France Officially Delivers Rafale Fighter Jets to the UAE
The French government delivered the first of 80 Rafale jets purchased by the UAE this week, in a deal that highlights the competition between France and the U.S. for influence in the Persian Gulf
At a ceremonial event held at Dassault’s facilities in Istres, southern France, Dassault’s president and French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu handed over a Rafale F-4 fighter jet, tail number 1101, to UAE Defense Minister Mohammed bin Mubarak Al-Mazrouei. This marks a significant milestone in the agreement between the two nations, which includes the purchase of 80 Rafale fighter jets and 12 ‘Caracal’ helicopters for €16 billion.
According to a report by Janes, the UAE defense minister did not specify how many aircraft would be delivered as part of the first batch, though it is commonly estimated to be between four and six jets. Meanwhile, Air Force Tech reported that the deal carries strategic importance, strengthening the UAE Air Force and advancing its technological capabilities.
Currently, the new aircraft are undergoing a series of tests at Dassault’s facilities before their final handover to the UAE Air Force. According to the plan, all 80 jets will be delivered by 2026. The UAE defense minister emphasized that the country is focused on acquiring cutting-edge weapons systems and equipment to address future security challenges and technological shifts that will impact national defense.
Experts see this deal as a reflection of the growing competition between France and the U.S. for influence in the Persian Gulf, particularly amid reports that negotiations between Washington and Abu Dhabi over the purchase of F-35 stealth fighters have reached an impasse. In this context, France is solidifying its position as a key defense partner for the UAE, providing advanced equipment while preserving the country’s technological and military autonomy.
The large-scale deal underscores the UAE’s continued military buildup in preparation for future threats, investing in next-generation fighter aircraft. The latest delivery represents another step in this trend and highlights the strengthening defense ties between Paris and Abu Dhabi.
