Dassault rolls out first Emirati Rafale

The first deliveries to the UAE Air Force and Air Defence are scheduled for end of 2026.

In the midst of geopolitical uncertainties and warfares, group CEO, Eric Trappier told Arabian Aerospace that Dassault Aviation is ready to support defence capabilities of France, Europe and other countries.

Despite supply chain challenges, which will persist for some time, Dassault could supply 30 more Rafale jets if needed. “We have a rich legacy, proven industrial expertise and a highly-skilled labour force, which gives us a good manoeuvring margin to increase the production rate of the Rafale,” he said.

"We plan to deliver three Rafales per month next year, and four as from 2028-29", announced the group's CEO. He added that he has "heard the call" of president Emmanuel Macron who has shown his willingness to "increase and accelerate Rafale orders" in view of the geopolitical context.

Dassault Aviation plans to ramp up production rapidly and is "studying the possibility" of delivering up to five Rafales per month as requested by the French president.     

He also told Arabian Aerospace that the MENA region represents "an important market with interesting opportunities", including Saudi Arabia, a much-coveted kingdom with an ambitious development and investment plan.

“We are open to discussions. There are interesting prospects in the Middle East. We have established good commercial links with non-aligned countries like Egypt, our first Rafale export. Several commercial processes are currently under way, like with India for the supply of 26 Rafale Marine”, added Trappier.

The UAE has ordered 80 Rafale jets in the largest-ever export contract for the French combat aircraft in 2021. They will be delivered in the F4 configuration, with additional weapon integrations, new modes for the aircraft’s RBE2 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and the Spectra electronic warfare system. Once in service, the Rafale will replace the UAE Air Force’s Mirage 2000-9 fleet.

Dassault's Rafale is powered by two M88 engines designed, developed and produced by Safran Aircraft Engines. The combat fighter has also enhanced its offensive capabilities with the integration of the 1,000 kg AASM, developed by Safran Electronics and Defence under the name Hammer.

According to the French Group, the Rafale will “enhance its [the UAE’s] influence as a major international power.” Deliveries will run through to 2031.

The Rafale has made an interesting breakthrough a decade ago in other MENA countries with orders from Egypt (24 in 2015 and 31 in 2021) and Qatar (24 in 2015 and 12 in 2017).

There are still 220 Rafale jets to be delivered under the France and export orders (as of 31/12/2024). This production load gives Dassault about 10 years visibility.

The Rafale will no doubt touch new skies during Dubai Airshow 2025 set to redefine the boundaries of aviation and defence.