Rafale set for major firepower boost as France fast-tracks F5 upgrade amid India’s 114-jet plan
France has initiated the development phase for the Rafale F5 fighter jet upgrade, focusing on advanced radar, electronic warfare, and collaborative combat capabilities. The project involves major defense contractors and aims to counter evolving global security threats by 2035.
Why it matters
The upgrade is critical for France's defense posture and has significant implications for India's ongoing procurement plans for 114 fighter jets.
France has accelerated preparations for the Rafale F5, the next major upgrade of its Rafale fighter, with the country’s defence procurement agency awarding contracts for key technologies ahead of the programme’s formal development phase.According to France’s Directorate General of Armament (DGA), preparatory contracts have been awarded to Dassault Aviation, Thales, Safran and MBDA. The Rafale F5 development phase is expected to begin by the end of 2026.The upgrade is set to bring major improvements to the fighter’s radar, electronic warfare, propulsion, connectivity and weapons capabilities.Rafale F5 upgradesThe Rafale F5 is being developed as a major mid-life upgrade designed to improve the fighter’s ability to operate against increasingly sophisticated threats.One of the key changes will be the introduction of the Thales RBE2-XG radar.
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