In a landmark deal with France’s Dassault Aviation, the UAE Ministry of Defence has inaugurated its first Rafale fighter jet, marking a major step in modernizing its military capabilities. The acquisition includes 80 advanced multirole jets designed to enhance the UAE Air Force’s operational strength.
The UAE Ministry of Defence has officially inaugurated its first Dassault Rafale fighter jet, marking a significant enhancement in the country’s military capabilities. This event is part of an initial delivery that bolsters the UAE Armed Forces’ defence and combat capabilities, solidifying the country’s commitment to modernising its military fleet.
The Rafale is one of the world’s most advanced multirole combat aircraft, known for its versatility in executing a wide range of missions, from air-to-air combat to precision strikes on land and sea targets. This acquisition is part of a historic deal signed with France’s Dassault Aviation, strengthening the longstanding strategic partnership between the UAE and France.
The deal forms a central component of the UAE’s broader defence modernization strategy, aimed at ensuring the country’s armed forces remain at the forefront of military advancements. This includes upgrading the Air Force with state-of-the-art equipment designed to address emerging security challenges both regionally and globally.
“Our strategy focuses on acquiring the most advanced weaponry and systems that align with the evolving nature of modern warfare and technological advancements.” – Mohamed bin Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs.
The launch ceremony, held in Paris, was attended by a number of high-ranking officials. Mohamed bin Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei, the UAE Minister of State for Defence Affairs, was joined by French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, senior representatives from both the UAE and France, and a delegation of military officers.
During the event, Al Mazrouei praised the transformative leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, highlighting how the military has become one of the most capable in the region. “Our strategy focuses on acquiring the most advanced weaponry and systems that align with the evolving nature of modern warfare and technological advancements, enhancing the overall combat efficiency of our national defense system,” he stated.
Brigadier General Pilot Mohamed Salem Ali Al Hameli of the UAE Air Force and Air Defence spoke about the Rafale’s proven track record in global military operations, noting that its acquisition would significantly enhance the UAE’s air force and air defense capabilities. He emphasized that the deal also includes a comprehensive training program to ensure that UAE pilots and technicians are highly prepared to operate and maintain the advanced jets at peak performance levels.
The Rafale’s advanced technologies make it an ideal asset for a variety of missions, such as precision strike capabilities and reconnaissance operations, providing the UAE with a qualitative boost to its air force’s operational range and efficiency.
Valued at €16.6 billion, the historic Rafale deal includes the production of 80 advanced fighter jets, each equipped with cutting-edge technologies designed for multi-role capabilities. This deal stands as one of the most significant defense agreements in the history of UAE-France relations, underscoring the growing military collaboration between the two nations.
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