The F3-standard certification achieved by the Rafale on 1 July 2008 marked the end of the development of the latest French fighter aircraft, which made its maiden flight more than 20 years ago. Despite bitter criticism, the Rafale demonstrated its inherent qualities and well-suited technological options during its first operational engagements, illustrating in many ways that it fully lives up to its fourth-generation multi-purpose fighter status. As the first aircraft was intended from its design to operate from land or aircraft carriers, it epitomizes French know-how and as such stands as an instrument of sovereignty.
The Rafale, a Multi-Purpose Aircraft
Leveraging the third dimension requires mastering leading-edge technology. The Rafale weapon system is an advanced technology asset that incorporates expertise from various fields whose development and sustainability provide a robust national industrial base. This programme allows France to compete on an equal footing with its main Western partners in the operational and technological fields, and to maintain supremacy over its potential rivals. It helps safeguard French airspace and ensure the credibility of the airborne deterrent and France’s ability to intervene in any theatre of operations with complete freedom, from land or sea. As a result, this programme contributes to securing France an influential position among the major aeronautical powers.
Together with the Rafale, France has initiated major changes similar to those already introduced by most of the influential nations in the world. In Europe, the Royal Air Force together with the Royal Navy should ultimately have an all-Eurofighter (target: 232) and Joint Strike Fighter (target: 138) fleet, enabling them to rank high in terms of quality. The Luftwaffe air combat fleet will be equipped with upgraded Tornados (target: 85) and Eurofighters (target: 180). Upgrading European air assets will make it possible to provide sensible responses to the increasing number of modern fighter aircraft stationed in many areas of interest where France and its allies are currently committed or likely to get involved.
Rafale, an Operational Asset
On national territory, the Rafale contributes to airspace security as part of the permanent security level. Its capabilities enable it to play a full part in protecting national airspace and in providing support in air assistance missions. It has also been deployed in specific operations to cover highly sensitive events.
Il reste 85 % de l'article à lire
