camps.{{Cite web |title=Indian Airstrikes in Pakistan: May 7, 2025 |url=https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2025/05/indian-airstrikes-in-pakistan-may-7-2025?lang=en |access-date=2025-05-12 |website=Carnegie Endowment for International Peace |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2025-05-07 |title=Rafale jets hit Pak terror camps with Scalp missiles, Hammer bombs: Sources |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/rafale-jets-pak-terror-camps-operation-sindoor-pahalgam-attack-retaliation-2720674-2025-05-07 |access-date=2025-05-07 |website=India Today |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Sheenu |date=2025-05-07 |title=Rafale jets hit nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoK with Scalp missiles and Hammer bombs |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/rafale-jets-hit-nine-terror-camps-in-pakistan-with-scalp-missiles-hammer-bombs-sources-operation-sindoor-india-pak-war-pahalgam-attack-kashmir-2025-05-07-989011 |access-date=2025-05-07 |website=India TV News |language=en}} According to Pakistani authorities, five Indian aircraft were shot down during the operation, including three Rafales.{{Cite news |last=Sampson |first=Eve |date=2025-05-07 |title=The Indian Aircraft Pakistan Says It Shot Down |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/07/world/asia/india-pakistan-downed-aircraft.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250516111917/https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/07/world/asia/india-pakistan-downed-aircraft.html |archive-date=2025-05-16 |access-date=2025-05-08 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} Concurrently, CNN reported the loss of one Rafale cited with claims of an unnamed high ranking French intelligence official,{{Cite web |last=Radford |first=Rhea Mogul, Sophia Saifi, Aishwarya S. Iyer, Aditi Sangal, Elise Hammond, Tori B. Powell, Jessie Yeung, Lex Harvey, Antoinette |date=2025-05-06 |title=May 7, 2025 India launches attacks on Pakistan after Kashmir massacre |url=https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/india-pakistan-attack-kashmir-tourists-intl-hnk#cmadq2i4j00003b6tu7krhsys |access-date=2025-05-11 |website=CNN |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2025-05-14 |title=Indonesia's bet on French Rafale jets under scrutiny after India-Pakistan clash |url=https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3310309/indonesias-costly-bet-french-rafale-jets-under-scrutiny-after-india-pakistan-aerial-clash |access-date=2025-05-18 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en}} while Reuters separately reported that Pakistani J-10 fighters were believed to have shot down at least two Indian aircraft, including a Rafale, citing claims from two unnamed U.S. officials.{{Cite news |last1=Shah |first1=Saeed |last2=Ali |first2=Idrees |date=9 May 2025 |title=Exclusive: Pakistan's Chinese-made jet brought down two Indian fighter aircraft, US officials say |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/pakistans-chinese-made-jet-brought-down-two-indian-fighter-aircraft-us-officials-2025-05-08/ |work=Reuters}} Pakistan itself implied using J-10C fighters in the combat, as well as the use of PL-15 long-range air-to-air missiles.{{Cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-08/pakistan-hails-role-of-chinese-jets-in-repelling-india-strikes |title=Pakistan Says It Used Chinese Jets to Respond to India's Operation Sindoor |website= Bloomberg |date=8 May 2025 |language=en|first1=Faseeh |last1=Mangi |first2=Josh |last2=Xiao }}{{Cite news |date=8 May 2025 |title='Not familiar': Beijing's response to Pakistan's claim of using China-made J-10C fighter jets against India's air defence |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/not-familiar-beijings-response-to-pakistans-claim-of-using-china-made-j-10c-fighter-jets-against-indias-air-defence-475313-2025-05-08 |accessdate=15 May 2025 |agency=Business Today}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3310004/how-did-chinas-j-10c-match-french-rafale-india-pakistan-aerial-clash|title=Explainer {{!}} How did China's J-10C match up to French Rafale in India-Pakistan aerial clash? {{!}} South China Morning Post|website=South China Morning Post|date=12 May 2025 |language=en|first=Liu |last=Zhen }}{{Cite news |last=Lateef |first=Samaan |date=13 May 2025 |title=India confirms Chinese missiles used by Pakistan in strikes |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/05/13/india-says-chinese-missiles-used-by-pakistan-in-strikes/ |access-date=21 May 2025 |work=The Daily Telegraph |language=en-GB |issn=0307-1235}} The Washington Post reported that the debris consistently matched with at least two French-made IAF aircraft — one of them being a Rafale. One verified image showed the wreckage of the vertical stabilizer of a Rafale; the National Interest said that, based on this evidence, at least one Rafale was indeed lost.{{Cite web |last=Filseth |first=Trevor |date=2025-05-13 |title=How Did India Lose a Rafale Jet Against Pakistan? |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/how-did-india-lose-a-rafale-jet-against-pakistan |access-date=2025-05-17 |website=The National Interest |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |last1=Piper |first1=Imogen |last2=Ley |first2=Jarrett |last3=Hill |first3=Evan |last4=Javaid |first4=Maham |last5=Noack |first5=Rick |last6=Masih |first6=Niha |last7=Hussain |first7=Shaiq |last8=Mehrotra |first8=Karishma |last9=Irfan |first9=Shams |date=2025-05-09 |title=At least two Indian jets appear to have crashed during Pakistan strikes, visuals show |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/05/09/fighter-jets-india-pakistan-attack/ |access-date=2025-05-17 |newspaper=The Washington Post |language=en-US |issn=0190-8286}} Additionally, BBC Verify, the broadcaster's investigative unit, reported that a Rafale had crashed in Indian territory. The unit authenticated three videos showing the wreckage of a Rafale in a field near Bathinda, Punjab. One video, geo-located by BBC Verify, showed Indian troops collecting debris from the crash site during daylight. Two additional clips from the same location, filmed at night, showed debris in a field and a projectile catching fire in the sky before igniting on the ground.{{Cite web |title=TRT Global - BBC verifies India jet crash as Pakistan dominates dogfight, shocking global military watchers |url=https://trt.global/world/article/77ca5fc9b207 |access-date=2025-05-17 |website=trt.global |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=India and Pakistan blame each other for escalating military tensions |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/live/cwyneele13qt?post=asset:0da4237b-3fe0-452c-b2a8-6a8a376ff68a#post |access-date=2025-05-17 |website=BBC News |language=en-GB}} According to French deputy Marc Chavent, several sources - including American analysts and NATO intelligence data - credited the J-10C with destroying a Rafale.{{Cite journal |last=Chauvent |first=Marc |date=20 May 2025 |title=Rafale, SPECTRA et LPI : quel avenir pour la supériorité aérienne française ? |url=https://www.assemblee-nationale.fr/dyn/17/questions/QANR5L17QE6745 |journal=Journal Officiel |publisher=Assemblée nationale |volume=17e Législature |pages=3516}}

On 9 May, the Pakistan Air Force reiterated its earlier downing claims of five Indian fighters, including Rafales, backed by crash locations, how the interception of combat formations was conducted, Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) transcript of the formation leader purportedly expressing concern over losing contact with a fellow pilot, and flight data.{{cite web |last1= |first1= |title=Tri Services Joint Press Conference - 9 May 2025 {{!}} ISPR |url=https://youtube.com/watch?v=ax0FBm8jazs |website=youtube.com |publisher=ISPR Official |language=en |format=video |date=9 May 2025}}{{Cite web |last=Yousaf |first=Kamran |date=10 May 2025 |title=India goes ballistic, hits own people |url=https://tribune.com.pk/story/2545048/india-goes-ballistic-hits-own-people |access-date=12 May 2025 |website=The Express Tribune |language=en}}{{Cite web|url=https://en.defence-ua.com/events/pakistan_shows_evidence_of_indian_su_30mki_and_rafale_takedown_in_dogfight-14463.html|title=Pakistan Shows Evidence of Indian Su-30MKI and Rafale Takedown in Dogfight {{!}} Defense Express|website=Defense Express |date=10 May 2025 |first= |last= }} On 31 May 2025, India's Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan admitted that India lost jets, but dismissed Pakistan's claim of downing six fighters.{{Cite web |date=2025-05-31 |title=India finally admits it lost fighter jets in clash with Pakistan |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/india-pakistan-war-rafale-fighter-jet-downed-b2761216.html |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=The Independent |language=en}}{{Cite web |last1=Sen |first1=Sudhi Ranjan |last2=Tandon |first2=Naman |date=31 May 2025 |title=India Confirms It Lost Fighter Jets in Recent Pakistan Conflict |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-31/india-confirms-it-lost-fighter-jets-in-recent-pakistan-conflict?embedded-checkout=true |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250601054134/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-31/india-confirms-it-lost-fighter-jets-in-recent-pakistan-conflict |archive-date=1 June 2025 |access-date=6 June 2025 |website=Bloomberg}} According to Chauhan, these losses resulted in corrections in India's tactics in the following strikes of 7, 8 and 10 May.{{Cite news |last1=Gopalakrishnan |first1=Raju |last2=Kok |first2=Xinghui |last3=Kok |first3=Xinghui |date=2025-05-31 |title=India says changed tactics worked well in conflict with Pakistan |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/india-says-changed-tactics-worked-well-conflict-with-pakistan-2025-05-31/ |work=Reuters |language=en}}{{Cite news |last= |date=2025-05-31 |title=Operation Sindoor: CDS Anil Chauhan says India suffered initial losses in the air, declines to give details |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/operation-sindoor-cds-anil-chauhan-says-india-suffered-initial-losses-in-the-air-declines-to-give-details/article69641180.ece |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}} On 15 June, Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, publicly refuted Pakistan’s previous claim that its air force had shot down IAF Rafales during Operation Sindoor, calling the assertion "inaccurate" in the company’s first official response to the incident.{{Cite news |title=Pak's claim of Rafale jets loss during Op Sindoor inaccurate, says Dassault chief|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pakistan-claim-rafale-jets-loss-during-op-sindoor-inaccurate-says-dassault-chief-eric-trappier-2740913-2025-06-15 |access-date=2025-06-15 |work=India Today |language=en-IN}}{{Cite news |title=Pakistan's claim on 3 Rafales shot down 'inaccurate', better than F-35 & Chinese fighters—Dassault CEO|url=https://theprint.in/defence/pakistans-claim-on-3-rafales-shot-down-inaccurate-better-than-f-35-chinese-fighters-dassault-ceo/2658419/|access-date=2025-06-15 |work=The Print|language=en-IN}}

Following India’s airstrikes against Pakistan, French officials cited by the Associated Press on condition of anonymity alleged that China had engaged in a coordinated effort to undermine the international sales of Rafale fighter jets. French military officials stated that they have not found sufficient evidence to directly link online posts criticizing the performance of Rafale jets to the Chinese government, however, French intelligence services reported that Chinese embassy defence attachés conveyed same narratives during meetings with security and defence officials from other countries, including claims that Indian Rafale jets had not performed well and also promoted Chinese-made weaponry. Commenting on the incident to Associated Press, China’s Ministry of National Defence dismissed the claims stating that China maintains a prudent and responsible approach to military exports.{{Cite web |date=2025-07-06 |title=French intelligence: China used embassies to undermine sales of France's flagship Rafale fighter jet |url=https://apnews.com/article/france-china-pakistan-india-defense-rafale-64eec86b6e89718d6a49d8fdedf565f4 |access-date=2025-07-07 |website=AP News |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=French intelligence claims China trying to foil global sale of Rafale jets |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/7/6/french-intelligence-claims-china-trying-to-foil-global-sale-of-rafale-jets |access-date=2025-07-07 |website=Al Jazeera |language=en}} According to French Air Force Chief General Jérôme Bellanger, he had seen evidence that confirms the loss of a Rafale aircraft during the conflict.{{Cite web |date=2025-07-06 |title=French intelligence claims China trying to foil global sale of Rafale jets |url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/french-intelligence-claims-china-trying-114430308.html |access-date=2025-07-07 |website=Yahoo News |language=en-US}}

On 7 July, Indian Defence Secretary RK Singh while speaking to CNBC TV18 dismissed claims that India’s Rafale fighter jets were shot down by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, terming them “inaccurate”. He also emphasised that the Indian armed forces had complete operational autonomy during the conflict.{{Cite web |title=Dassault Aviation share price jumps after India's rebuttal on losing Rafale jets during Operation Sindoor|url=https://www.livemint.com/market/stock-market-news/dassault-aviation-share-price-jumps-after-indias-rebuttal-on-losing-rafale-jets-during-operation-sindoor-11751876971577.html|access-date=2025-07-07|website=livemint.com|language=en}}

On 7 July, Éric Trappier claimed in a report by the French website Avion De Chasse that one Indian Rafale may have been lost during a high-altitude training mission due to technical failure, and his evidence was that the aircraft’s SPECTRA system had detected no signs of hostile engagement. The publication also noted that Dassault’s communication strategy aimed to counter negative perceptions and maintain confidence in the Rafale platform by emphasizing technical performance and suggesting that the absence of hostile parties or missile being detected by SPECTRA, supported a conclusion that the loss was not combat-related. However, this narrative have not been independently verified, and the incident remains under investigation.{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2025-06-25 |title=Sindoor: Eric Trappier réfute les pertes de Rafale lors d’un combat |url=https://www.avion-chasse.fr/sindoor-eric-trappier-refute-les-pertes-de-rafale-lors-dun-combat/ |access-date=2025-07-08 |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |title=‘No Rafale shot down in combat, India lost one to technical malfunction, probe on’: Dassault CEO|url=https://theprint.in/defence/no-rafale-shot-down-in-combat-india-lost-one-to-technical-malfunction-probe-on-dassault-ceo/2682617/?amp|access-date=2025-07-07|website= The Print|language=en}}

According to an Indian media outlet, Economic Times, they insisted a new revelation has come out where the Indian Air Force's Rafale fighter jets, were equipped AI-powered X-Guard towed decoy system. Former U.S. Air Force pilot Ryan Bodenheimer described it as "the best spoofing and deception we’ve ever seen," noting it may have "redefined the rules of electronic warfare." According to Business Today, citing Jane’s Defence Weekly, some Pakistani claims of downing Rafales may have been hits on these decoys rather than the actual aircraft.{{Cite news |date=2025-07-08 |title='Best deception ever seen': US F-16 pilot reveals how a 30 kg device fooled Pakistan into thinking it downed a Rafale |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/best-deception-ever-seen-us-f-16-pilot-reveals-how-a-30-kg-device-fooled-pakistan-into-thinking-it-downed-a-rafale/articleshow/122313728.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2025-07-09 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}

In June 2012, Flight Global reported that the Indian Navy was considering the purchase of Rafale Ms for {{INS|Vikrant|2022|6}}.{{cite news |date=12 June 2012 |title=Indian aircraft carrier enters sea trials as navy eyes Rafale |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/indian-aircraft-carrier-enters-sea-trials-as-navy-eyes-rafale-372925/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623224451/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/indian-aircraft-carrier-enters-sea-trials-as-navy-eyes-rafale-372925/ |archive-date=23 June 2012 |access-date=1 August 2012 |newspaper=Flight magazine}} Subsequently, Rafale also won the IAF's MMRCA competition.{{Cite news |last=Deepalakshimi |first=K. |date=2016-04-16 |title=All you need to know about the Rafale deal |url=https://www.thehindu.com/specials/in-depth/All-you-need-to-know-about-Rafale-deal/article60529965.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203164057/https://www.thehindu.com/specials/in-depth/All-you-need-to-know-about-Rafale-deal/article60529965.ece |archive-date=3 February 2023 |access-date=2023-02-03 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}} In January 2016, the Indian government directed the Indian Navy to be briefed by Dassault on the Rafale M for its aircraft carriers, promoting logistics and spares commonalities between the Navy and IAF.{{cite web |last=Raghuvanshi |first=Vivek |date=19 January 2016 |title=India To Evaluate Rafale for Navy |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/strike/2016/01/19/india-evaluate-rafale-navy/79013702/ |work=Defense News}} In December 2016, the Indian Navy rejected the naval variant of the HAL Tejas due to it lacking enough thrust-to-weight ratio with full fuel and weapons load being overweight making it incapable of operating optimally from aircraft carriers. Hence, the Navy was expecting to import fighters from abroad to fulfil its requirements within six years. By this point, it had inducted 30 of the 45 MiG-29K that had been ordered while the expected procurement of 50 Tejas Naval aircraft stood cancelled.{{Cite news |date=2016-12-02 |title=Navy rejects Tejas, says 'overweight' fighter does not meet its requirements |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/navy-rejects-tejas-says-overweight-fighter-does-not-meet-its-requirements/articleshow/55756350.cms |access-date=2025-04-29 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{cite web |last=Bedi |first=Rahul |date=5 December 2016 |title=Indian Navy rejects naval version of Tejas LCA, seeks alternative – IHS Jane's 360 |url=http://www.janes.com/article/65993/indian-navy-rejects-naval-version-of-tejas-lca-seeks-alternative |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220075020/http://www.janes.com/article/65993/indian-navy-rejects-naval-version-of-tejas-lca-seeks-alternative |archive-date=20 December 2016 |access-date=27 January 2017 |work=janes.com}}

On 17 January 2017, the Indian Navy released a Request for Information to procure 57 fighters under the Multi-Role Carrier Borne Fighter (MRCBF) programme to form the fighter wing of {{INS|Vikrant|2013|6}}. The requirements included day-night and all-weather operation capability, shipborne air defence, air-to-surface, buddy-buddy aerial refuelling, reconnaissance, electronic warfare among others. Deliveries would span between three to six months of the contract's signing.{{Cite news |last=Jennings |first=Gareth |date=26 January 2017 |title=India seeks new naval fighter to replace rejected Tejas LCA |url=http://www.janes.com/article/67252/india-seeks-new-naval-fighter-to-replace-rejected-tejas-lca |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170224131630/http://www.janes.com/article/67252/india-seeks-new-naval-fighter-to-replace-rejected-tejas-lca |archive-date=24 February 2017 |access-date=23 February 2017 |work=IHS Jane's 360}}{{Cite web |last=Gady |first=Franz-Stefan |date=2017-01-27 |title=India Seeks 57 New Naval Fighter Jets for Carriers |url=https://thediplomat.com/2017/01/india-seeks-57-new-naval-fighter-jets-for-carriers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170607082512/http://thediplomat.com/2017/01/india-seeks-57-new-naval-fighter-jets-for-carriers |archive-date=2017-06-07 |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=thediplomat.com |language=en-US}} By June 2017, Dassault with their Rafale M,{{cite web |last=Tomkins |first=Richard |date=16 February 2017 |title=Dassault to offer Rafale fighter to Indian navy |url=https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2017/02/16/Dassault-to-offer-Rafale-fighter-to-Indian-navy/8741487258158/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170217074459/https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2017/02/16/Dassault-to-offer-Rafale-fighter-to-Indian-navy/8741487258158/ |archive-date=17 February 2017 |access-date=7 May 2023 |work=United Press International}} Boeing with F/A-18E/F, Saab with the Gripen Maritime and UAC with MiG-29K had formally responded to the RFI.{{Cite web |last=Livefist |first=Team |date=2017-06-01 |title=Four Fighters Throw Hat Into Big Indian Navy Ring - Livefist |url=https://www.livefistdefence.com/four-fighters-throw-hat-into-big-indian-navy-ring/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=livefistdefence.com |language=en-US}} Talks with Dassault and Boeing began by 2018 while the Request for Proposal was expected that same year under a Strategic Partnership (SP) model. The Navy was finalising its specific Naval Air Staff Requirements (NASR).{{Cite web |last=Livefist |first=Team |date=2018-01-08 |title=NAVY DOGFIGHT BEGINS: India Opens Talks With Boeing & Dassault - Livefist |url=https://www.livefistdefence.com/navy-dogfight-begins-india-opens-talks-with-boeing-dassault/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=livefistdefence.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |date=2018-07-14 |title=RFP for 57 multi-role combat fighter jets likely by mid-2018: Indian Navy |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/rfp-for-57-multi-role-combat-fighter-jets-likely-by-mid-2018-indian-navy/articleshow/61884897.cms |access-date=2025-04-29 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}

By December 2020, the number of fighters for the MRCBF was reduced to 36 amid a proposal by India's DRDO and ADA to develop the HAL TEDBF indigenously. There were also plans to merge the MRCBF procurement with the IAF's MRFA.{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2020-12-06 |title=Indian Navy wants to join IAF in fighter jet shopping |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navy-looking-to-combine-fighter-procurement-with-iaf-tender-for-114-jets/article33264017.ece |access-date=2025-04-29 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web |date=2023-02-06 |title=WATCH {{!}} Naval Light Combat Aircraft operates from INS Vikrant for 1st time |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/naval-light-combat-aircraft-operates-from-ins-vikrant-for-1st-time-101675682185590.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230206152244/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/naval-light-combat-aircraft-operates-from-ins-vikrant-for-1st-time-101675682185590.html |archive-date=2023-02-06 |access-date=2023-02-06 |website=Hindustan Times}} That same month, Boeing Defense, Space & Security, in coordination with the United States Navy, demonstrated the F/A-18's capability to operate from a STOBAR carrier at Naval Air Station Patuxent River by conducting eight ski-jumps.{{cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2020-12-21 |title=F/A-18 operation on Indian carriers successfully demonstrated: Boeing |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/boeing-says-successful-demonstration-of-f-18s-landing-on-indian-navy-carriers/article33383680.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210310104851/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/boeing-says-successful-demonstration-of-f-18s-landing-on-indian-navy-carriers/article33383680.ece |archive-date=10 March 2021 |access-date=2021-04-29 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

On 6 January 2022, a 12-day demonstration of the Rafale M took place at the 283 metre-long shore-based test facility (SBTF) at {{INS|Hansa}}, Goa. The deal would be in the Government-to-Government (G2G) mode instead of buying directly from the manufacturers. The quantity was further reduced to 26.{{Cite web |last=P |first=Rajat |date=6 January 2022 |title=Demonstration of Rafale fighter for Navy begins at Goa, F/A-18 next in March |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/demonstration-of-rafale-fighter-begins-for-navy-at-goa-f/a-18-next-in-march/articleshow/88740199.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220106190746/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/demonstration-of-rafale-fighter-begins-for-navy-at-goa-f/a-18-next-in-march/articleshow/88740199.cms |archive-date=6 January 2022 |access-date=2022-01-06 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=2022-01-06 |title=Carrier-borne jet search begins with Rafale demo |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/carrier-borne-jet-search-begins-with-rafale-demo/articleshow/88719327.cms? |access-date=2025-04-29 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}{{Cite web |last=Gupta |first=Shishir |date=2022-01-01 |title=Navy to test Rafale-M jet for INS Vikrant |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-set-to-conduct-trials-of-rafale-fighter-s-naval-version-101640980226180.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220106080902/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-set-to-conduct-trials-of-rafale-fighter-s-naval-version-101640980226180.html |archive-date=6 January 2022 |access-date=2022-01-06 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}} Between 20 May{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2022-05-23 |title=2 American Super Hornets in India as Boeing looks to showcase fighters for Navy deal |url=https://theprint.in/defence/2-american-super-hornets-in-india-as-boeing-looks-to-showcase-fighters-for-navy-deal/967614/ |access-date=2025-04-30 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}} and 15 June 2022,{{cite web |last=Gupta |first=Shishir |date=30 May 2022 |title=India to buy 26 fighters for INS Vikrant on G-2-G basis |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-to-buy-26-fighters-for-ins-vikrant-on-g-2-g-basis-101653881468920.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220530034419/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-to-buy-26-fighters-for-ins-vikrant-on-g-2-g-basis-101653881468920.html |archive-date=30 May 2022 |access-date=30 May 2022 |publisher=Hindustan times}} two F/A-18E/F Block III completed "operational demonstration tests" in the same facility. Trials included multiple ski-jumps, roll-ins, fly-in-arrestments in various configurations including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and air-to-surface making the jet "compliant" with Indian Navy aircraft carriers.{{Cite web |title=Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet Successfully Completes Operational Demonstrations in India |url=https://www.boeing.co.in/news/2022/boeing-fa-18-super-hornet-successfully-completes-operational-demonstrations |access-date=2025-04-30 |website=www.boeing.co.in |language=en-IN}}{{cite web |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=21 December 2020 |title=Boeing announces Super Hornet demonstrated compatibility with Indian carriers - The Economic Times |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/boeing-announces-super-hornet-demonstrated-compatibility-with-indian-carriers/articleshow/79836191.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430131002/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/boeing-announces-super-hornet-demonstrated-compatibility-with-indian-carriers/articleshow/79836191.cms |archive-date=30 April 2021 |access-date=29 April 2021 |website=The Economic Times}} By 7 December 2022, the Indian Navy headquarters submitted a report to the ministry of defence in which the Rafale was allegedly the frontrunner after having met all criteria. The Navy HQ had performed detailed analysis of the trial report prepared by the officials who had undertaken the previous trials.{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2022-12-07 |title=France's Rafale jets are frontrunner in race for Indian Navy contract |url=https://theprint.in/defence/frances-rafale-jets-are-frontrunner-in-race-for-indian-navy-contract/1252690/ |access-date=2025-02-06 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=2022-12-08 |title=Rafale M fighter edges out F/A-18 Super Hornet in equipping INS Vikrant |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/rafale-m-fighter-edges-out-f-a-18-super-hornet-in-equipping-ins-vikrant-101670481331812.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250430041513/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/rafale-m-fighter-edges-out-f-a-18-super-hornet-in-equipping-ins-vikrant-101670481331812.html |archive-date=2025-04-30 |access-date=2025-04-30 |work=Press Information Bureau}}

On 13 July 2023, Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) of India granted the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of 26 Rafale M F4 for the Indian Navy along with three additional {{sclass|Kalvari|submarine|2||2015}}s.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-13 |title=DAC approves proposals for procurement of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft from France to boost Indian Navy's operational capabilities |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1939178 |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=Press Information Bureau}} Senior representatives from the Navy, Defense Acquisition Wing, along with Dassault and Thales, commenced negotiations on 30 May 2024.{{Cite news |date=2024-05-28 |title=India to start talks for 26 Rafale Marine jets: Here's all about the 'omnirole' naval fighter plane |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-to-start-talks-for-26-rafale-marine-jets-heres-all-about-the-omnirole-naval-fighter-plane/articleshow/110498671.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-05-28 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}{{Cite news |date=2024-05-28 |title=India, France to begin negotiations this week in mega Rs 50,000 crore 26 Rafale Marine jet deal |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-france-to-begin-negotiations-this-week-in-mega-rs-50000-crore-26-rafale-marine-jet-deal/articleshow/110493857.cms |access-date=2025-04-30 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}} By late June 2024, the base price of Rafale was decided to be same as that of the IAF.{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2024-06-27 |title=Base price of Rafale agreed upon, fighters for Navy to have India-specific enhancements |url=https://theprint.in/defence/base-price-of-rafale-agreed-upon-fighters-for-navy-to-have-india-specific-enhancements/2148834/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}} On 3 September 2024, the Defence Acquisition Council dropped the integration of Uttam AESA radar and other indigenous weapons like Astra missiles on the Rafale M due to high costs and an estimated delay of 8 years for design changes.{{Cite web |date=2024-09-04 |title=India nears deal for 26 Rafale Marine fighters |url=https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/india-nears-deal-for-26-rafale-marine-jets-for-ins-vikrant-aircraft-carrier |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |date=2024-09-30 |title=Prices slashed! India close to finalising deal for 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets for Indian Navy |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/prices-slashed-india-close-to-finalising-deal-for-26-rafale-marine-fighter-jets-for-indian-navy/articleshow/113803882.cms |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}} By 29 September 2024, Dassault submitted its final price offer for the 26 aircraft to the Navy.{{Cite web |last=Online {{!}} |first=E. T. |date=2024-09-30 |title=India-France Rafale Marine fighter jets deal on the cards; Paris slashes prices for 26 jets |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/france-submits-final-price-offer-for-26-rafale-marine-jet-deal-ahead-of-nsa-dovals-paris-visit/videoshow/113814236.cms?from=mdr |website=The Economic Times |language=en}} The squadron will be based at {{INS|Dega}}, Visakhapatnam and will form the Carrier Air Group of Vikrant.{{Cite news |title=Eastern Naval Command (ENC) plans to expand INS Dega in Visakhapatnam after Bhogapuram airport in Vizianagaram becomes operational |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/eastern-naval-command-enc-plans-to-expand-ins-dega-in-visakhapatnam-after-bhogapuram-airport-in-vizianagaram-becomes-operational/articleshow/115904259.cms |access-date=2024-12-03 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

The deal, worth over {{INRConvert|63000|c|lk=on|year=2024}}, included purchase of weapon systems like Meteor (air-to-air), Exocet (anti-ship) and SCALP (cruise missile) along with five-year performance-based logistics support and training programmes for crew training to operate and maintain the jets, associated ancillary equipment, simulator, spares and Indian Navy-specific design alterations. INS Vikrant will also be equipped for Rafale-M operations as part of the deal.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-04 |title=Navy set to finalise Rs 60,000 crore Rafale M deal: All about game-changing jets |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indian-navy-set-to-finalize-rs-60000-crore-rafale-m-deal-all-about-the-game-changing-jets-2644523-2024-12-04#amp_tf=From%20%251$s&aoh=17332941660113&referrer=https://www.google.com&share=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indian-navy-set-to-finalize-rs-60000-crore-rafale-m-deal-all-about-the-game-changing-jets-2644523-2024-12-04 |website=India Today |language=en}} Design alterations for Indian Navy jets over those of IAF include helmet mounted display, low band frequency jammers, improved radio altimeter and very high frequency range decoys as well as software changes for air to sea mode, electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) among others. By 3 February 2025, the price negotiations were completed.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-03 |title=Rafale-M, Scorpene deals likely to be fast-tracked during PM Modi's France visit |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pm-modi-upcoming-france-visit-rafale-m-scorpene-deals-fast-track-emmanuel-macron-2674272-2025-02-03 |access-date=2025-02-06 |website=India Today |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2025-02-13 |title=Rafale-M deal to be inked in couple of months, delivery to start after four years |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/rafale-m-deal-to-be-inked-in-couple-of-months-delivery-to-start-after-four-years/article69216330.ece |access-date=2025-02-16 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

The Cabinet Committee on Security cleared the deal on 9 April 2025. The IN-specific Rafale Ms will be showcased by Dassault within 18 months and all aircraft will be delivered within 37 to 65 months after the contract's signing.{{Cite news |date=2025-04-09 |title=India approves Rs 63,000 crore deal to acquire 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets from France |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-approves-rs-63000-crore-deal-to-acquire-26-rafale-marine-fighter-jets-from-france/articleshow/120120220.cms?from=mdr |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2024-12-05 |title=As India & France get ready to sign 7-bn Euro deal for Rafale Marine, 87 TEDBFs emerge in shadow |url=https://theprint.in/defence/as-india-france-get-ready-to-sign-7-bn-euro-deal-for-rafale-marine-87-tedbfs-emerge-in-shadow/2388615/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241205172012/https://theprint.in/defence/as-india-france-get-ready-to-sign-7-bn-euro-deal-for-rafale-marine-87-tedbfs-emerge-in-shadow/2388615/ |archive-date=2024-12-05 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}} The deal was signed on 28 April 2025, and comprised 22 single-seat carrier-compatible aircraft and four twin-seat aircraft that will be solely used from land bases.{{Cite news |date=2025-04-28 |title=India, France sign Rs 63,000 crore mega deal to buy 26 Rafale Marine aircraft |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-france-sign-rs-63000-mega-deal-to-buy-26-rafale-marine-aircraft/articleshow/120691233.cms |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite web |last=Menon |first=Adithya Krishna |date=2025-04-28 |title=India Orders 26 Rafale Marine carrier-based aircraft for $7.5 billion |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2025/04/india-orders-26-rafale-marine-carrier-based-aircraft-for-7-5-billion/ |website=Naval News |language=en-US}} The programme was officially launched on 19 June as an Indian defence delegation, led by Joint Secretary and Acquisition Manager (Maritime Systems) Dinesh Kumar, met with French defence officials, led by Lt Gen Gael Diaz De Tuesta, Director General of Armament, during the Paris Air Show.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-21 |title=Indian defence delegation meets French officials in Paris; Rafale marine programme formally launched |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indian-defence-delegation-meets-french-officials-in-paris-rafale-marine-programme-formally-launched/articleshow/121985025.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2025-06-21 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}

In August 2020, the government of Greece announced the acquisition of 18 Rafales.{{cite web |title=Greece and the Rafale |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/greece-and-the-rafale/ |website=Dassault Aviation, Press kits |date=12 September 2020}}{{cite web |last1=Waldron |first1=Greg |title=Greece orders 18 Rafale fighters |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/greece-orders-18-rafale-fighters/140150.article |website=Flightglobal |date=14 September 2020}} Initial reports stated that ten would be the new Rafale C variant in F3-R standard with eight older Rafale in F1 and F2 standard in use with the French Air and Space Force that would be given to Greece.{{cite web |url=https://aviationweek.com/aerospace/aircraft-propulsion/greece-purchase-rafales-reports-say|title=Greece To Purchase Rafales, Reports Say | Aviation Week Network|website=aviationweek.com}}

In January 2021, the Hellenic Parliament ratified the agreement with Dassault for the purchase of six new built and 12 used F3-R aircraft formerly used by the Armée de l'Air at a total cost of €2.4 billion, including armaments and ground support.{{cite web |url=https://www.hellenicparliament.gr/Nomothetiko-Ergo/Psifisthenta-Nomoschedia?law_id=b5342fec-22cd-4194-8313-acad01511171|title=Ψηφισθέντα Νομοσχέδια|website=hellenicparliament.gr}} The inter-governmental agreement was signed on 25 January 2021 by the Defense Ministers of Greece and France.{{cite web |last1=Kokkinidis |first1=Tasos |title=Greece, France Sign $2.8 Billion Rafale Jet Deal |date=25 January 2021 |url=https://greece.greekreporter.com/2021/01/25/greece-france-sign-2-8-billion-rafale-jet-deal/}} This was followed by an additional contract in March 2022 to buy the six additional Rafales, to be delivered from mid-2024.{{Cite news |date=2022-03-24 |title=Greece buys six more Rafale fighter jets, frigates from France|work=Reuters|url=https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/greece-buys-six-more-rafale-fighter-jets-frigates-france-2022-03-24/}} The first aircraft, a Rafale B two-seater, was delivered on 21 July 2021.{{cite web |author=Arnoud |title=Dassault Aviation Livre Le Premier Chasseur Omnirôle Rafale à La Grèce |language=French |website=avionslegendaires |date=21 July 2021 |url=https://www.avionslegendaires.net/2021/07/actu/dassault-aviation-livre-le-premier-chasseur-omnirole-rafale-a-la-grece/ |access-date=29 July 2021}} On 19 January 2022, the first six Rafales landed at Tanagra Air Base where a welcoming ceremony was held.{{cite web |last=Kokkinidis |first=Tasos |date=2022-01-19 |title=Greece Receives First Six of 24 Rafale Jets |url=https://greekreporter.com/2022/01/19/first-six-of-24-rafale-jets-land-greece/ |website=Greek Reporter}} The type officially entered service in September 2023.{{cite web |last=Lazos |first=Efthimios |date=2023-09-25 |title=Πολεμική Αεροπορία: Επιχειρησιακά τα Rafale, πραγματοποιήθηκε η Τελική Επιχειρησιακή Αξιολόγηση της 332 Μοίρας |url=https://defencereview.gr/polemiki-aeroporia-epicheirisiakata/#comment-393403 |website=Defencereview}} In 2024, it was reported that the Greek government was looking to buy 6 to 12 more Rafales (as well as another Frigate) on the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. They also wanted to negotiate postponing some payments on previous arms deals to 2028–2030, and negotiate the transfer of 24 Mirage 2000-R that they wanted to discard as partial payment.{{Cite news |last=Gençtürk |first=Ahmet |orig-date=30 May 2024 |date=1 June 2024 |title=Greece intends to buy more Rafale jets, frigate from France: Kathimerini newspaper |url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/greece-intends-to-buy-more-rafale-jets-frigate-from-france-kathimerini-newspaper/3235690 |access-date=13 July 2024 |work=Anadolu Anjansi |pages=1}}

File:MORH T. Brandt 4.jpg]]

The Republic of Croatia received a proposal for twelve used Rafales F3Rs in September 2020 as part of a bid to replace the Croatian Air Force's MiG-21s. The total package offered costs €1 billion (including weapon systems, spare parts, logistics and training), and competed with new F-16V Block 70, Israeli used F-16C/D Barak raised to ACE configuration, and Saab Gripen.{{cite web |url=https://www.jutarnji.hr/globus/politika/bitka-za-hrvatsko-nebo-analizirali-smo-ponude-za-avione-nema-dvojbe-koji-je-najmocniji-15020991 |title=Bitka za hrvatsko nebo: Analizirali smo ponude za avione, nema dvojbe koji je najmoćniji |last=Ivanjek |first=Jan |date=2020-09-24 |website= Jutarnji list}} On 28 May 2021, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković announced the purchase of twelve used Rafales F3-R C/B on order, ten single-seater C F3-R and two two-seater Rafale B F3Rs.{{cite web |url=https://vlada.gov.hr/news/plenkovic-with-a-multi-role-fighter-aircraft-croatia-is-gaining-a-powerful-strategic-deterrent-for-the-next-30-40-years/32215 |title=Plenković: with a multi-role fighter aircraft Croatia is gaining a powerful strategic deterrent for the next 30–40 years |last=Andrej |first=Plenkovic |date=28 May 2021 |publisher=Government of the Republic of Croatia |website=vlada.gov.hr}}{{cite web |url=https://www.morh.hr/vlada-usvojila-povijesnu-odluku-o-nabavi-visenamjenskog-borbenog-aviona/|title=Vlada usvojila povijesnu odluku o nabavi višenamjenskog borbenog aviona|date=28 May 2021|website=MORH}} The contract was signed on 25 November 2021.{{cite web |url=https://vijesti.hrt.hr/hrvatska/rafale-uskoro-zamjenjuje-migove-3570478 |title=Rafale uskoro zamjenjuje migove |website=HRT Vijesti|date=25 November 2021}}{{cite web |date=25 November 2021 |title=Croatia signs for used Rafales from France |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/croatia-signs-for-used-rafales-from-france/146594.article |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20241216011234/https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/croatia-signs-for-used-rafales-from-france/146594.article |archive-date=16 December 2024 |access-date=16 December 2024 |publisher=Flight Global}}

On 2 October 2023, Croatia received the first of twelve Rafales during a ceremony at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base.{{cite web |last1=McNeil |first1=Harry |date=3 October 2023 |title=Historic moment as Croatia receives its first Rafale fighter aircraft |url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/historic-moment-as-croatia-receives-its-first-rafale-fighter-aircraft/?cf-view |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20241216012933/https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/historic-moment-as-croatia-receives-its-first-rafale-fighter-aircraft/?cf-view |archive-date=16 December 2024 |access-date=6 October 2023 |website=Air Force Technology}}{{cite web |date=2 October 2023 |title=Croatia receives first Rafale fighter from France |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/croatia-receives-first-rafale-fighter-from-france |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240909202117/https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/croatia-receives-first-rafale-fighter-from-france |archive-date=9 September 2024 |access-date=16 December 2024 |website=Janes}} The 12th and final aircraft was delivered on 25 April 2025.{{Cite web |title=U Hrvatsku stigao zadnji, 12. Rafale. Objavljene snimke i fotografije |url=https://www.index.hr/vijesti/clanak/u-hrvatsku-stigao-zadnji-rafale-objavljene-fotografije/2664925.aspx |access-date=2025-04-25 |website=www.index.hr |language=hr}}

File:Dassault Rafale model in Indo Defence 2024.jpg]]

In January 2020, the Indonesian government expressed interest in buying up to 48 Rafales to modernise the Indonesian Air Force.{{cite web|last=Cabirol|first=Michel|date=2020-01-17|title=Et si l'Indonésie s'offrait des Rafale et des sous-marins Scorpène ?|url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/et-si-l-indonesie-s-offrait-des-rafale-et-des-sous-marins-scorpene-837339.htmlhttps://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/et-si-l-indonesie-s-offrait-des-rafale-et-des-sous-marins-scorpene-837339.html|access-date=2020-01-19|website=La Tribune}}{{cite web|last=Cabirol|first=Michel|date=2020-12-08|title=L'Indonésie souhaite monter à bord du Rafale|url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/l-indonesie-souhaite-monter-a-bord-du-rafale-dassault-aviation-864119.html|access-date=2020-12-03|website=La Tribune}} In February 2021, Indonesia's Minister of Defense Prabowo Subianto announced that the purchase of 36 units, as part of a large procurement programme including A330 tankers and complementary American products, was planned and that funds had been secured for its finalization.{{cite web|title=Indonesian MoD reveals aircraft procurement plans|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/indonesian-mod-reveals-aircraft-procurement-plans|website=Janes.com|date=22 February 2021}} On 7 June 2021, Indonesia signed a letter of intent to buy 36 Rafales and associated weapons and support.

On 20 January 2022, Prabowo Subianto confirmed, that Indonesia completed the negotiation of the contract pending activation of the formal agreement by France. On 10 February 2022, Dassault stated that Indonesia had officially signed an order for 42 Rafale F4{{Cite web |date=2023-03-09 |title=L'Indonésie se donne les moyens d'acquérir une nouvelle tranche de Rafale (18 avions de combat) |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/apres-les-six-premiers-l-indonesie-est-proche-d-acquerir-18-nouveaux-rafale-954562.html |access-date=2024-01-31 |website=La Tribune |language=fr}}{{Cite web |title=Indonesia To Receive First Rafale F3R Fighters In 2026 |url=https://gbp.com.sg/stories/indonesia-to-receive-first-rafale-f3r-fighters-in-2026/ |access-date=2024-01-31 |website=GBP}} consisting of 30 single-seat and 12 double-seat.{{cite web|date=2022-02-09|title=Des Rafale pour l'Indonésie|url=https://omnirole-rafale.com/des-rafale-pour-lindonesie/|access-date=2022-02-19|website=RAFALE : The omnirole fighter|language=fr-FR}}

The first tranche for six Rafales came into force in September 2022. On 10 August 2023, Dassault Aviation announced that a contract covering a second tranche of 18 Rafale fighters for Indonesia had come into force that day, bringing the total under contract to 24.{{Cite web |title=Indonesia orders next batch of 18 Rafale fighters {{!}} Shephard |url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/air-warfare/indonesia-orders-next-batch-of-18-rafale-fighters/ |access-date=2023-08-14 |website=shephardmedia.com}} On 8 January 2024, Dassault Aviation disclosed that the third, and final tranche of 18 Rafales came into force, bringing the total aircraft ordered to 42.{{Cite web |date=2024-01-09 |title=Entry into force of the final tranche of 18 Rafale for Indonesia – Press kits |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/entry-into-force-of-the-final-tranche-of-18-rafale-for-indonesia/ |access-date=2024-01-10 |website=Dassault Aviation, a major player to aeronautics}}

During the French President Emmanuel Macron visit to Indonesia on 28 May 2025, both countries signed a Letter of Intent on various military hardware, which includes undisclosed amounts of additional Rafales.{{cite web |url=https://www.thejakartapost.com/world/2025/05/29/macron-says-there-will-be-new-indonesia-orders-for-rafale-jet.html |title=Macron says there will be new Indonesia orders for Rafale jet |website=The Jakarta Post |date=29 May 2025 |access-date=3 June 2025 }} La Tribune reported that Indonesia would order "a dozen" of additional Rafales.{{cite web |first=Michel |last=Cabirol |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/l-indonesie-pourrait-s-offrir-12-rafale-supplementaires-1025996.html |title=L'Indonésie pourrait s'offrir 12 Rafale supplémentaires |website=La Tribune |date=27 May 2025 |access-date=3 June 2025 |language=FR |url-access=subscription}} The French media further reported on 4 July that Indonesia may order up to 24 additional Rafales.{{cite web |first=Michel |last=Cabirol |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/l-indonesie-pourrait-acquerir-jusqu-a-24-rafale-supplementaires-1028859.html |title=L'Indonésie pourrait acheter jusqu'à 24 Rafale supplémentaires |website=La Tribune |date=4 July 2025 |access-date=9 July 2025 |language=FR |url-access=subscription}}

The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, stated on 24 December 2021 that Serbia is interested in buying new Rafales to strengthen the Serbian Air Force and Air Defence.{{cite web |url=https://www.b92.net/eng/news/politics.php?yyyy=2021&mm=12&dd=24&nav_id=112617 |title=Vučić: There are no fears for Serbia; "Everyone lashes out on the small and the weak" – PoliticsEnglish – on |publisher=B92.net |date= 24 December 2021|access-date=2022-02-21}}{{Cite news |url=https://www.slobodnaevropa.org/a/vucic-srbija-rusija-kornet/31625101.html |title=Vučić: Srbija platila ruske rakete 'kornet' unapred i po pristojnoj ceni|newspaper=Radio Slobodna Evropa |date=24 December 2021}} La Tribune reported in April 2022 that Serbia and Dassault are negotiating for 12 Rafales.{{cite web |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/dassault-aviation-la-serbie-va-t-elle-monter-aussi-dans-le-rafale-912726.html |title=La Serbie va-t-elle monter aussi dans le Rafale ? |publisher=La Tribune |date= 2022-04-05}}

On 8 April 2024, President Vučić announced the country's intention to purchase 12 Rafales, stating that "concrete agreements regarding the purchase of Rafale jets" had been made with French President Emmanuel Macron. Contract negotiations were completed in August 2024.{{cite news |last1=Newdick |first1=Thomas |title=France's Rafale Is Set To Be Serbia's Next Fighter |url=https://www.twz.com/air/frances-rafale-is-set-to-be-serbias-next-fighter |work=The War Zone |date=9 April 2024 |access-date=10 April 2024}}

The contract for nine single-seater and three two-seater Rafales F3s is worth {{currency|2.7 billion|EUR|passthrough=yes}} ({{currency|3 billion|USD|passthrough=yes}}).{{cite news |last1=Ruitenberg |first1=Rudy |date=30 August 2024 |title=Serbia to buy 12 Rafale fighter jets in nod to European industry |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/08/30/serbia-to-buy-12-rafale-fighter-jets-in-nod-to-european-industry/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20241216013920/https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/08/30/serbia-to-buy-12-rafale-fighter-jets-in-nod-to-european-industry/ |archive-date=16 December 2024 |access-date=11 September 2024 |work=Defense News |language=en}}

In 2009, the United Arab Emirates Air Force was interested in an upgraded Rafale with more powerful engines and radar, and advanced air-to-air missiles.{{cite news |author=Gale, Ivan |url=http://www.thenational.ae/business/aviation/uae-wants-its-fighters-its-own-way|title=UAE wants its fighters its own way|newspaper=The National|location=Abu Dhabi|date=29 September 2009|access-date=5 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110429064822/http://www.thenational.ae/business/aviation/uae-wants-its-fighters-its-own-way |archive-date=29 April 2011}} In October 2011, Dassault was confident that a US$10 billion deal for up to 60 Rafales would be signed.{{cite web |last=Trimble |first=Stephen |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dubai-uae-stings-dassaults-39uncompetitive-and-unworkable39-rafale-365019/ |title=DUBAI: UAE stings Dassault's 'uncompetitive and unworkable' Rafale bid |date= 17 November 2011 |work=Flightglobal |access-date=10 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210045658/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dubai-uae-stings-dassaults-39uncompetitive-and-unworkable39-rafale-365019/ |archive-date=10 December 2014}} However, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Union Defence Force, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in November 2011 called the French offer "uncompetitive and unworkable";{{cite news|author=McGinley, Shane |url=http://www.arabianbusiness.com/uae-royal-blasts-dassault-over-fighter-jet-deal-430278.html|title=UAE royal blasts Dassault over fighter jet deal|work=Arabian Business|date=16 November 2011|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111119014741/http://www.arabianbusiness.com/uae-royal-blasts-dassault-over-fighter-jet-deal-430278.html |archive-date=19 November 2011}} In 2010, France allegedly asked the UAE to pay US$2.6 billion of the total cost of Rafale upgrades.{{cite web |url=http://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/uae-may-ditch-france-to-award-10bn-jet-deal-to-us-2010-09-23-1.294435|title=UAE may ditch France to award $10bn jet deal to US|work=Emirates 24/7|date=23 September 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131022052232/http://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/uae-may-ditch-france-to-award-10bn-jet-deal-to-us-2010-09-23-1.294435 |archive-date= 22 October 2013 |url-status=live}} Consequently, the UAE explored a purchase of the Eurofighter Typhoon{{cite news|author=Hoyle, Craig |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dubai-uae-issues-shock-eurofighter-typhoon-request-364701/|title=Dubai: UAE issues shock Eurofighter Typhoon request|work=Flightglobal|date=12 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111114162812/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dubai-uae-issues-shock-eurofighter-typhoon-request-364701/ |archive-date=14 November 2011}} or the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.{{cite news|author=Tran, Pierre |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20100913/DEFFEAT04/9130314/UAE-May-Ditch-Rafale |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120723212412/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20100913/DEFFEAT04/9130314/UAE-May-Ditch-Rafale |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 July 2012|title=UAE May Ditch Rafale|newspaper=Defense News|date=15 October 2010}} The newspaper La Tribune reported in February 2012, that the UAE was still considering the US$10-billion deal for 60 Rafales. Interoperability among the Gulf air forces had renewed Qatari and Kuwaiti interest in the Rafale.{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/france-emirates-rafale-idUSL5E8D26WQ20120202|title=French Rafale UAE deal back on-report|work=Reuters|date=2 February 2012|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120205093850/https://www.reuters.com/article/2012/02/02/france-emirates-rafale-idUSL5E8D26WQ20120202 |archive-date=5 February 2012 |url-status=live}} In January 2013, President Hollande stated that he would discuss the Rafale during an official visit to the UAE.{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130109/DEFREG01/301090008/France-8217-s-Hollande-Push-Rafale-Sale-UAE |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20130109153106/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130109/DEFREG01/301090008/France-8217-s-Hollande-Push-Rafale-Sale-UAE |url-status=dead |archive-date=9 January 2013|title=France's Hollande To Push for Rafale Sale in UAE|newspaper=Defense News|date=9 January 2013}} In December 2013, the UAE reportedly chose not to proceed with a deal for defence and security services, including the supply of Typhoons.{{cite news|last=Spence |first=Peter |url=http://www.cityam.com/blog/1387471898/uae-pulls-out-bae-typhoon-aircraft-deal |title=UAE pulls out of BAE Typhoon aircraft deal |newspaper=City A.M. |date=19 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220024154/http://www.cityam.com/blog/1387471898/uae-pulls-out-bae-typhoon-aircraft-deal |archive-date=20 December 2013}}

In September 2014, it was reported that the UAE could acquire 40 Rafales in addition to upgrading its existing Mirage 2000s.{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140901/DEFREG01/309010013/France-UAE-Close-Spy-Sat-Deal |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20140901151556/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140901/DEFREG01/309010013/France-UAE-Close-Spy-Sat-Deal |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 September 2014|title=France, UAE Close in on Spy Sat Deal|work=Defense News|date=1 September 2014|access-date=10 December 2014}} In November 2015, Reuters reported that Major General Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi, commander of the UAE Air Force and Air Defence, had confirmed that the UAE was in final negotiations to purchase 60 Rafales.{{cite news|last=Hepher|first=Tim |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-dubai-airshow-emirates-fighters-idUSKCN0T01AQ20151111|title=UAE in final stages of talks to buy Rafale jets|work=Reuters|date=11 November 2015|access-date=12 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151114064556/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/11/11/us-dubai-airshow-emirates-fighters-idUSKCN0T01AQ20151111 |archive-date=14 November 2015 |url-status=live}} In 2019 a series of Rafale F3-R trials were conducted at Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE.{{cite web |url=https://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/206079/rafale-f3_r-heads-to-uae-for-hot-weather-trials.html |title= Hot Weather Trials Campaign for the Rafale F3-R}} On 3 December 2021, Dassault announced that the UAE had signed an order for 80 Rafale F4 in a government-to-government deal,{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/frances-macron-nears-uae-rafale-fighter-jet-deal-2021-12-03/|title=Cementing ties, UAE buys 80 French-made Rafale warplanes|author=John Irish|work=Reuters|date=3 December 2021|access-date=3 December 2021}} which made the UAE the largest Rafale operator in the region and second to France.{{cite web |url=https://apnews.com/article/business-middle-east-france-elections-europe-43bbf5b78be83a1012f18c795b5ab96b|title=France signs weapons mega-deal with UAE as Macron tours Gulf|access-date=3 December 2021|work=Associated Press News|date=3 December 2021}} The deal makes the United Arab Emirates Air Force the first user of the Rafale F4 standard outside France.{{cite web|url=https://eurasiantimes.com/dassault-begins-process-to-deliver-rafale-fighters-to-uae/|title=Dassault Aviation Begins Process To Deliver The 'Most Advanced' Rafale Fighters To UAE; Anticipates 'Big Order' From India|work=The EurAsian Times|date=21 April 2021}}

In March 2020, La Tribune reported that France's Minister of the Armed Forces, Florence Parly, promoted the Rafale's performance to Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is also Minister of Defense.{{cite web|title=Florence Parly au Bangladesh pour vendre le Rafale |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/florence-parly-au-bangladesh-pour-vendre-le-rafale-841665.html|website=La Tribune|date=10 March 2020|language=fr}}{{Cite news |title=France, Italy eye Bangladesh market |url=https://www.newagebd.net/article/101697/france-italy-eye-bangladesh-market|access-date=2021-08-21|work=New Age}}

On 30 October 2024, the Brazilian media reported that France's President Emmanuel Macron during his trip to Rio de Janeiro to participate the 2024 G20 summit will offer to the Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva an package of armaments, including 24 Rafales to replace the older AMX as the Brazilian Air Force is in a selection process of a replacement for their preferred attack jet.{{Cite news |title=Macron oferecerá 24 caças Rafale a Lula no encontro do G20|trans-title=Macron to offer 24 Rafale fighter jets to Lula during the G20 meeting|url=https://www.aereo.jor.br/2024/10/31/macron-oferecera-24-cacas-rafale-a-lula-no-encontro-do-g20/|date=31 October 2024|work=Poder Aéreo|language=pt}}{{Cite news |title=França vai oferecer 24 caças Rafale ao Brasil, segundo jornalista |trans-title=France will offer 24 Rafale fighter jets to Brazil, according to journalist|url=https://www.airway.com.br/franca-vai-oferecer-24-cacas-rafale-ao-brasil-segundo-jornalista/|date=31 October 2024|work=Airway|language=pt}}{{Cite news |title=G20: França vai oferecer ao Brasil helicópteros H145M, caças Rafale, obus CAESAR e mais um Submarino? |trans-title=G20: Will France offer Brazil H145M helicopters, Rafale fighters, CAESAR howitzers and another submarine?|url=https://www.defesaaereanaval.com.br/geopolitica/g20-franca-vai-oferecer-ao-brasil-helicopteros-h145m-cacas-rafale-obus-caesar-e-mais-um-submarino|date=31 October 2024|work=Defesa Aérea e Naval|language=pt}}

In November 2020, Iraqi Defence Minister Jumaa Anad stated that Iraq plans to buy Rafales for the Iraqi Air Force.[https://www.thebaghdadpost.com/en/Story/50604/Iraq-Planning-to-Buy-Dassault-Rafale-Aircrafts-from-France "Iraq Planning to Buy Dassault Rafale {{sic|Ai|rcrafts|nolink=y}} from France"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121040920/https://www.thebaghdadpost.com/en/Story/50604/Iraq-Planning-to-Buy-Dassault-Rafale-Aircrafts-from-France |date=21 January 2021}}. The Bagdad Post, 11 November 2020 In February 2022, Iraq reportedly intends to acquire 14 Rafale F4s, payable in crude oil.[http://www.opex360.com/2022/02/12/lirak-envisage-de-se-procurer-14-avions-rafale-des-caesar-et-des-drones-aupres-de-la-france/ "L'Irak envisage de se procurer 14 avions Rafale, des CAESAr et des drones auprès de la France"]. Opex360.com, 12 February 2022 However, as of October 2024, it was still weighing its options with reports that France will not be selling the Meteor AAM to Iraq if an order was placed.{{Cite web |last=Iddon |first=Paul |title=Iraq's Rafales Won't Realize Full Potential As Air Supremacy Fighters |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/pauliddon/2024/10/21/iraqs-rafales-wont-realize-full-potential-as-air-supremacy-fighters/ |access-date=2025-04-28 |website=Forbes |language=en}}

The Rafale was a contender for the replacement of the Royal Malaysian Air Force's (RMAF) Mikoyan MiG-29s, with a requirement to equip three squadrons with 36 to 40 fighters with an estimated budget of RM6 billion to RM8 billion (US$1.84 billion to US$2.46 billion). Other competitors were the Eurofighter Typhoon, Boeing F/A-18/F Super Hornet and Saab JAS 39 Gripen.{{cite web |url=https://www.defenseworld.net/news/12435/Dassault_Increases_Rafale_Pitch_For_Malaysia_At_LIMA_2015#.VUNfPSGqrBF |title=Dassault Increases Rafale Pitch For Malaysia At LIMA 2015 |date=17 March 2015 |work=Defenseworld.net |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150427210645/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/12435/Dassault_Increases_Rafale_Pitch_For_Malaysia_At_LIMA_2015#.VUNfPSGqrBF |archive-date=27 April 2015 |url-status=live}} In July 2017, acquisition efforts were suspended with the RMAF looking instead to buy new maritime patrol aircraft and advanced trainers with light attack capabilities to confront the growing threat of Islamist militants in the Southeast Asian region.{{cite news |last=Sipalan |first=Joseph |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-malaysia-defence-exclusive-idUSKBN19Y17X |title=Exclusive: Malaysia shelves plan to buy new fighter jets – defense source |work=Reuters |accessdate=26 April 2023}}

In July 2024, it was reported that Peru as part of a revitalization program for the combat sections of the Peruvian Air Force (FAP) was considering the Rafale as one of the contenders for a recently launched contract for fighters.{{Cite web |last=Mejia |first=Lewis |date=6 February 2024 |title=The Peruvian Air Force seeks to advance in the recovery and repowering of its combat aircraft |url=https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2024/02/06/the-peruvian-air-force-seeks-to-advance-in-the-recovery-and-repowering-of-its-combat-aircraft/ |access-date=13 July 2024 |website= zona-militar.com}} General Carlos Enrique Chávez Cateriano, the commanding general of the FAP, announced on 8 July 2024 that a competition had been launched and the Rafale was one of two leading contenders, with the other leading contender being the KAI KF-21 Boramae.{{Cite web |last=Wolf |first=Fabrice |date=July 10, 2024 |title=The Dassault Rafale favorite to modernize the Peruvian air forces with the KF-21 Boramae |url=https://meta-defense.fr/en/2024/07/10/dassault-rafale-kf-21-favoris-perou/ |access-date=13 July 2024 |website=meta-defense.fr}} The FAP is operating Mirage 2000P Fighters and Mirage 2000DP trainers as of 2024.{{citation needed|date=July 2024}}

In February 2022, La Tribune reported that Saudi Arabia is interested in the Rafale,{{cite web|title=Rafale à l'export : et maintenant ? |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/rafale-a-l-export-et-maintenant-904558.html|access-date=2022-02-22|website=La Tribune|date=2022-02-22|language=fr}} then reported in December 2022 that Saudi Arabia would need between 100 and 200 fighters.{{cite web |title=Rafale, SCAF : les tentations embryonnaires de l'Arabie Saoudite |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/rafale-scaf-les-tentations-embryonnaires-de-l-arabie-saoudite-942032.html |access-date=2022-02-22 |website=La Tribune |date=2022-12-05 |language=fr}} In October 2023, Saudi Arabian authorities officially asked the French company Dassault Aviation to send a quote and a proposed delivery schedule for 54 Rafale F4 combat aircraft.{{cite web | url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/l-arabie-saoudite-prete-a-commander-54-rafale-a-dassault-aviation-981123.html | title=L'Arabie saoudite prête à commander 54 Rafale à Dassault Aviation | date=22 October 2023}}

On 26 November 2023, French President Emmanuel Macron offered Rafale to both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan governments, according to La Tribune.{{Cite web |last=Bisaccio |first=Derek |date=2023-11-27 |title=France Pitches Rafale to Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan |url=https://dsm.forecastinternational.com/2023/11/27/france-pitches-rafale-to-uzbekistan-kazakhstan/ |access-date=2024-03-23 |website=Defense Security Monitor}} Scramble reported that Uzbekistan is interested in buying 24 Rafales, citing the source in France government.{{Cite web |last=Herk |first=Hans van |date=2023-11-25 |title=Next in line for Rafales: Uzbekistan? |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/next-in-line-for-rafales-uzbekistan |access-date=2024-03-23 |website=scramble.nl}}

The Rafale has been marketed for export to various countries. Various commentators and industry sources have highlighted the high cost of the aircraft as detrimental to the Rafale's sales prospects. Its acquisition cost is roughly US$100 million (2010),{{cite news |first=Lionel|last=Laurent |url=https://fr.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE60B3IK20100112 |title=Dassault under pressure to cut Rafale fighter price |location=France |work=Reuters|date=12 January 2010 |access-date=20 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140201195758/http://fr.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE60B3IK20100112 |archive-date= 1 February 2014 |url-status=dead}} while its operational cost hovers around US$16,500 (2012) for every flight-hour.{{cite web |title=Gripen operational cost lowest of all western fighters: Jane's |url=http://www.stratpost.com/gripen-operational-cost-lowest-of-all-western-fighters-janes|work=Strat Post |date=3 July 2012|access-date=20 January 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140216090306/http://www.stratpost.com/gripen-operational-cost-lowest-of-all-western-fighters-janes |archive-date= 16 February 2014 |url-status=live}} The Saab JAS 39 Gripen, in comparison, costs only US$4,700 per flight-hour to operate. According to a 2009 article by the Institute for Defense Studies and Analysis, unlike the American government and its relationship with Boeing and Lockheed Martin, the lack of communication between the French government and Dassault has hampered a worldwide cooperative sales effort, as demonstrated by the case with Morocco in 2007.{{cite web |first=Guillem |last=Monsonis |url=http://www.idsa.in/idsastrategiccomments/RafalethedoomedFrenchbird_GMonsonis_140509 |title=Rafale: the doomed French bird |work=Institute for Defense Studies and Analysis |date=14 May 2009 |access-date=20 January 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140201162158/http://www.idsa.in/idsastrategiccomments/RafalethedoomedFrenchbird_GMonsonis_140509 |archive-date= 1 February 2014 |url-status=live}}

{{main|Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II procurement#Belgium}}

In 2009, Belgium suggested that they may buy F-35s in the 2020s to replace Belgium's 34 F-16A/B MLU fleet.{{cite web |last=Trimble |first=Stephen |title=Leaked cable spills Belgium's plans to buy F-35s |date=12 September 2011 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/leaked-cable-spills-belgiums-plans-to-buy-f-35s/101979.article |website=FlightGlobal}} An article published in Belgian newspaper L'Avenir on 19 April 2015 speculated that, if the nuclear strike role via Belgium's Nuclear sharing policy were retained in the request for proposals, Belgium would be almost forced to buy the F-35 as to maintain this role.{{cite web |title=La Belgique quasi-contrainte d'acheter le F-35 si elle conserve sa mission nucléaire |url=http://www.lavenir.net/cnt/dmf20150419_00635125 |website=L'Avenir |archive-url=https://archive.today/20171219173118/http://www.lavenir.net/cnt/dmf20150419_00635125 |archive-date=19 December 2017 |language=fr |date=19 April 2015 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|title=Belgium Forced to Buy F-35 If Nuclear Strike Mission Maintained |url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/162912/no-alternative-to-f_35-if-belgium-keeps-nuke-mission.html|website=Defense Aerospace |archive-url=https://archive.today/20171219173235/http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/162912/no-alternative-to-f_35-if-belgium-keeps-nuke-mission.html |archive-date=19 December 2017|date=19 April 2015 |url-status=dead}} Belgium officially launched its F-16 replacement program in March 2017, issuing requests for proposals to three European and two US manufacturers: Boeing Defense, Space & Security, Lockheed Martin, Dassault, Eurofighter GmbH and Saab Group, offering the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon and Saab JAS 39 Gripen respectively.{{cite web|last1=Orban|first1=André|title=Belgian Government gives green light at launch of purchase procedure for new fighter jet |url=http://www.aviation24.be/military-aircraft/belgian-air-component/belgian-government-gives-green-light-launch-purchase-procedure-new-fighter-jet/|website=Aviation 24 Belgium |archive-url=https://archive.today/20171219163514/http://www.aviation24.be/military-aircraft/belgian-air-component/belgian-government-gives-green-light-launch-purchase-procedure-new-fighter-jet/ |archive-date=19 December 2017|date=17 March 2017 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|last1=Jennings|first1=Gareth|title=Belgium formally launches fighter replacement effort |url=http://www.janes.com/article/68838/|website=IHS Jane's 360 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20171219163424/http://www.janes.com/article/68838/belgium-formally-launches-fighter-replacement-effort |archive-date=19 December 2017|date=20 March 2017 |url-status=dead}} On 25 October 2018, Belgium officially selected the offer for 34 F-35As; government officials stated that it had come down to price, and that "The offer from the Americans was the best in all seven evaluation criteria". The total purchasing price for the aircraft and support until 2030 totaled €4 billion, €600 million cheaper than the budgeted €4.6 billion.{{cite web |last1=Emmott |first1=Robin |title=Belgium picks Lockheed's F-35 over Eurofighter on price |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-aerospace-belgium/belgium-picks-lockheeds-f-35-over-eurofighter-on-price-idUSKCN1MZ1S0 |work=Reuters|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025145835/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-aerospace-belgium/belgium-picks-lockheeds-f-35-over-eurofighter-on-price-idUSKCN1MZ1S0 |archive-date=25 October 2018 |date=25 October 2018 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last1=Insinna |first1=Valerie |title=F-35 officially wins Belgian fighter contest |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2018/10/25/f-35-officially-wins-belgian-fighter-contest/ |website=Defense News |archive-url=https://archive.today/20181025153323/https://www.defensenews.com/air/2018/10/25/f-35-officially-wins-belgian-fighter-contest/ |archive-date=25 October 2018 |date=25 October 2018 |url-status=live}} In April 2020, the first F-35 contract was signed, with deliveries to begin in 2023.{{cite web |last1=Broek, van den |first1=Leonard |title=Eerste officiële F-35 contract voor België |url=https://www.upinthesky.nl/2020/04/02/eerste-officiele-f-35-contract-voor-belgie/ |website=Up in the Sky |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703110902/https://www.upinthesky.nl/2020/04/02/eerste-officiele-f-35-contract-voor-belgie/ |archive-date=3 July 2020 |date=2 April 2020 |url-status=live}}

{{main|Saab JAS 39 Gripen#Brazil}}

In June 2008, the Brazilian Air Force issued a request for information on the following aircraft: F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, F-16 Fighting Falcon, Rafale, Su-35, Gripen NG and Eurofighter Typhoon.{{cite news |url=http://www.estadao.com.br/noticias/nacional,jobim-discute-sistemas-militares-na-franca-e-russia,115010,0.htm|title=Jobim discute sistemas militares na França e Rússia|language=pt|newspaper=O Estado de S. Paulo|date=25 January 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606131847/http://www.estadao.com.br/noticias/nacional%2Cjobim-discute-sistemas-militares-na-franca-e-russia%2C115010%2C0.htm |archive-date=6 June 2013 |url-status=dead}} In October 2008, the service selected three finalists for F-X2 – Dassault Rafale, Gripen NG and Boeing F/A-18E/F.{{cite news|author=Trimble, Stephen |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/brazil-names-three-finalists-for-f-x2-contract-rejects-three-316814/|title=Brazil names three finalists for F-X2 contract, rejects three others|newspaper=Flightglobal|date=6 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121002082836/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/brazil-names-three-finalists-for-f-x2-contract-rejects-three-316814/ |archive-date=2 October 2012}} On 5 January 2010, media reports stated that the final evaluation report by the Brazilian Air Force placed the Gripen ahead of the other two contenders based on unit and operating costs.{{cite news |url=http://www1.folha.uol.com.br/folha/brasil/ult96u674679.shtml|title=FAB prefere caça sueco a francês|language=pt|newspaper=Folha de S. Paulo|date=5 January 2010 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120524195218/http://www1.folha.uol.com.br/folha/brasil/ult96u674679.shtml |archive-date=24 May 2012 |url-status=dead}}{{cite news |url=https://www.dn.se/ekonomi/gripen-favorit-i-brasilien/|title=Gripen favorit i Brasilien|work=Dagens Nyheter|date=15 October 2010|language=sv |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140313143421/http://www.dn.se/ekonomi/gripen-favorit-i-brasilien/ |archive-date= 13 March 2014 |url-status=live}} In February 2011, Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff had reportedly decided in favour of the F/A-18.{{cite news |url=http://www.leparisien.fr/economie/le-bresil-prefere-le-f-18-au-rafale-de-dassault-09-02-2011-1307284.php|title=Le Brésil le F-18 au Rafale de Dassault|language=fr|newspaper=Le Parisien|date=9 February 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121029092005/http://www.leparisien.fr/economie/le-bresil-prefere-le-f-18-au-rafale-de-dassault-09-02-2011-1307284.php |archive-date=29 October 2012 |url-status=live}} After Edward Snowden's revelation that the NSA had been intercepting Rouseff's private communications, and her ensuing fury, the Brazilian government selected the Gripen NG in December 2013 in a US$5 billion deal to equip the air force.{{cite web |last=Mehta |first=Aaron |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20131218/DEFREG02/312180027/Brazil-Picks-Sweden-s-Gripen-Fighter-Jet |archive-url=https://archive.today/20131219003024/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20131218/DEFREG02/312180027/Brazil-Picks-Sweden-s-Gripen-Fighter-Jet |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 December 2013 |title=Brazil Picks Sweden's Gripen Fighter Jet |work=Defense News |date=18 December 2013}}{{Cite web |title=How US spying cost Boeing multibillion-dollar jet contract with Brazil |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/world/americas/story/us-spying-boeing-f-a-18-super-hornet-jet-deal-brazil-dilma-rousseff-edward-snowden-221575-2013-12-20 |access-date=2023-07-14 |website=India Today|date=21 December 2013}}

{{main|Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Canadian procurement}}

The Rafale was amongst various fighters proposed to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force's McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet.{{cite web |last= Pugliese |first= David |url= http://communities.canada.com/ottawacitizen/blogs/defencewatch/archive/2009/11/03/canadian-air-force-needs-competition-on-next-generation-fighter-next-year-at-the-latest.aspx |title=Canadian Air Force Needs Competition on Next Generation Fighter Next Year at the Latest |work=Ottawa Citizen |date=4 November 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091109062224/http://communities.canada.com/ottawacitizen/blogs/defencewatch/archive/2009/11/03/canadian-air-force-needs-competition-on-next-generation-fighter-next-year-at-the-latest.aspx |archive-date=9 November 2009}} In 2005, a report compiled by Canada's Department of Defence reviewing aircraft noted concerns over the Rafale's interoperability with US forces; Dassault had also been unable to confirm engine performance during cold weather conditions.{{cite web |last= Berthiaume |first= Lee |url=http://o.canada.com/news/national/defence-officials-catalogued-pros-cons-of-f-35-competitors/ |title= Defence officials catalogued pros, cons of F-35 competitors |publisher=Canada.com |date= 11 February 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130827070624/http://o.canada.com/2013/02/11/defence-officials-catalogued-pros-cons-of-f-35-competitors/ |archive-date=27 August 2013}} In July 2010, the Canadian government announced the F-35 as the CF-18's replacement; the nation was already a partner in the Joint Strike Fighter program since 1997 and a Tier 3 partner for the F-35 since 2002.{{cite web |url= http://news.gc.ca/web/article-eng.do?m=/index&nid=548059 |title= Canada's Next Generation Fighter Capability: The Joint Strike Fighter F-35 Lightning II |publisher= Government of Canada |date= 16 July 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110211114358/http://news.gc.ca/web/article-eng.do?m=%2Findex&nid=548059 |archive-date= 11 February 2011 |url-status=dead}}{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/Living/2010-06-08/article-1298066/ReportOttawa-set-to-spend-9B-on-new-US-fighter-jets-from-single-source/1 |title=Report: Ottawa set to spend $9B on new U.S. fighter jets from single source |location=Charlottetown, CA |newspaper=The Guardian |date=8 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130930034731/http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/Living/2010-06-08/article-1298066/ReportOttawa-set-to-spend-9B-on-new-US-fighter-jets-from-single-source/1 |archive-date=30 September 2013 |url-status=dead}} In December 2012, the Canadian government announced that the F-35 buy had been abandoned due to cost rises and that a fresh procurement process would begin.{{cite news |last=Campion-Smith |first=Bruce |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2012/12/12/f35_deal_scrapped_as_conservative_government_begins_new_search_for_fighter_jet.html |title=F-35 deal scrapped as Conservative government begins new search for fighter jet |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=12 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020212126/http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2012/12/12/f35_deal_scrapped_as_conservative_government_begins_new_search_for_fighter_jet.html |archive-date=20 October 2013 |url-status=dead}} In January 2013, Dassault responded to Canada's request for information.{{cite news |last= Vidalon |first= Dominique |url= http://ca.reuters.com/article/businessNews/idCABRE9070ZH20130108 |title= Dassault sees prospects for Rafale in Canada|work=Reuters|date=8 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130113063724/http://ca.reuters.com/article/businessNews/idCABRE9070ZH20130108 |archive-date= 13 January 2013}} Various aircraft were considered, including the F-35.{{cite web |url= http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/01/14/public-works-writes-to-five-major-european-us-fighter-jet-makers-to-replace-f-35s/33347 |title=Public Works writes to five major European, US fighter jet makers to replace F-35s, critics call it a 'market' analysis|work=Hill Times|date= 14 January 2013 |url-access=subscription |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131019131532/http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/01/14/public-works-writes-to-five-major-european-us-fighter-jet-makers-to-replace-f-35s/33347 |archive-date= 19 October 2013 |url-status=live}} In January 2014, Dassault offered a contract with full technology transfer, allowing Canada to perform its own support and upgrades, thereby lowering long-term service costs.{{cite news |title= Dassault Aviation ramps up CF-18 replacement pitch |work= CBC News |url= http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/dassault-aviation-ramps-up-cf-18-replacement-pitch-1.2507029 |date=22 January 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140320115415/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/dassault-aviation-ramps-up-cf-18-replacement-pitch-1.2507029 |archive-date= 20 March 2014 |url-status=live}}{{cite news|first=Terry|last=Milewski |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/f-35-s-french-rival-pitches-canadianized-fighter-jet-1.2577234|title=F-35's French rival pitches 'Canadianized' fighter jet|work=CBC News|date=18 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509020244/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/f-35-s-french-rival-pitches-canadianized-fighter-jet-1.2577234 |archive-date=9 May 2015 |url-status=live}} In November 2018, Dassault withdrew from the competition, reportedly over interoperability and intelligence sharing requirements, particularly with the US, complicated by France's lack of involvement in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing group.{{cite news |last1=Leblanc |first1=Daniel |title=European fighter-jet manufacturer pulls out of Canadian competition to replace CF-18s |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-european-fighter-jet-manufacturer-pulls-out-of-canadian-competition-to/ |website=The Globe and Mail |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107230239/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-european-fighter-jet-manufacturer-pulls-out-of-canadian-competition-to/ |archive-date=7 November 2018 |location=Ottawa |date=7 November 2018 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last1=Pugliese |first1=David |title=Dassault withdraws from Canada's fighter jet competition |url=https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2018/11/07/dassault-withdraws-from-canadas-fighter-jet-competition/ |website=Defense News |archive-url=https://archive.today/20181107230241/https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2018/11/07/dassault-withdraws-from-canadas-fighter-jet-competition/ |archive-date=7 November 2018 |location=Victoria, British Columbia |date=7 November 2018 |url-status=live}}

In June 2022, La Tribune reported Dassault made an offer for 15 fighters and 9 in option for the Colombian Air Force. Colombia was interested in used ones, but France denied, taking into consideration it already sold 24 jets to Croatia and Greece.{{cite web|title=La Colombie sera-t-elle la porte d'entrée du Rafale en Amérique du Sud ? |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/la-colombie-sera-t-elle-la-porte-d-entree-du-rafale-en-amerique-du-sud-918840.html|website=La Tribune|date=22 June 2022|language=fr}} On 21 December 2022, the Colombian government announced that they had shortlisted the Rafale for a potential 16 aircraft order to replace their aging Kfir.{{Cite web |date=2022-12-21 |title=Colombia closes in on purchase of 16 French Rafale fighter planes |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/colombia-closes-purchase-16-french-rafale-fighter-planes-2022-12-21/ |access-date=2022-12-22 |work=Reuters}} Nevertheless, on 3 January 2023, Colombia and Dassault explained they could not come to an agreement, mainly because of the high price-tag of the planes. On 1 April, Colombia issued a new RFP for new planes, with the Rafale, the Gripen and the F-16 as favorites.{{cite web|title=Colombia restarts competition for new fighter, with Rafale, F-16 and Gripen in the running |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/colombia-restarts-competition-for-new-fighter-with-rafale-f-16-and-gripen-in-the-running/|website=airdatanews.com/|date=April 2023}}

On 3 April 2025, Colombia announced it had selected the Gripen E/F to replace its Kfir fleet in a deal expected to include 16 to 24 units.{{Citation |date= 3 April 2025 |url= https://www.aereo.jor.br/2025/04/03/colombia-anuncia-aquisicao-de-cacas-suecos-gripen-para-modernizar-forca-aerea/ |title= Colômbia anuncia aquisição de caças suecos Gripen para modernizar Força Aérea |trans-title= Colombia announces the acquisition of Gripen Swedish fighters in order to modernise its air force |language= pt-BR |work= Poder aéreo}}{{Cite web |last=Torrado |first= Santiago |date=2025-04-03 |title=Colombia elige renovar su fuerza aérea con los cazas Gripen de origen sueco | trans-title = Colombia decides to renew its air force with Swedish Gripen fighters |url= https://elpais.com/america-colombia/2025-04-03/colombia-elige-renovar-su-fuerza-aerea-con-los-cazas-gripen-de-origen-sueco.html |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=El País América Colombia |language=es-CO}}

{{main|Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II procurement#Finland}}

In June 2015, a working group set up by the Finnish MoD proposed starting the HX Fighter Program to replace the Finnish Air Force's current fleet of F/A-18 Hornets. The group recognises five potential types: Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II and Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F.{{cite web |url=http://www.defmin.fi/en/topical/press_releases/working_group_proposes_multi-role_fighters_to_replace_f_a-18_aircraft.6273.news |title=Working group proposes multi-role fighters to replace F/A-18 aircraft |date=11 June 2015 |access-date=14 June 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150618214823/http://www.defmin.fi/en/topical/press_releases/working_group_proposes_multi-role_fighters_to_replace_f_a-18_aircraft.6273.news |archive-date=18 June 2015 |url-status=live}} In December 2015, the Finnish MoD informed Great Britain, France, Sweden and the US informing them of the launch of the HX Fighter Program to replace the Hornet fleet, which will be decommissioned by 2025, with multi-role fighters; the Rafale is mentioned as a potential fighter.{{cite web |publisher= Def Min |place= Finland |type= press release |url= http://www.defmin.fi/en/topical/press_releases/potential_suppliers_were_informed_of_the_launching_of_the_hx_fighter_program.7606.news |title= Potential suppliers were informed of the launching of the HX Fighter Program |date= 18 December 2015 |access-date= 31 December 2015 |archive-date= 28 October 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20201028122536/https://www.defmin.fi/en/topical/press_releases/potential_suppliers_were_informed_of_the_launching_of_the_hx_fighter_program.7606.news |url-status= dead}} The request for information was sent in early 2016; five responses were received in November 2016.{{cite web |publisher= Def Min |place= Finland |type= press release |url= http://www.defmin.fi/en/topical/press_releases/2016/the_finnish_defence_forces_logistics_command_received_responses_concerning_the_replacement_of_the_hornet_aircraft.8083.news |title= The Finnish Defence Forces' Logistics Command received responses concerning the replacement of the Hornet aircraft |date= 22 November 2016 |access-date= 13 March 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170313220311/http://www.defmin.fi/en/topical/press_releases/2016/the_finnish_defence_forces_logistics_command_received_responses_concerning_the_replacement_of_the_hornet_aircraft.8083.news |archive-date= 13 March 2017 |url-status=live}} In December 2021, the Finnish newspaper Iltalehti reported that several foreign and security policy sources had confirmed the Finnish Defense Forces' recommendation of the F-35 as Finland's next fighter due to its "capability and expected long lifespan".{{cite web |url= https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/43392/finland-chooses-f-35-as-its-next-fighter-report |title= Finland Chooses F-35 as Its Next Fighter: Report |date= 6 December 2021 |website= The Drive}}{{cite web |url= https://theaviationist.com/2021/12/06/f-35-finland/ |title= F-35 Selected by the Finnish Defense Forces to Replace F/A-18 Hornets According to Local Media |date= 6 December 2021}}

In February 2009, French President Nicolas Sarkozy announced that Kuwait was considering buying up to 28 Rafales.{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20100321/DEFSECT01/3210301/Kuwait-MPs-Object-Rafale-Purchase-Deal |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120729034728/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20100321/DEFSECT01/3210301/Kuwait-MPs-Object-Rafale-Purchase-Deal |url-status=dead |archive-date=29 July 2012|title=Kuwait MPs Object To Rafale Purchase Deal|newspaper=Defense News|date=21 March 2010}} In October 2009, during a visit to Paris, the Kuwaiti Defence Minister expressed interest in the Rafale and said that he was awaiting Dassault's terms.{{cite news |url=http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2009/10/23/Kuwait-eyeing-Rafale-jets/UPI-59321256335933/|title=Kuwait eyeing Rafale jets|work=United Press International|date=23 October 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091027194007/http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2009/10/23/Kuwait-eyeing-Rafale-jets/UPI-59321256335933/ |archive-date=27 October 2009}} Islamist lawmakers in the Kuwaiti national assembly threatened to block such a purchase, accusing the Defence Minister of lack of transparency and being manipulated by business interests.{{cite news |url=http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2010/03/23/Kuwaiti-MPs-seek-to-block-Rafale-sale/UPI-84161269368170/|title=Kuwaiti MPs seek to block Rafale sale|work=United Press International|date=23 March 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100325222057/http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2010/03/23/Kuwaiti-MPs-seek-to-block-Rafale-sale/UPI-84161269368170/ |archive-date=25 March 2010}} In January 2012, the French Defence Minister said that both Kuwait and Qatar were waiting to see if the UAE first purchased the Rafale and that Kuwait would look to buy 18–22 Rafales.{{cite news |url=http://www.thenational.ae/news/world/middle-east/qatar-and-kuwait-wait-to-follow-uaes-lead-over-purchase-of-rafale-fighter-jets-from-france|title=Qatar and Kuwait wait to follow UAE's lead over purchase of Rafale fighter jets from France|newspaper=The National|date=10 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120113003055/http://www.thenational.ae/news/world/middle-east/qatar-and-kuwait-wait-to-follow-uaes-lead-over-purchase-of-rafale-fighter-jets-from-france |archive-date=13 January 2012}} However, on 11 September 2015, Eurofighter announced that an agreement had been reached with Kuwait to buy 28 Typhoons.{{cite news|title=Eurofighter welcomes the agreement between Italy and Kuwait for the supply of 28 Eurofighter Typhoons |url=https://www.eurofighter.com/news-and-events/2015/09/eurofighter-welcomes-the-agreement-between-italy-and-kuwait-for-the-supply-of-28-eurofighter-typhoons |agency=Eurofighter|date=11 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151004092215/https://www.eurofighter.com/news-and-events/2015/09/eurofighter-welcomes-the-agreement-between-italy-and-kuwait-for-the-supply-of-28-eurofighter-typhoons |archive-date=4 October 2015 |url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Kuwait Opts For Eurofighter Typhoon |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/kuwait-opts-eurofighter-typhoon |work=Aviation Week & Space Technology|date=11 September 2015 |url-access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928081554/http://aviationweek.com/defense/kuwait-opts-eurofighter-typhoon |archive-date=28 September 2015 |url-status=live}}

{{main|Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II procurement#Singapore}}

In 2005, the Republic of Singapore Air Force launched its Next Generation Fighter (NGF) programme to replace its ageing A-4SU Super Skyhawks. Several options were considered and the Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA) conducted a detailed technical assessment, simulations and other tests to determine the final selection. This reduced the list of competitors to the Rafale and the F-15SG Strike Eagle. In December 2005, Singapore ordered 12 F-15SGs.{{cite press release |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2005/dec/12dec05_nr.html |title=Singapore Seals Deal to Acquire Twelve F-15SG |date=12 December 2005 |publisher=Ministry of Defence (Singapore) |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060325154941/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2005/dec/12dec05_nr.html |archive-date=25 March 2006}} According to Defense Industry Daily, key reasons for the selection were that, despite the Rafale's superior aerodynamics, it had insufficient range, weapons, and sensor integration.{{cite web |url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/singapores-rsaf-decides-to-fly-like-an-eagle-01141/|title=F-15SG: Singapore's RSAF Decides to Fly Like An Eagle|work=Defense Industry Daily|date=1 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141211004202/https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/singapores-rsaf-decides-to-fly-like-an-eagle-01141/ |archive-date=11 December 2014 |url-status=live}}

{{main|Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II procurement#Switzerland}}

In February 2007, Switzerland was reportedly considering the Rafale and other fighters to replace its ageing Northrop F-5 Tiger IIs.Le Temps, 13 February 2007. A one-month evaluation started in October 2008 at Emmen Airforce Base, consisting of approximately 30 evaluation flights; the Rafale, along with the JAS 39 Gripen and the Typhoon, were evaluated.{{cite news |url=http://www.nzz.ch/aktuell/startseite/zwei-franzoesische-rafale-in-emmen-gelandet--1.1072196 |title=Rafale für Testflüge in der Schweiz gelandet |newspaper=Neue Zuercher Zeitung|language=de|date=9 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141218223914/http://www.nzz.ch/aktuell/startseite/zwei-franzoesische-rafale-in-emmen-gelandet--1.1072196 |archive-date=18 December 2014}} Although a leaked Swiss Air Force evaluation report revealed that the Rafale won the competition on technical grounds,{{#tag:ref|Quote: "The Rafale was the clear winner of the SAF evaluation, with the Eurofighter second, but the Swiss government opted for the cheaper Gripen package."{{cite web|author=Pocock, Chris |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/singapore-air-show/2012-02-14/rafale-blowing-hot-again-switzerland-uae|title=Rafale blowing hot again in Switzerland|work=AIN Online|date=14 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216225153/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/singapore-air-show/2012-02-14/rafale-blowing-hot-again-switzerland-uae |archive-date=16 February 2012}}|group=N}} on 30 November 2011, the Swiss Federal Council announced plans to buy 22 Gripen NGs due to its lower acquisition and maintenance costs.{{cite news|author=Hoyle, Craig |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rafale-team-fights-back-after-swiss-gripen-win-365471/|title=Rafale team fights back after Swiss Gripen win|newspaper=Flightglobal|date=30 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111205080042/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rafale-team-fights-back-after-swiss-gripen-win-365471/ |archive-date=5 December 2011}} Due to a referendum, this purchase never happened.

In March 2018, Swiss officials named contenders in its Air 2030 program: The Rafale, Saab Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and Lockheed Martin F-35.{{cite web|last1=Sprenger|first1=Sebastian|title=Switzerland names contenders in $8 billion 'Air 2030' program |url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2018/03/27/switzerland-names-contenders-in-8-billion-air-2030-program/|website=DefenseNews |archive-url=https://archive.today/20180328061739/https://www.defensenews.com/land/2018/03/27/switzerland-names-contenders-in-8-billion-air-2030-program/ |archive-date=28 March 2018|location=Cologne, Germany|date=27 March 2018 |url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=No more than CHF8 billion for new fighter jets |url=https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/politics/defence-strategy_no-more-than-chf8-billion-for-new-fighter-jets/43660584|website=Swiss Info |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109083224/https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/politics/defence-strategy_no-more-than-chf8-billion-for-new-fighter-jets/43660584 |archive-date=9 November 2017|date=8 November 2017 |url-status=live}} In October 2018, the Swiss Air Force was reportedly limited to buying a single-engine fighter for budgetary reasons.{{cite web |last1=Johnson |first1=Rueben F |title=Update: Switzerland's Air 2030 plan narrows down options |url=https://www.janes.com/article/84023/update-switzerland-s-air-2030-plan-narrows-down-options |website=IHS Jane's 360 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181026154556/https://www.janes.com/article/84023/update-switzerland-s-air-2030-plan-narrows-down-options |archive-date=26 October 2018 |location=Kiev |date=24 October 2018 |url-status=live}} In May 2019, the Rafale performed demonstration flights at Payerne Air Base for comparison against other bids.{{cite web |last1=Sprenger |first1=Sebastian |title=The F-35 and other warplanes descend on Switzerland this spring |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2019/04/11/the-f-35-and-other-warplanes-descend-on-switzerland-this-spring/ |website=Defense News |archive-url=https://archive.today/20190411234148/https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2019/04/11/the-f-35-and-other-warplanes-descend-on-switzerland-this-spring/ |archive-date=11 April 2019 |location=Cologne, Germany |date=11 April 2019 |url-status=live}} On 30 June 2021, the Swiss Federal Council proposed to Parliament the acquisition of 36 F-35As{{cite web |url=https://www.admin.ch/gov/de/start/dokumentation/medienmitteilungen/bundesrat.msg-id-84275.html|title=Air2030: Bundesrat beschliesst Beschaffung von 36 Kampfflugzeugen des Typs F-35A|website=admin.ch}}{{cite web |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/41362/switzerland-chooses-f-35-as-its-next-fighter-jet|title= Switzerland Chooses F-35 as Its Next Fighter Jet|date= 30 June 2021}} at a cost of up to 6 billion Swiss francs (US$6.5 billion), citing the aircraft's cost- and combat-effectiveness.{{cite news |last=Insinna |first=Valerie |date=30 June 2021 |title=Lockheed's F-35 topples competition in Swiss fighter contest |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2021/06/30/lockheeds-f-35-topples-competition-in-swiss-fighter-contest/ |work=defensenews.com}} However, it was later confirmed that the costs are capped for a period of just 10 years.{{cite web |url=https://www.20min.ch/fr/story/la-polemique-autour-du-prix-des-f-35-continue-109596339098|title=Avions de combat – La polémique autour du prix des F-35 continue|date=11 July 2021|website=20 minutes}} The Liberal Greens have promised to examine the F-35's environmental impact.{{cite web |url=https://www.24heures.ch/la-suisse-choisit-son-nouvel-avion-de-combat-145347794053 |title=Achat des F-35A américains (direct) – Des réactions contrastées face au choix du Conseil fédéral|website=24 heures|date=30 June 2021}} The Swiss anti-military group GSoA intended to contest the purchase in another national referendum supported by the Green Party of Switzerland and the Social Democratic Party of Switzerland (which previously managed to block the Gripen).{{Cite web|url=https://www.24heures.ch/suisse/change-echec-gripen-aujourdhui/story/22057626|title=Ce qui a changé entre l'échec du Gripen et aujourd'hui|date=8 January 2020 |via=24heures.ch}}{{Cite web|title=Swiss government sets sights on F-35A fighter jet fleet|url=https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/swiss-government-sets-sights-on-f-35a-fighter-jet-fleet/46748510|access-date=2021-06-30|website=Swissinfo|date=30 June 2021}} In August 2022, they registered the initiative, with 120,000 people having signed in less than a year (with 100,000 required).{{Cite web|url=https://www.rts.ch/info/suisse/13310924-les-opposants-a-lachat-des-avions-de-combat-f35-ont-depose-leur-initiative.html|title=Les opposants à l'achat des avions de combat F-35 ont déposé leur initiative|date=16 August 2022|website=rts.ch}}

On 15 September 2022, the Swiss National council gave the Federal council permission to sign the purchase deal, with a time limit for signing of March 2023.{{cite web |title=Der Nationalrat gibt grünes Licht für die Beschaffung des F-35 |date=15 September 2022 |url=https://www.srf.ch/news/schweiz/kampfjet-soll-abheben-der-nationalrat-gibt-gruenes-licht-fuer-die-beschaffung-des-f-35 |access-date=16 September 2022}} The deal to buy 36 F-35A was signed on 19 September 2022, with deliveries to commence in 2027 and conclude by 2030, bypassing the popular initiative.{{cite web |title=Air2030: Beschaffungsvertrag für die Kampfflugzeuge F-35A unterzeichnet |url=https://www.vbs.admin.ch/content/vbs-internet/de/home.detail.nsb.html/90403.html |publisher=Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport |access-date=19 September 2022 |archive-date=27 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227165235/https://www.vbs.admin.ch/content/vbs-internet/de/home.detail.nsb.html/90403.html |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |title=Schweiz unterzeichnet Kaufvertrag für F-35 |date=19 September 2022 |url=https://www.tagesanzeiger.ch/vertrag-zur-beschaffung-der-f-35-jets-unterschrieben-793541527081 |publisher=Tagesanzeiger |access-date=19 September 2022}}

In 2002, the Republic of Korea Air Force chose the F-15K Slam Eagle over the Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon and Sukhoi Su-35 for its 40 aircraft F-X Phase 1 fighter competition.{{cite web |author=Govindasamy, Siva |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/south-korean-f-15k-deal-may-close-by-end-2007-218740/ |title=South Korean F-15K deal may close by end 2007 |work=Flightglobal |date=22 October 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105100722/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/south-korean-f-15k-deal-may-close-by-end-2007-218740/ |archive-date=5 November 2012}}

In January 2007, the French newspaper Journal du Dimanche reported that Libya sought 13 to 18 Rafales "in a deal worth as much as US$3.24 billion".{{cite news |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/france-aviation-rafale-idUKL1475276120070114|title=UPDATE 3-Dassault source denies reported Libya Rafale order|work=Reuters|date=14 January 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130412002250/http://uk.reuters.com/article/2007/01/14/france-aviation-rafale-idUKL1475276120070114 |archive-date=12 April 2013}} In December 2007, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi declared Libya's interest in the Rafale,{{cite news|author1=Antonovics, Nick |author2=Belot, Jean-Michel |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/libya-france-idUSL0525349320071205|title=France to sell Libya up to 14 fighter jets – report|work=Reuters|date=5 December 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013082324/https://www.reuters.com/article/2007/12/05/libya-france-idUSL0525349320071205 |archive-date=13 October 2012}} but no order was placed. French Rafales later attacked targets in Libya as part of the international military intervention during the 2011 Libyan civil war.{{cite web |url=http://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/libye-les-rafale-tirent-des-missiles-de-croisiere-scalp|title=Libye : Les Rafale tirent des missiles de croisière Scalp|language=fr|work=Mer et Marine|date=25 March 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121031112546/http://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/libye-les-rafale-tirent-des-missiles-de-croisiere-scalp |archive-date=31 October 2012}}

In late 2007, La Tribune reported that a prospective US$2.85 billion sale to Morocco had fallen through, the government selecting the F-16C/D instead.{{cite news|author=Newby, Andrew |url=http://www.abcmoney.co.uk/news/212007138523.htm|title=Dassault Aviation to lose Rafale order in Morocco to Lockheed Martin – report |work=ABC Money|date=21 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130826072525/http://www.abcmoney.co.uk/news/212007138523.htm |archive-date=26 August 2013}}{{cite news|author=Jarry, Emmanuel |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/france-defence-sales-idUSL2474425620071024|title=France to rejig arms sales after Rafale flop|work=Reuters|date=24 October 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130412002248/https://www.reuters.com/article/2007/10/24/france-defence-sales-idUSL2474425620071024 |archive-date=12 April 2013}} While French Defense Minister Hervé Morin labelled it as overly sophisticated and too costly, defense analysists have said that miscalculations of the DGA's offer price and hesitations over financing were detrimental to the negotiations.{{cite news |last=Lancesseur |first=Alain |url=http://www.lesechos.fr/19/10/2007/LesEchos/20029-079-ECH_echec-du-rafale-au-maroc---un-gachis-franco-francais.htm |title=Echec du Rafale au Maroc : un gâchis franco-français |date=19 October 2007 |language=fr |newspaper=Les Échos |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304023852/http://www.lesechos.fr/19/10/2007/LesEchos/20029-079-ECH_echec-du-rafale-au-maroc---un-gachis-franco-francais.htm |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=live}}

In February 2009, France offered Rafales to Oman to replace its ageing fleet of SEPECAT Jaguars.{{cite news|author=Jarry, Emmanuel |url=http://in.reuters.com/article/france-oman-fighters-idINLB71245420090211|title=France offers Rafale fighter to Oman – sources|work=Reuters|date=11 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120517081149/http://in.reuters.com/article/2009/02/11/france-oman-fighters-idINLB71245420090211 |archive-date=17 May 2012}} In December 2012, Oman placed an order for 12 Typhoons.{{cite news|author=Hoyle, Craig |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/oman-edges-closer-to-typhoon-deal-says-uk-340413/|title=Oman edges closer to Typhoon deal says UK|work=Flightglobal|date=9 April 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120114025300/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/oman-edges-closer-to-typhoon-deal-says-uk-340413/ |archive-date=14 January 2012}}{{cite news|author=Wall, Robert|title=BAE's $4 Billion Oman Order Extends U.K. Fighter Heritage |date=21 December 2012 |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-12-21/bae-s-4-billion-omani-order-extends-british-combat-jet-heritage.html |publisher=Bloomberg News|access-date=30 December 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131023181830/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-12-21/bae-s-4-billion-omani-order-extends-british-combat-jet-heritage.html |archive-date= 23 October 2013 |url-status=live}}

File:Rafalefamily.jpg

;Rafale A: Technology demonstrator, first flew in 1986.

;Rafale D: Dassault used this designation (D for discret) in the early 1990s to emphasise the new semi-stealthy design features.Gaines 1989, p. 80.

;Rafale B: Two-seater version for the French Air and Space Force.

;Rafale C: Same as Rafale B but single-seat version for the French Air and Space Force.

;Rafale M: Similar to Rafale C, but with modifications to allow operations from CATOBAR – equipped aircraft carriers. For carrier operations, the M model has a strengthened airframe, longer nose gear leg to provide a more nose-up attitude, larger tailhook between the engines, and a built-in boarding ladder. Consequently, the Rafale M weighs about {{convert|500|kg|lb|abbr=on}} more than the Rafale C. It is the only non-US fighter type cleared to operate from the decks of US carriers, using catapults and their arresting gear, as demonstrated in 2008 when six Rafales from Flottille 12F integrated into the {{USS|Theodore Roosevelt|CVN-71|6}} Carrier Air Wing interoperability exercise.{{cite web |url=http://www.safran-group.com/site-safran-en/press-media/media-section/article/french-rafale-lands-on-us-aircraft?6213 |title=French Rafale lands on US aircraft carrier, Theodore Roosevelt |publisher=SAFRAN |date=2 September 2008 |access-date=20 November 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129033344/http://www.safran-group.com/site-safran-en/press-media/media-section/article/french-rafale-lands-on-us-aircraft?6213 |archive-date=29 November 2014}}

;Rafale N: Originally called the Rafale BM, was a planned missile-only two-seater version for the Aéronavale. Budgetary constraints have been cited as grounds for its cancellation.{{Cite news|last=Tran|first=Pierre|title=France Cuts Two-Seat Rafale Purchase|work=Defense News|date=27 September 2004}}

;Rafale R: Proposed reconnaissance-oriented variant.

;Rafale DM: Two-seater version for the Egyptian Air Force.{{cite news |url= http://www.defens-aero.com/2015/07/les-premiers-rafale-egyptiens-devraient-etre-livres-dans-une-dizaine-de-jours.html |website= Defens-aero.com |title= The first Egyptian Rafale should be delivered within ten days |date= 15 July 2015 |language= Fr |access-date= 16 July 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150717185426/http://www.defens-aero.com/2015/07/les-premiers-rafale-egyptiens-devraient-etre-livres-dans-une-dizaine-de-jours.html |archive-date= 17 July 2015 |url-status=live}}

;Rafale EM: Single-seat version for the Egyptian Air Force.{{cite news |url= http://www.defensa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15954:francia-entregara-la-fragata-fremm-a-egipto-el-proximo-dia-23&catid=64:restomundo&Itemid=187 |website= defensa.com |title= Francia entregará la fragata FREMM a Egipto el próximo día 23 |date= 18 June 2015 |language= es |access-date= 18 June 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150618201816/http://www.defensa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15954:francia-entregara-la-fragata-fremm-a-egipto-el-proximo-dia-23&catid=64:restomundo&Itemid=187 |archive-date= 18 June 2015 |url-status=live}}

;Rafale DH: Two-seater version for the Indian Air Force.{{cite news |url= http://www.defens-aero.com/2017/01/rafale-indiens-denomination-rafale-eh-rafale-dh.html |website= defens-aero.com |title= Les Rafale indiens porteront la dénomination Rafale EH et Rafale DH |date= 11 January 2017 |language= fr |access-date= 11 January 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170113135438/http://www.defens-aero.com/2017/01/rafale-indiens-denomination-rafale-eh-rafale-dh.html |archive-date= 13 January 2017 |url-status=live}}

;Rafale EH: Single-seat version for the Indian Air Force.{{cite web |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/2/files/2017/07/Dassault-Aviation-Press-Conf-July-26-2017.pdf |title=Press Conference – Activities & Programs 1st half 2017 |publisher=Dassault Aviation |access-date=8 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808153957/https://www.dassault-aviation.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/2/files/2017/07/Dassault-Aviation-Press-Conf-July-26-2017.pdf |archive-date=8 August 2017 |url-status=live}}

;Rafale DQ: Two-seater version for the Qatar Emiri Air Force.{{cite web |title=Four more Rafales join Qatar Emiri Air Force |url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/air-warfare/four-more-rafales-join-qatar-emiri-air-force/ |website=Shephard Media |access-date=11 January 2022 |date=2021-07-28}}

;Rafale EQ: Single-seat version for the Qatar Emiri Air Force.

;Rafale DG: Two-seater version for the Hellenic Air Force.

;Rafale EG: Single-seat version for the Hellenic Air Force.{{cite web |date=2 June 2023 |title=Προσγειώθηκε στην Τανάγρα και το 15ο Rafale EG "416" στην Τανάγρα |trans-title=The 15th Rafale "416" landed in Tanagra |url=https://doureios.com/afixi-15ou-rafale-stin-tanagra-xeperasan-tis-2000-ores-ptiseon-ta-ellinika-rafale/}}

[[File:Dassult Rafale operators 2025.png|alt=Operators of the Dassult Rafale in 2025|thumb| Operators of the Dassult Rafale in 2025
{{legend|#ed1c24|Operators of Both Naval and Land Based Rafales}}

{{legend|#0c4c9e|Operators of land-based Rafales}}

{{legend|#db0ee0|Operators of land-based Rafales and Future operators of naval Rafales}}

{{legend|#1bd21f|Future operators}}]]

;{{Flag|Croatia}}

• Croatian Air Force – 12 ex-French C/B F3-R Rafales, consisting of 10 single-seat C F3-R and 2x two-seat B F3-R fighters. The first six were delivered on 25 April 2024 (2 B + 4 C) with the remaining six single-seaters are to be delivered in 2025.{{cite web |title=Croatia and France finalize Rafale acquisition |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/croatia-and-france-finalize-rafale-acquisition/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20241216010836/https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/croatia-and-france-finalize-rafale-acquisition/ |archive-date=16 December 2024 |access-date=25 November 2021 |publisher=Dassault Aviation Website}} In October 2023, Croatia officially acquired the first aircraft at a ceremony at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base. The 12th Rafale was delivered on 25 April 2025.
• 191st Fighter Aircraft Squadron

;{{Flag|Egypt}}

• Egyptian Air Force – 54 ordered with 24 Rafales in service {{as of|2018|12|lc=on}}.{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-2019-world-air-forces-directory-454126/|title=Analysis: 2019 World Air Forces Directory|first=Craig|last=Hoyle|date=4 December 2018|website=Flightglobal.com|access-date=2 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123181847/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-2019-world-air-forces-directory-454126/ |archive-date=23 January 2019 |url-status=live}}

;{{Flag|France}}

: A total of 234 have been ordered out of a planned 286. As of 2024, 180 units were delivered to the French Armed Forces, with 12 units sold to Greece and another 12 to Croatia, France currently operates around 156 Rafale. Once the deliveries completed, France is expected to field around 225 units. 185 for the Air and Space Force and 40 for the Navy. All units are expected to be delivered by 2035. In February 2025, the French defense minister announced a plan to buy 30 additional Rafales, which would put the total Rafale orders from France to 264 units.https://www.lexpress.fr/economie/entreprises/en-2024-le-nombre-de-rafale-livres-par-dassault-a-presque-double-EA6FA6HS4FE2RJVND6ALYGMNMM/?cmp_redirect=true{{cite web |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/france-wants-30-new-dassault-rafale-fighters |title=France Wants 30 New Dassault Rafale Fighters |work=The National Interest |last=Carlin |first=Maya |date=26 February 2025 |access-date=25 March 2025}}{{cite web |url=https://omnirole-rafale.com/des-annees-80-a-nos-jours/le-rafale-en-chiffres/ |title=Rafale: Livraisons et coûts |website=omnirole-rafale.com |language=fr |access-date=25 March 2025}}{{cite web |url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/dga/actualites/dga-receptionne-deux-rafale-destines-larmee-lair-lespace |title=La DGA a réceptionné deux Rafale destinés à l'armée de l'Air et de l'Espace |language=fr |publisher=Direction générale de l'armement |date=21 March 2024 |access-date=25 March 2025}}{{cite web |url=http://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/44-rafale-marine-auront-ete-livres-fin-2015|title=44 Rafale Marine auront été livrés fin 2015|language=fr|work=Mer et Marine|access-date=28 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221151037/http://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/44-rafale-marine-auront-ete-livres-fin-2015 |archive-date=21 December 2015 |url-status=live|date=16 October 2015}}{{cite web | url=https://www.20minutes.fr/societe/4072698-20240127-armee-air-objectif-atteindre-185-combat-rafale-2030 | title=L'Armée de l'air vise « 185 avions de combat Rafale d'ici à 2030 » | date=2 February 2023}}

• French Air and Space Force – ~100;{{cite web |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/2/files/2018/07/Dassault-Aviation-Press-Conference-July-19-2018.pdf |title=Press Conference – Activities & Programs 1st half 2018 |publisher=Dassault Aviation |date=19 July 2018 |access-date=20 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180720135707/https://www.dassault-aviation.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/2/files/2018/07/Dassault-Aviation-Press-Conference-July-19-2018.pdf |archive-date=20 July 2018 |url-status=live}}{{cite press release |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2014/07/EN-Dassault-Aviation-_-H1-_-07-25-2014.pdf |title=2014 first half-year results |publisher=Dassault Aviation |date=25 July 2014 |access-date=4 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140905175126/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2014/07/EN-Dassault-Aviation-_-H1-_-07-25-2014.pdf |archive-date=5 September 2014 |url-status=live}} flying units include:
• Saint-Dizier – Robinson Air Base
• Escadron de Chasse 2/4 La Fayette (2018–present){{cite web |url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/fre/actualites/la-vie-du-ministere/les-adieux-du-mirage-2000n|title=Les adieux du Mirage 2000N|website=defense.gouv.fr|access-date=2018-11-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181126015857/https://www.defense.gouv.fr/fre/actualites/la-vie-du-ministere/les-adieux-du-mirage-2000n |archive-date=26 November 2018 |url-status=live}} nuclear strike
• Escadron de Chasse 1/7 Provence (2006–2016){{cite web |url= http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/rafale-deployment-history/ |title=Rafale deployment history |publisher=Dassault Aviation |access-date=18 January 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130929015952/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/rafale-deployment-history/ |archive-date=29 September 2013}} multirole fighter
• Escadron de Chasse 1/4 Gascogne (2009–present) nuclear strike
• Escadron de Transformation Rafale 3/4 Aquitaine (October 2010–present, Rafale Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) jointly operated by French Air and Space Force and French Naval Aviation)
• Mont-de-Marsan Air Base
• Escadron de Chasse 2/30 Normandie-Niemen (2012–present) multirole fighter
• Escadron de Chasse 3/30 Lorraine (2016–present) multirole fighter
• Escadron de chasse et d'expérimentation 1/30 Côte d'Argent (2004–present) tactics development and evaluation
• Orange-Caritat Air Base
• Escadron de Chasse 1/5 Vendée (2024–present) multirole fighter
• Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE
• Escadron de Chasse 3/30 Lorraine (2010–2016) multirole fighter
• Escadron de Chasse 1/7 Provence (2016–present) multirole fighter
• French Navy – 46 delivered, 41 active{{cite web |last=GroizeIeau |first=Vincent |date=2021-11-19 |title=Rafale Marine : le M47 passe à la trappe |url=https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/node/267802 |website=Mer et Marine}}
• Naval Air Base Landivisiau
• Flottille 11F (2011–present) multirole carrier fighter
• Flottille 12F (2001–present) multirole carrier fighter
• Flottille 17F (2016–present){{cite web |first=Frédéric |last=Lert |url=http://www.janes.com/article/62317/french-navy-retires-super-etendard |title=French Navy retires Super Etendard |work=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |date=18 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160925062752/http://www.janes.com/article/62317/french-navy-retires-super-etendard |archive-date=25 September 2016 |url-status=live}} multirole carrier fighter

;{{Flag|Greece}}

• Hellenic Air Force – Greece ordered 18 Rafales in 2020,{{cite web |url=https://www.france24.com/en/20200913-greece-arms-up-with-new-fighter-jets-frigates-amid-heightened-turkey-tensions|title=Greece to boost arms with 18 new French Rafale jets, frigates amid growing Turkey tensions|date=13 September 2020|website=France 24}} and an additional six in 2021.{{cite web|date=2021-09-12|title=France confirms deal with Greece for six more Rafale fighter jets |url=https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20210912-france-confirms-deal-with-greece-for-six-more-rafale-fighter-jets|website=France 24}} The first was delivered on 21 July 2021.{{cite web |url=https://www.avionslegendaires.net/2021/07/actu/dassault-aviation-livre-le-premier-chasseur-omnirole-rafale-a-la-grece/|title=Dassault Aviation livre le premier chasseur omnirôle Rafale à la Grèce.|date=21 July 2021}} All 24 have been delivered to the Hellenic Air Force as of January 2025.{{cite web | title=World Air Forces 2024 | url=https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=98881 | ref={{sfnref | Anon.}} | access-date=2024-08-13}}{{cite web | title=Με 20 Rafale από εχθές η 332 Μοίρα | website=Δούρειος Ίππος | date=2024-10-04 | url=https://doureios.com/me-20-rafale-apo-ehthes-i-332-moira/ | ref={{sfnref|Δούρειος Ίππος|2024}} | access-date=2024-10-30}}{{cite web | title=Άφιξη δύο διθέσιων Rafale DG στην Τανάγρα | website=Δούρειος Ίππος | date=2024-11-20 | url=https://doureios.com/afixi-dyo-dithesion-rafale-dg-stin-tanagra/#google_vignette | ref={{sfnref|Δούρειος Ίππος|2024}} | access-date=2024-11-25}}{{cite web | title=Πολεμική Αεροπορία: Στην Τανάγρα το 23ο Rafale – Αρχές του 2025 το 24ο | website=Η ΝΑΥΤΕΜΠΟΡΙΚΗ | date=2024-12-20 | url=https://www.naftemporiki.gr/society/1862246/polemiki-aeroporia-stin-tanagra-to-23o-rafale-arches-toy-2025-to-24o/ | language=el | ref={{sfnref|Η ΝΑΥΤΕΜΠΟΡΙΚΗ|2024}} | access-date=2024-12-24}}{{cite web | title=Συμπληρώθηκε η δύναμη των Rafale - Στην Ελλάδα έφτασε το 24ο μαχητικό αεροσκάφος | website=Capital.gr | date=2025-01-09 | url=https://www.capital.gr/epikairotita/3895055/sumplirothike-i-dunami-ton-rafale-stin-ellada-eftase-to-24o-maxitiko-aeroskafos/ | language=el | ref={{sfnref|Capital.gr|2025}} | access-date=2025-01-10}}
• Tanagra Air Base
• 332nd All Weather Squadron (Hawks){{cite web|title=332 All Weather Squadron |url=https://www.haf.gr/en/structure/htaf/114-combat-wing/332-all-weather-squadron/|website=haf.gr}}

;{{Flag|India}}

• Indian Air Force – 36 ordered (28 Rafale EH and 8 Rafale DH), all delivered by July 2022. 32 operational as of July 2025.{{cite news|title=Second batch of Rafale aircraft reaches India, says IAF |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/second-batch-of-rafale-aircraft-reaches-india-says-iaf/articleshow/79045789.cms|access-date=2020-11-04|website=The Times of India|date=4 November 2020}}{{cite web|date=2020-07-27|title=Five Rafale jets leave for India: What happens next |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/five-rafale-jets-leave-for-india-what-happens-next-6525806/|website=The Indian Express}}{{cite news |last1=Siddiqui |first1=Huma |title=Indian Air Force gets 36 Rafale fighter jets! France completes delivery of lethal combat aircraft |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/indian-air-force-gets-36-rafale-fighter-jets-france-completes-delivery-of-lethal-combat-aircraft/2596300/ |access-date=17 July 2022 |publisher=Financial Express |date=16 July 2022}}
• Ambala AFS{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/ambala-hasimara-iaf-bases-being-readied-for-rafale-jets/articleshow/60899810.cms |title=Ambala, Hasimara IAF bases being readied for Rafale jets |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=1 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171210182926/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/ambala-hasimara-iaf-bases-being-readied-for-rafale-jets/articleshow/60899810.cms |archive-date=10 December 2017 |url-status=live}}
• No. 17 Squadron (Golden Arrows){{cite web |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/iaf-resurrects-vintage-golden-arrows-squadron-to-fly-first-batch-of-rafale-jets-1597749-2019-09-10 |title=IAF resurrects vintage 'Golden Arrows' squadron to fly first batch of Rafale jets |website=India Today|date=10 September 2019 |access-date=2019-09-13}}
• Hasimara AFS
• No. 101 Squadron (Falcons){{cite web |date=29 July 2021 |title=IAF formally inducts Rafale jets into 101 squadron of Eastern Air Command |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/iaf-formally-inducts-rafale-jets-into-101-squadron-of-eastern-air-command-101627520213443.html |website=The Hindustan Times}}
• Indian Navy – 26 (22 Rafale-M and 4 twin-seater) on order to be delivered by 2030.

;{{Flag|Qatar}}

• Qatar Emiri Air Force – 36 ordered, all delivered. Qatar ordered 24 of the fighters in 2015, and 12 more in 2018. It also has an option to order 36 more.{{cite web |url=https://www.france24.com/en/20190605-under-embargo-qatar-takes-delivery-first-rafale-jets|title=Under embargo Qatar takes delivery of first Rafale jets|date=5 June 2019|website=France 24}} As of 2023, all aircraft were delivered.The Military Balance 2023, p. 350.
• Dukhan / Tamim Airbase
• 1st Fighter Squadron 'Al Adiyat'

;{{Flag|United Arab Emirates}}

• United Arab Emirates Air Force – 80 Rafale F4s on order.{{cite web |date=19 May 2023 |title= Historical contract for the acquisition of 80 Rafale F4 by the United Arab Emirates |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/historical-contract-for-the-acquisition-of-80-rafale-f4-by-the-united-arab-emirates/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240916095958/https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/historical-contract-for-the-acquisition-of-80-rafale-f4-by-the-united-arab-emirates/ |archive-date=16 September 2024 |access-date=16 December 2024 |website=Dassault Aviation}}

;{{Flag|Indonesia}}

• Indonesian Air Force – 42 Rafale F4s on order to be delivered in 2026.{{cite web |title=Indonesia purchases the Rafale |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/group/press/press-kits/indonesia-purchases-the-rafale/ |access-date=2022-02-10 |website=Dassault Aviation, a major player to aeronautics}}{{Cite web |last=RNS |date=2023-12-04 |title=Kasau: Rafale pertama akan ditempatkan di Skadron Udara 12, berikutnya di Skadron Udara 1 dan Skadron Udara 16 |url=https://www.airspace-review.com/2023/12/04/kasau-rafale-pertama-akan-ditempatkan-di-skadron-udara-12-berikutnya-di-skadron-udara-1-dan-skadron-udara-16/ |access-date=2024-02-07 |website=Airspace Review}}{{Cite web |last=Ramdhani |first=Jabbar |title=RI Resmi Teken Kontrak Beli 42 Jet Tempur Dassault Rafale dari Prancis |url=https://news.detik.com/berita/d-7132333/ri-resmi-teken-kontrak-beli-42-jet-tempur-dassault-rafale-dari-prancis |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=detiknews |language=id-ID}}
• 6th Air Wing – Roesmin Nurjadin AFB, Pekanbaru
• 12th Air Squadron (Black Panther)
• 16th Air Squadron (Rydder)
• 7th Air Wing – Supadio AFB, Pontianak
• 1st Air Squadron (Equatorial Eagles)

;{{Flag|Serbia}}

• Serbian Air Force and Air Defence – 12 aircraft ordered in 2024 with deliveries to be completed by 2029, reported to be the F4 version.{{Cite web |date=2024-08-30 |title=Avions de combat Rafale en Serbie: les détails d'un contrat géostratégique |trans-title=Rafale fighter jets in Serbia: details of a geostrategic contract |url=https://air-cosmos.com/article/avions-de-combat-rafale-en-serbie-les-details-d-un-contrat-geostrategique-69261 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240906075352/https://air-cosmos.com/article/avions-de-combat-rafale-en-serbie-les-details-d-un-contrat-geostrategique-69261 |archive-date=2024-09-06 |access-date=2024-12-16 |website=Air et Cosmos |language=fr}}{{cite news |title=France, Serbia sign Rafale fighter jet deal during Macron visit |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2024/08/29/france-serbia-sign-rafale-fighter-jet-deal-during-macron-visit_6723515_4.html |access-date=11 September 2024 |work=Le Monde |date=29 August 2024 |language=en}}

• On 6 December 2007, a French Air Force twin-seat Rafale crashed during a training flight. The pilot, who suffered from spatial disorientation, died in the accident.{{cite web |url=http://www.rtl.fr/actualites/article/l-accident-du-rafale-du-a-une-desorientation-spatiale-du-pilote-30052|title=L'accident du Rafale dû à une "désorientation spatiale" du pilote|trans-title=The Rafale accident due to the pilot's 'spatial disorientation' |language=fr|work=RTL|date=10 January 2008|access-date=15 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130623064012/http://www.rtl.fr/actualites/article/l-accident-du-rafale-du-a-une-desorientation-spatiale-du-pilote-30052 |archive-date=23 June 2013}}
• On 24 September 2009, after unarmed test flights, two French Navy Rafales returning to the aircraft carrier {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle|R91|2}}, collided in mid-air about {{convert|30|km}} from the town of Perpignan in southwest France. One test pilot, identified as François Duflot, died in the accident, while the other was rescued.{{cite news |last= Hoyle |first= Craig |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/french-navy-locates-pilots-body-with-crashed-rafale-333007/ |title=Aviation News: French navy locates pilot's body with crashed Rafale|newspaper=Flightglobal|date=1 October 2009 |access-date= 15 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130411202244/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/french-navy-locates-pilots-body-with-crashed-rafale-333007/ |archive-date= 11 April 2013}}
• On 28 November 2010, a Rafale from the carrier Charles de Gaulle crashed in the Arabian Sea. This aircraft was supporting Allied operations in Afghanistan. The pilot ejected safely and was rescued by a rescue helicopter from the carrier. Later reports said the engines stopped after being starved of fuel due to confusion by the pilot in switching fuel tanks.{{cite news |url= http://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/20101128trib000576964/accident-de-rafale-au-large-du-pakistan.html |title= Accident de Rafale au large du Pakistan|trans-title=Rafale accident by Pakistan's shores |newspaper= La Tribune|language= French |date= 28 November 2010|access-date=1 June 2022}}
• On 2 July 2012, during a joint exercise, a Rafale from the carrier Charles de Gaulle plunged into the Mediterranean Sea. The pilot ejected safely and was recovered by an American search and rescue helicopter from the carrier {{USS|Dwight D. Eisenhower|CVN-69|6}}.{{cite news |last= Quisnel |first= Jean |url= http://www.lepoint.fr/editos-du-point/jean-guisnel/crash-d-un-rafale-en-mediterranee-02-07-2012-1480056_53.php |title= Crash d'un Rafale en Méditerranée |trans-title=A Rafale's crash in the Mediterranean |language=French|newspaper=Le Point|date=2 July 2012|access-date=1 June 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131023060846/http://www.lepoint.fr/editos-du-point/jean-guisnel/crash-d-un-rafale-en-mediterranee-02-07-2012-1480056_53.php |archive-date= 23 October 2013}}
• On 14 August 2024, two French Rafale B two-seaters collided over Colombey-les-Belles. While one pilot had ejected before crashing into the ground, the trainee and instructor of the second aircraft were reported missing. Both aircraft were based in Saint-Dizier – Robinson Air Base. By 15 August, the death of the missing pilots was announced.{{Cite web |title=2 French Rafale Jets Collide Mid-Air, Instructor, Pilot Missing |url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/2-french-rafale-jets-collide-mid-air-instructor-pilot-missing-6337097 |access-date=2024-08-14 |website=NDTV.com |language=en}}{{Cite news |agency=Agence France-Presse |date=2024-08-14 |title=Two fighter jet pilots die in France after mid-air crash |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/aug/15/rafale-fighter-jets-crash-franch-two-pilots-dead-mid-air-collision |access-date=2024-08-15 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}

File:Dassault Rafale version.svg

File:Aasm5.jpg

File:MICA P1220883.jpg

{{Aircraft specs

| ref = Dassault Aviation,{{cite web |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/specifications-and-performance-data/ |title=Specifications and performance data |publisher=Dassault Aviation |access-date=18 June 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131214083449/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/specifications-and-performance-data/ |archive-date= 14 December 2013 |url-status=live}} Superfighters,Williams 2002, p. 112. French Navy,{{cite web |url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/marine/aeronefs/rafale-marine |title=Rafale M |work=French Navy |language=fr |access-date=15 June 2025 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131220114753/http://www.defense.gouv.fr/marine/decouverte/equipements-moyens-materiel-militaire/aeronefs/rafale-marine |archive-date= 20 December 2013 |url-status=live}} International Directory of Military AircraftFrawley 2002, p. 69.

| prime units? = met

| crew = 1 or 2

| length m = 15.27

| length note =

| span m = 10.90

| span note =

| height m = 5.34

| height note =

| wing area sqm = 45.7

| wing area note =

| aspect ratio =

| airfoil =

| empty weight kg = 10300

| empty weight note = (B)

::::{{cvt|9850|kg}} (C)

::::{{cvt|10600|kg}} (M)

| gross weight kg = 15000

| gross weight note =

| max takeoff weight kg = 24500

| max takeoff weight note =

| fuel capacity = {{cvt|4700|kg|0}} internal for single-seater (C); {{cvt|4400|kg|0}} for two-seater (B)

• With external tanks: {{cvt|4700|kg|0}} internal and {{cvt|6700|kg|0}} external
• Maximum fuel: (C): {{cvt|16550|L|USgal impgal}} ({{cvt|5750|L|USgal impgal}} internal + {{cvt|2300|L|USgal impgal}} in 2x conformal tanks{{cite journal |url=https://omnirole-rafale.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Fox-3-02.pdf|title=Conformal Fuel Tanks: the latest innovation tested on Rafale|journal=Fox Three |publisher=Rafale International|volume=02|date=|page=1|access-date=2025-05-21}}

| more general =

| eng1 number = 2

| eng1 name = Snecma M88-4e

| eng1 type = turbofans

| eng1 kw =

| eng1 hp =

| eng1 shp =

| eng1 kn = 50.04

| eng1 note = {{cite web |url=http://www.safran-aircraft-engines.com/military-engines/training-and-combat-aircraft/m88 |title=M88 |date=28 May 2015 |access-date=27 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170721100533/https://www.safran-aircraft-engines.com/military-engines/training-and-combat-aircraft/m88 |archive-date=21 July 2017 |url-status=live}}

| power original =

| thrust original =

| eng1 kn-ab = 75

| max speed kmh = 1912

| max speed note = / Mach 1.8{{cite web |url=https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/specifications-and-performance-data/|title=Rafale specifications and performance data |website= Dassault Aviation, a major player to aeronautics}} at high altitude

:::: {{cvt|1390|km/h|mph kn|disp=semicolon}} / Mach 1.1 at low altitude

• Supercruise: on 4 missiles and a 1250-liter belly droptank{{cite web |url=http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_8.pdf |title= Fox Three |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071122095016/http://www.dassault-aviation.com/fileadmin/user_upload/redacteur/AUTRES_DOCS/Fox_three/Fox_Three_nr_8.pdf |work= Dassault Aviation |url-status=dead |archive-date=2007-11-22|date=22 November 2007}}
• Mach 1.4 supercruise on Rafale M (navy) version with 6 MICA air-to-air missiles{{cite web |date=2011-06-20 |title=Fiche Rafale le-Bourget 2011 |url=http://rafalefan.e-monsite.com/medias/files/fiche-rafale-le-bourget-2011.jpg |access-date=2021-04-18}}

| cruise speed kmh =

| cruise speed note =

| stall speed kmh =

| stall speed note =

| never exceed speed kmh =

| never exceed speed note =

| minimum control speed kmh =

| minimum control speed note =

| range km =

| range note =

| combat range km = 1850

| combat range note = on penetration mission with three tanks (5,700 L combined)

| ferry range km = 3700

| ferry range note = with 3 drop tanks

| endurance =

| ceiling m = 15835

| ceiling note =

| g limits = +9 −3.6 (+11 in emergencies){{cite web |url=http://www.rafalesolodisplay.com/archives-2/la-serie-2013/ |title=Rafale Solo display-Display-Good weather |work=Rafale Solo Display |date=1 January 2013 |access-date=7 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141107162139/http://www.rafalesolodisplay.com/archives-2/la-serie-2013/ |archive-date=7 November 2014 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url=http://www.rafalefan.e-monsite.com/medias/files/fiche-rafale-le-bourget-2011.jpg |title=Rafale Bourget Display 2011 |date=2011 |access-date=6 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019180910/http://rafalefan.e-monsite.com/medias/files/fiche-rafale-le-bourget-2011.jpg |archive-date=19 October 2017 |url-status=live}}

| g limits note =

| roll rate =

| climb rate ms = 304.8

| climb rate note =

| time to altitude =

| wing loading kg/m2 = 328

| wing loading note =

| fuel consumption kg/km =

| power/mass =

| thrust/weight = 1.57 (empty weight), version B

| more performance =

| guns = 1× {{convert|30|mm|abbr=on}} GIAT 30/M791 autocannon with 125 rounds

| hardpoints = 14 External hardpoints for Air and Space Force versions (Rafale B/C), 13 for Navy version (Rafale M)

| hardpoint capacity = {{convert|9500|kg|abbr=on}} external fuel and ordnance

| hardpoint missiles =

• Air-to-air:
• MICA EM and IR (most widely used air-to-air missiles on Rafale; MICA-EM and MICA-IR both used for short-range and also for medium-range BVR combat)
• Meteor
• Magic II
• Air-to-surface:
• MBDA Apache
• MBDA Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG
• AASM-Hammer (SBU-38/54/64)
• GBU-12 Paveway II, GBU-16 Paveway II, GBU-22 Paveway III, GBU-24 Paveway III, GBU-49 Enhanced Paveway II
• AS-30L
• Mark 82{{cite news |url= http://www.defense.gouv.fr/fre/air/actus-air/une-nouvelle-capacite-pour-le-rafale |website= defense.gouv.fr |title= New capability for the Rafale |date= 27 March 2017 |language= fr |access-date= 7 April 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171019180209/http://www.defense.gouv.fr/fre/air/actus-air/une-nouvelle-capacite-pour-le-rafale |archive-date= 19 October 2017 |url-status=live}}
• MBDA AM 39-Exocet air-launched anti-ship missile (one AM 39-Exocet at the central under-fuselage hardpoint){{Cite web|url=https://omnirole-rafale.com/armement/specifiques/|title=RAFALE : Emports spécifiques}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.mbda-systems.com/products/deep-strike/exocet-family/exocet-am39|title=EXOCET AM39 | MBDA|website=www.mbda-systems.com}}
• Nuclear Deterrence:
• ASMP-A nuclear missile
• ASN4G hypersonic nuclear missile (in development)

| hardpoint other =

• Thales Damocles targeting pod
• Thales AREOS (Airborne Recce Observation System) reconnaissance pod{{cite web |url=https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/content/areos-airborne-reconnaissance-electro-optical-system|title=AREOS : Airborne Reconnaissance Electro Optical System |publisher=Thales Group|access-date=19 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019072039/https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/content/areos-airborne-reconnaissance-electro-optical-system |archive-date=19 October 2013 |url-status=dead}}
• Thales TALIOS multi-function targeting pod{{cite web |url=https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/worldwide/defence/talios-0|title=TALIOS |publisher=Thales Group|access-date=19 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923185208/https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/worldwide/defence/talios-0 |archive-date=23 September 2015 |url-status=live}}
• Up to 5 drop tanks
• Buddy–buddy refueling pod

| avionics = * Thales RBE2-AA AESA radar

• Thales SPECTRA Electronic Warfare (EW) system
• Thales/SAGEM Optronique Secteur Frontal (OSF) Infrared search and track (IRST) system

}}

{{Portal|Aviation}}{{aircontent

|see also=

• Fourth-generation jet fighter

|related=

|lists=

• List of fighter aircraft
• List of military aircraft of France

|similar aircraft=* Shenyang J-15

• Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
• Mikoyan MiG-29K
• HAL TEDBF}}

{{Reflist|group=N}}

{{reflist}}

{{Refbegin|40em}}

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• {{cite journal|last=Cook|first=Nick|title=Rafale sets new standards in digital assembly |journal=Interavia Business & Technology |publisher=Aerospace Media Publishing|pages=22–24|date=1 November 1997|issn=0983-1592}}
• {{cite book |editor-last=Eden |editor-first=Paul |title=The Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft |location= London |publisher= Amber Books |year= 2004 |isbn= 978-1-904687-84-9}}
• {{cite journal|last=Fiszer|first=Michal|title=Storm warning: the Dassault Rafale is poised to become Europe's premier fighter-bomber |journal=Journal of Electronic Defense |publisher=Association of Old Crows|volume=28|issue=6|pages=40–51|issn=0192-429X|date=1 June 2005}}
• {{cite book |editor-last= Forsberg |editor-first= Randall |title= The Arms Production Dilemma: Contraction and Restraint in the World Combat Aircraft Industry |location= Cambridge, MA |publisher= MIT Press |year= 1994 |isbn= 978-0-262-56085-6 |url-access= registration |url= https://archive.org/details/armsproductiondi0000fors}}
• {{cite book |last= Frawley |first= Gerard |title=The International Directory of Military Aircraft |location=Fyshwick, AU |publisher= Aerospace Publications |year=2002 |isbn= 978-1-875671-55-7}}
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• {{Cite journal|last=Lenorovitz|first=Jeffrey|author-mask=3|title=Rafale Debut Opens Way for Flight Test Program|journal=Aviation Week & Space Technology|volume=133|issue=19|location=New York|publisher=McGraw-Hill|date=5 November 1990|pages=20–22|issn=0005-2175}}
• {{Cite book|last1=Lorell|first1=Mark|last2=Hoffman|first2=Donna|title=The Use of Prototypes in Selected Foreign Fighter Aircraft Development Programs – Rafale, EAP, Lavi, and Gripen|year=1989|publisher=RAND Corporation|isbn=0-8330-0970-2}}
• {{cite journal |last= MacKenzie |first= Christina |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2002/2002%20-%200818.html |title=Rafale Readies |journal= Flight International |location=London |publisher=Reed Business Information |issue=4824 |volume=161 |pages=36–37 |date= 19–25 March 2002 |issn= 0015-3710 |access-date=19 October 2013}}
• {{cite book |last= Richardson |first= Doug |title=Stealth Warplanes |location=Grand Rapids, MI |publisher=Zenith Imprint |year=2001 |isbn= 978-0-7603-1051-9}}
• {{cite journal |last= Sedbon |first= Gilbert |title=Rafale partners sought formally |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1986/1986%20-%200253.html |journal= Flight International |location=London |publisher=Reed Business Information |issue=3996 |volume= 129 |page= 11 |date= 26 January – 1 February 1986 |issn=0015-3710 |access-date= 13 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130411202252/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1986/1986%20-%200253.html |archive-date=11 April 2013}}
• {{cite journal |last= Sedbon |first= Gilbert |author-mask= 3 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1986/1986%20-%201574.html |title= Dassault flies Rafale demonstrator |journal=Flight International |location=London |publisher=Reed Business Information |issue=4019 |volume=130 |page=4 |date=6–12 July 1986 |issn= 0015-3710 |access-date= 12 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130411202204/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1986/1986%20-%201574.html |archive-date= 11 April 2013}}
• {{cite journal |last= Sedbon |first= Gilbert |author-mask= 3 |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1988/1988%20-%200422.html |title= Crouzet controls by voice |journal=Flight International |location=London |publisher=Reed Business Information |issue= 4101 |volume=133 |pages= 30–31 |date= 14–20 February 1988 |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=19 October 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130827072421/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1988/1988%20-%200422.html |archive-date=27 August 2013}}
• {{cite journal |last1=Sedbon |first1=Gilbert |author-mask= 3 |last2=Norris |first2=Guy |title=Power to Progress |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%200941.html |date=10–16 April 1991 |journal= Flight International |location=London |publisher=Reed Business Information |issue=4262 |volume=139 |pages=32–36 |issn= 0015-3710 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100113154346/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%200941.html |archive-date=13 January 2010}}
• {{Cite journal|last=Sparaco|first=Pierre|title=France Seeks Early Export Orders|journal=Aviation Week & Space Technology|volume=145|issue=21|location=New York|publisher=McGraw-Hill|date=18 November 1996|page=29|issn=0005-2175}}
• {{cite book |editor-last= Spick |editor-first= Mike |title= The Great Book of Modern Warplanes |location= St. Paul, MN |publisher= MBI Publishing |year= 2000 |isbn= 978-1-84065-156-0 |url-access= registration |url= https://archive.org/details/greatbookofmoder0000spic}}
• {{Cite journal|last1=Svitak|first1=Amy|first2=Caroline|last2=Bruneau|title=Fasionably Late|journal=Aviation Week & Space Technology|volume=177|issue=11|location=New York|publisher=McGraw-Hill|date=8–21 June 2015|pages=59–60|issn=0005-2175}}
• {{cite journal |author=Sweetman, Bill |title=Killer angels: France's Rafale has fire, but will glory remain a mirage? |journal=Journal of Electronic Defense |publisher=Association of Old Crows |volume=25|issue=11|pages=44–48|issn=0192-429X |date=1 November 2002}}
• {{cite book |editor-last= Williams |editor-first= Mel |chapter= Dassault Rafale |title= Superfighters, The Next Generation of Combat Aircraft |location= London |publisher= AIRtime Publishing|year=2002 |isbn=978-1-880588-53-6}}
• {{cite book |last= Wertheim |first= Eric |title= Naval Institute Guide to Combat Fleets of the World: Their Ships, Aircraft, and Systems |location= Annapolis, MD |publisher=Naval Institute Press |year=2007 |isbn= 978-1-59114-955-2}}

{{refend}}

{{Commons}}

• {{Citation |url= http://www.dassault-aviation.com/en/defense/rafale/introduction |publisher= Dassault Aviation |title= Rafale |type= official page}}
• {{Citation |url= http://www.defense.gouv.fr/air |title= Armée de l'Air |date= 10 March 2022 |type= official page |publisher= The French Air Force |language= fr}}

{{Dassault aircraft}}

{{Authority control}}

Rafale

Category:Canard aircraft

Category:Carrier-based aircraft

Category:Delta-wing aircraft

Category:1980s French fighter aircraft

Category:Twinjets

Category:Relaxed-stability aircraft

Category:Aircraft first flown in 1986

Category:4.5-generation jet fighters