The Rafale is a twin-jet fighter aircraft able to operate from both an aircraft carrier and a shore base. The fully versatile Rafale is able to carry out all combat aviation missions: air superiority and air defense, close air support, in-depth strikes, reconnaissance, anti-ship strikes and nuclear deterrence. The Rafale entered service with the French Navy in 2004 and with the French Air Force in 2006. Rafale is one of the most seasoned fighter in the world. It has been combat proven since 2007. The export success of the Rafale has been vindicated. Rafale has now more export orders than French orders.
The Rafale, with its “Omnirole” capabilities, is the right answer to the capability approach selected by an increasing number of governments. It fully complies with the requirement to carry out the widest range of roles with the smallest number of aircraft.
Versatile and best in all categories of missions, the Rafale is a true “Force Multiplier”.
The Rafale has a wide range of high-tech sensors: RBE2 radar, Front Sector Optronics, SPECTRA, DAMOCLES pod, etc.
What makes the essential difference is the Rafale’s “multi-sensor data fusion” process running on data provided by all the sensors of the aircraft. In essence, the “multi-sensor data fusion” concept implemented into the Rafale allows the pilot to act as a true “tactical decision maker”, rather than being only a sensor operator.
The mission system of the Rafale has the potential to integrate a variety of current and future armaments.
The Rafale supportability and mission readiness claims are supported by the undisputed track record of the earlier generation of French fighters, such as the combat-proven Mirage 2000.
Dassault Aviation has used its pyrotechnics expertise to ensure crew safety. Using dedicated components, the company develops ejection seat ignition systems, interseat sequencing systems for twin-seat airplanes, and canopy break-away and cutting systems.