The Rafale: From the “unsaleable” plane to international success.
The history of the Rafale, the flagship of the French military aeronautical industry, is a true epic marked by challenges, controversies and ultimately resounding success. Born in the 1980s, this versatile fighter experienced a tumultuous journey before establishing itself as one of the most efficient combat aircraft in the world.
Read also:
The beautiful story of the Rafale, which began as unsaleable and which now exceeds 500 sales
The Rafale adventure began at the end of the 1970s, when France was looking to replace its Mirage. Initially envisaged as a European project, the program transformed into a purely French initiative in 1985, after the failure of negotiations with European partners. On July 3, 1986, the first Rafale prototype made its maiden flight in Istres, marking the start of a new era for French military aviation. The development of the Rafale extends over several years, punctuated by technical and financial challenges. Designed to be versatile, the aircraft is capable of carrying out air defense, reconnaissance, air-to-ground strike and even nuclear deterrence missions, alone replacing seven different types of aircraft within the French forces.
The whole world envies the flagship of the French Navy which is not its aircraft carrier but an exceptional helicopter carrier: the Mistral
Entry into service and first difficulties
Despite the initial ambition of entering service in 1996, the Rafale only joined the ranks of the French Navy in 2004, followed by the Air Force in 2006. This long gestation fuels criticism of the delays and additional program costs. For almost a decade, the Rafale struggled to find export customers, which earned it the unflattering nickname of “unsaleable” aircraft.
The turning point in export
The international breakthrough came in 2015, marking the start of a series of commercial successes. Egypt, Qatar, India, Greece, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and recently Serbia are joining the club of Rafale users. These contracts propel Dassault Aviation's order book to record levels.
An undeniable commercial success
To date, Dassault Aviation has sold no fewer than 507 Rafale aircraft, including 273 for export. This impressive figure already exceeds the total sales of the Mirage 2000 (281 aircraft) and is approaching those of the Mirage F1 (450 units). The “contract of the century” signed with the United Arab Emirates in 2021 for 80 aircraft consolidates the Rafale’s position on the international market.
How many euros did Rafale sales actually generate?
Dassault Aviation sold 507 Rafale, we can estimate the revenue generated as follows:
- Rafale B (two-seater): 74 million euros
- Rafale C (single-seater): 68.8 million euros
- Rafale M (marine) : 79 millions d’euros
Taking an approximate average of 74 million euros per Rafale, we can estimate the revenue generated: 507 Rafale × 74 million euros = 37.518 billion euros. It is important to note that this estimate is simplified and does not take into account several factors:
- Price variations depending on specific contracts and purchasing countries.
- Additional equipment, support, training and munitions often included in contracts.
- Potential discounts for large quantity orders.
- Price fluctuations over time since the start of the Rafale program.
Future prospects for the Rafale
The future of the Rafale looks promising. The potential export market is estimated at 324 aircraft by 2035. Negotiations are underway with several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Peru and Colombia. To meet this growing demand, Dassault Aviation plans to increase its production rate to three aircraft per month from 2025, with the ambition of reaching four per month.
The best American stealth fighter planes will be powerless against this new high-tech Chinese gem: the WZ-9 drone
The Rafale, which went from being an “unsaleable” aircraft to becoming a star of combat aircraft, illustrates the resilience and excellence of the French aeronautical industry. Its commercial success provides Dassault Aviation with visibility over the next ten years, consolidating its position against its competitors, notably the American F-35. The Rafale epic demonstrates that with perseverance and innovation, an ambitious project can overcome initial obstacles to establish itself on the international scene.
Sources :
- https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/defense/dassault-va-bientot-passer-la-barre-des-500-rafale-vendus-dont-72-pour-la-version-marine
- https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/air-defense/video-la-folle-histoire-du-rafale-lavion-invendable-devenu-un-blockbuster-2103287
Post Views: 4
As a young independent media, secret-defense.org needs your help. Support us by following and bookmarking us on Google News. THANKS !
Follow us on Google News
