UAE accepts first batch of F4 Rafale fighter jets
The deal for F4 Rafale jets builds on the UAE’s plans to develop its air force and air defence systems capabilities. (Photo: UAE MoD)
The aircraft were accepted during a ceremony on the 29 January and will stay at Dassault’s Flight Test Centre, with deliveries scheduled for the end of 2026.
The UAE Ministry of Defence has announced the inauguration of its first batch of F4 Rafale fighter jets from Dassault in what it calls a “historic deal” at a ceremony on the 29 January.
Dassault was awarded the US$16.6 billion contract to supply 80 F4 Rafale aircraft in December 2021. The aircraft are intended to replace the Air Force’s older Dassault Mirage 2000-9 fighters and augment the rest of its fleet.
UAE Armed Forces Supreme Commander President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said: “The strategy of the Armed Forces focuses on the thoughtful acquisition of the latest weapons and equipment that are in line with the variables of future wars and technological and quality developments, which enhances the comprehensive combat efficiency of the country's national defence system.”
Related Articles
Dassault captures mega Rafale order from UAE
While the number of aircraft in the first batch was not disclosed, according to Dassault, this first jet would remain at its Flight Test centre to perform flight tests ahead of the first deliveries to the UAE Air Force, which are scheduled for the end of 2026.
The F4 standard, according to the French Directorate General of Armament (DGA), includes improvements to Rafale's fire protection and avoidance system, frontal optronics, TALIOS long-range airborne targeting pod and the RBE2 electronic scanning radar.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Anduril UK and GKN Aerospace collaborate on British Army ACP bid]()
Anduril UK and GKN Aerospace collaborate on British Army ACP bid
The pair will submit their demonstrator concept for Project Nyx, a development project for the British Army’s Land Autonomous Collaborative Platform.
-
![US Army command’s Picatinny CLIK common lethal drone interface makes progress]()
US Army command’s Picatinny CLIK common lethal drone interface makes progress
The Picatinny Common Lethality Integration Kit is designed to overcome the issue of unique integration methods between lethal payloads and drones as well as avoiding problematic acquisition conditions created by vendor lock.
-
![Australia invests extra A$1.4 billion in MQ-28A Ghost Bat after successful missile fire test]()
Australia invests extra A$1.4 billion in MQ-28A Ghost Bat after successful missile fire test
The investment includes new contracts for six MQ-28A Ghost Bat aircraft, as well as provisional funds to invest in the development of a Block 3 prototype.
-
![Northrop Grumman to fly new Project Talon CCA by late 2026]()
Northrop Grumman to fly new Project Talon CCA by late 2026
The newly unveiled collaborative combat aircraft looks to strike a balance between capability and cost-effectiveness, according to the company.
-
![MBDA and Lockheed move closer to F-35A Meteor flight tests]()
MBDA and Lockheed move closer to F-35A Meteor flight tests
Following the completion of successful ground tests, one more exercise remains before flight testing can begin.
