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
-
![October crewed air review: Israel’s Apache deal bets on crewed aviation in an uncrewed age]()
October crewed air review: Israel’s Apache deal bets on crewed aviation in an uncrewed age
Israel’s $1 billion Apache helicopter order highlights the continued demand for crewed attack aviation, while growing integration with uncrewed systems could shape future modernisation and procurement decisions.
-
![Connecting the layers: how networks can secure the future of European air defence]()
Connecting the layers: how networks can secure the future of European air defence
The rise of drones has reshaped the threat landscape for all European militaries. For industry, future defensive strategies must carefully balance a mix of passive and active measures to address the evolving danger, based around a highly integrated and responsive network of sensors and effectors.
-
![October drone digest: France and Lithuania advance loitering munition procurements as global spending surges]()
October drone digest: France and Lithuania advance loitering munition procurements as global spending surges
Recent procurement developments in France and Lithuania highlight the growing demand for loitering munitions, with global annual spending forecast to increase nearly 50-fold between 2020 and 2029.
