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F4 Rafale Fighter Jet: A Milestone for UAE Military Modernization

F4 Rafale Fighter Jet: A Milestone for UAE Military Modernization
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F4 Rafale Fighter Jet: A Milestone for UAE Military Modernization

Dassault Aviation has officially rolled out the first F4 Rafale fighter jet designated for the United Arab Emirates, marking a pivotal moment in the UAE’s military modernization efforts. This unveiling is a significant milestone following the 2021 agreement between the UAE and the French manufacturer. The event was graced by key figures, including Dassault’s CEO Éric Trappier, French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu, and UAE Defense Affairs Minister Mohamed bin Mubarak Fadel Al Mazrouei. The introduction of the F4 Rafale is expected to bolster Abu Dhabi’s air combat capabilities, enhancing its defense infrastructure.

The F4 Rafale jet is set to complement the UAE’s current fleet of Mirage 2000 aircraft and the anticipated arrival of US-made F-35 fighters. In a landmark deal struck in December 2021, the UAE committed to purchasing 80 Rafale jets from Dassault for a staggering 14 billion euros (approximately $14.6 billion). This agreement is part of a broader partnership, with the UAE also engaging in several other lucrative contracts with France, further solidifying their defense ties. Initial deliveries of these advanced fighter jets are projected to commence in 2027.

Technological Advancements and Enhanced Capabilities

The launch of the F4 Rafale underscores the swift progress of the agreement, largely attributed to the collaborative efforts between French and Emirati engineers. This latest variant of the Rafale builds upon its predecessor’s legacy, incorporating cutting-edge avionics, sophisticated radar systems, and an extended operational range. Notably, the F4 variant enhances stealth capabilities, which significantly improves its survival rate against enemy radar and detection systems.

Renowned for its versatility, the Rafale is capable of executing a range of missions, including air-to-air and air-to-ground attacks, reconnaissance, and even nuclear deterrence if necessary. The F4 fighter jet for the UAE is outfitted with advanced networking and weapon systems, aimed at modernizing the UAE’s aerial combat power. Furthermore, Dassault is in the process of developing an upgraded F4.1 model, which is expected to feature additional enhancements such as helmet-mounted sights, improved fire control systems, and advanced passive threat detection capabilities.

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