Saudi Arabia is currently exploring cooperation with Dassault Aviation, potentially marking a significant turning point for the group, which has previously struggled to establish a presence in the country. Following difficulties with other international partners, including a blockage by Germany concerning the purchase of 48 Eurofighter Typhoon combat aircraft and Japan’s refusal to participate in the “Global Combat Air Programme,” the kingdom appears to be turning to France to meet its aerial defense needs.
The Dassault Rafale is a twin-engine, delta-wing, multi-role fighter aircraft made in France by Dassault Aviation. Its production officially began in December 1992 but was suspended due to political and economic uncertainties until January 1997, when production resumed following an agreement between the Ministry of Defense and Dassault Aviation. The Rafale entered service in 2000 with the French Air Force for land-based operations and the French Navy for carrier-based operations. To date, 120 Rafales have been officially ordered, with various models, including the Rafale B (two-seater for the Air Force), Rafale C (single-seater for the Air Force), and Rafale M (naval version).
The Rafale boasts impressive capabilities, featuring an advanced avionics suite with the SPECTRA electronic warfare system, providing robust protection against airborne and ground threats. It is equipped with the Thales RBE2 passive electronically scanned multi-mode radar, capable of early detection and tracking of multiple air targets, terrain-following, and high-resolution ground mapping. Its propulsion is provided by two M88-2 turbofan engines, designed for high reliability and reduced operating costs. The Rafale’s versatile armament includes MICA air-to-air missiles, AASM air-to-ground weapons, SCALP missiles, EXOCET anti-ship missiles, and an internal gun, allowing it to perform various combat roles simultaneously.