First flight in 1986
The Rafale is the only existing all-purpose fighter aircraft in the world, able to perform simultaneously air superiority, defense, reconnaissance and surface attack missions during a single flight.
First French Navy squadron operational in 2004
First Rafale squadron for the French Air Force in 2006
“Combat Proven” Aircraft
Rafale with the F3 standard operational since 2010.
Data Sheet
Dimensions
| Wing span test test test | 10,9 m |
| Length | 15,30 m |
| Height | 5,30 m |
Weight
| Overall empty weight | 10 t (22,000 lbs) class |
| Max. take-off weight | 24.5 t (54,000 lbs) |
| Fuel (internal) | 4.7 t (10,300 lbs) |
| Fuel (external) | up to 6.7 t (14,700 lbs) |
| External load | 9.5 t (21,000 lbs) |
Performances
| Max. thrust | 2 x 7.5 tons |
| Limit load factors | -3.2g / +9g |
| Max. speed | M = 1.8 / 750 kt |
| Approach speed | less than 120 kt |
| Landing ground run | 450m (1,500 ft) without drag-chute |
| Service ceiling | 50.000ft |
Store stations
| Total | 14 |
| Heavy-wet | 5 |
