Paris, January 20 - The Dassault Rafale F5, often hailed as the Super Rafale, represents a bold evolution of France's premier multirole fighter jet, set to enter service around 2030. Building on the proven omnirole capabilities of earlier standards, the F5 integrates cutting-edge upgrades that emphasize enhanced performance, networked warfare, and survivability without relying on full stealth design. Instead, Dassault prioritizes a more powerful engine, advanced sensors, and seamless integration with unmanned systems to maintain dominance in contested environments. This approach underscores France's strategy to bridge fourth-generation excellence with emerging sixth-generation technologies while delivering a cost-effective, export-ready platform.
At the heart of the Super Dassault Rafale lies the upgraded M88 T-REX engine, delivering approximately 20% more thrust for superior speed, climb rate, and payload capacity. The aircraft features the next-generation RBE2 XG AESA radar, capable of detecting low-observable targets at extended ranges, alongside improved electronic warfare suites with broader jamming capabilities, enhanced threat geolocation, and cyber-electronic attack integration. New weapons include the ASN4G hypersonic nuclear missile and advanced variants like MICA NG, while conformal fuel tanks and radar cross-section reduction measures boost endurance and survivability. These enhancements ensure the Rafale F5 excels in air superiority, deep strikes, and suppression of enemy air defenses.
A defining feature of the Rafale F5 is its collaborative combat architecture, enabling direct control of a large stealthy unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) derived from the nEUROn demonstrator. Weighing over 10 tons, this loyal wingman drone provides stealthy forward sensing, effector roles, and reduced pilot workload through manned-unmanned teaming. Combined with AI-driven sensor fusion and advanced data links, the system creates a networked "combat hive" that counters modern threats more effectively than traditional solo operations. This manned-unmanned synergy positions the Super Rafale as a versatile force multiplier.
Ultimately, the Dassault Rafale F5 proves that stealth is not the sole measure of lethality in future air combat. By leveraging incremental upgrades, powerful avionics, and drone integration, France delivers a fighter that remains highly capable well into the 2040s and beyond, bridging to the Future Combat Air System while appealing to nations seeking autonomy and performance without the high costs of fifth-generation platforms. With over 300 Rafales already sold globally, the F5 reinforces the aircraft's status as a top-tier choice in the evolving fighter jet market.