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.