Focus | Is the French Rafale fighter jet a real alternative to the US-made F-35 Portugal planned to purchase?
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In an interview with the Journal du Dimanche published on 23 March 2025, Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, expressed its intention to propose the Rafale fighter aircraft to Portugal. Éric Trappier, the company’s CEO, confirmed that while no discussions have taken place yet, Dassault sees Portugal—a NATO and European Union member—as a logical future partner. The Rafale would offer Portugal the same level of interoperability enjoyed by other Alliance members. This prospect reflects Dassault’s broader strategy to expand Rafale exports within Europe, especially at a time when several countries are reconsidering their defense procurement, especially of US-made F-35 fighter jets.Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
The Rafale is structured around versatility within a single airframe, enabling multiple mission types across different military branches without variant specialization, while the F-35 is built around stealth, sensor fusion, and integration into network-centric operations, with distinct variants optimized for specific basing and operational needs. (Picture source: French Air Force)
Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, confirmed that the company is preparing to raise Rafale production to meet future demand. Having increased from less than one aircraft per month in 2020 to more than two per month today, Dassault is on track to deliver three aircraft per month in 2025 and aims for four by 2028–2029. The firm is also studying the possibility of reaching a five-per-month production rate, depending on available space, workforce capacity, subcontractor readiness, and engine manufacturer responsiveness. Trappier emphasized that this is not just a Dassault challenge but one shared across the 400 companies in the Rafale supply chain, which must coordinate to deliver on time.
Trappier linked the expansion plans directly to French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement at Luxeuil Air Base, where the president declared the deployment of two additional squadrons to reinforce France’s airborne nuclear deterrence. This component of the French doctrine is currently carried by the Rafale, underlining the need for additional aircraft. The announcement also sent two clear messages, according to Trappier: one to the United States—acknowledging calls for greater European defense autonomy—and another to European partners—reaffirming France’s commitment to strengthening its defense base.
The interview also addressed the international market and geopolitical uncertainty surrounding the F-35. Trappier noted that some countries, such as Canada, are pausing their F-35 programs amid doubts about long-term commitments and political predictability. While he remained cautious about drawing conclusions, he made it clear that Dassault stands ready to respond if countries decide to reconsider their fighter jet choices. He also expressed optimism about the longstanding negotiations with India and the potential for expanding production with a dedicated line there to meet both Indian and broader global demands.
Portugal is reassessing its plan to replace its aging F-16 fleet with the F-35 due to concerns about long-term reliability and political predictability of the United States as a defense partner. According to statements by Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo, recent geopolitical developments have prompted a reevaluation of available options, with emphasis on the operational implications of relying on U.S.-made systems, including risks related to maintenance, component availability, and alliance commitments. These considerations reflect broader concerns in Europe that political shifts in Washington could impact defense cooperation. As a result, Portugal is now considering European alternatives such as the Dassault Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, and the Saab Gripen. This process also aligns with European Commission recommendations encouraging member states to prioritize intra-European defense procurement in order to support regional industrial capabilities and reduce external dependence.
Regarding Portugal, Trappier confirmed Dassault’s intention to offer the Rafale, although he said it was still early in the process. As a member of both the European Union and NATO, Portugal would benefit from full interoperability with other Rafale operators within the alliance. This interest also comes at a time when the F-35’s political and logistical implications are under increasing scrutiny in several capitals. Yet with both jets being proposed across overlapping markets, the question remains: are the Rafale and the F-35 really comparable?
The Dassault Rafale offers a unified multirole airframe, allows independent upgrades and weapons integration, and provides high adaptability across a wide range of missions. (Picture source: NATO Allied Air Command/Marvin Hofmann)
France’s decision to withdraw from the European Fighter Aircraft program in 1985 led to the creation of the Rafale, a fighter jet tailored specifically for the full spectrum of French military missions—air superiority, deep strike, close air support, nuclear deterrence, reconnaissance, and carrier-based operations—all within a single airframe. The Dassault Rafale exists in three variants: the single-seat Rafale C, the two-seat Rafale B, and the carrier-based Rafale M, all capable of switching roles mid-mission. In contrast, the F-35 program pursued role specialization through three variants: the F-35A (conventional takeoff), F-35B (short takeoff/vertical landing), and F-35C (carrier-based). While the F-35 benefits from unified systems and software, this tripartite configuration complicates logistics, increases procurement costs, and causes delays. In short, the Rafale’s unified design simplifies logistics and cross-branch interoperability in a way the split F-35 variants cannot match.
In terms of avionics, the Rafale benefits from a continuously upgraded electronic suite, notably the SPECTRA system, which integrates electronic warfare, threat detection, jamming, and decoy capabilities, allowing the Rafale to tailor its electromagnetic emissions. This avionics suite, centered on a modular architecture integrating the RBE2 AESA radar, the SPECTRA electronic warfare system, the OSF (Optronique Secteur Frontal), is highly regarded for its real-time threat analysis and survivability enhancements.
While the F-35’s sensor suite, among the most advanced globally and built around the AN/APG-81 AESA radar, the Distributed Aperture System (DAS), the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS), and the fusion of all inputs into a single helmet-mounted display (HMDS), provides unmatched situational awareness in a passive configuration, the Rafale’s active and passive countermeasures offer more flexibility in contested electromagnetic environments, particularly in missions involving SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses), where it has a clearer doctrine integration path, especially when combined with upcoming enhancements in the F5 standard. The Rafale also retains the advantage of modularity, easier upgrades, and operational independence from foreign software ecosystems, as its architecture allows independent upgrade cycles, while F-35 upgrades are centrally coordinated by the Joint Program Office and are dependent on the U.S. export framework.
However, the F-35 has a clear lead in stealth, which is a key advantage in certain missions. Designed with low observability as a core feature, it uses shape optimization and radar-absorbent coatings to minimize radar cross-section (RCS), enabling deep penetration missions in heavily defended airspace with a reduced risk of early detection. Additionally, the F-35 carries weapons internally to preserve its radar signature while its advanced sensor fusion allows pilots to receive a unified tactical picture, reducing cognitive load and improving decision speed, making it highly suitable for first-day strike missions.
In contrast, the Rafale, considered “discrete” rather than stealthy, does not feature the same degree of low observability, as it relies on a mix of shaping, passive RCS reduction, and active electronic warfare to stay survivable. Its supercruise capability (Mach 1.4 without afterburner at altitude) is also a noteworthy asset in maintaining energy and evading threats, while the F-35, despite powerful thrust, does not possess a sustained supercruise capability due to airframe design and cooling constraints. However, both aircraft are capable of operating in contested environments, though they apply different methods: the F-35 emphasizes passive stealth, while Rafale relies on a combination of passive and active measures to remain effective.
The Rafale is generally considered more affordable to acquire and maintain than the F-35, aided by streamlined logistics and the absence of proprietary U.S. software systems. The unit acquisition cost is also favorable: €68–78 million depending on the variant, versus approximately $80–100 million for the F-35A, with maintenance and flight hour costs notably lower than those of the F-35. Furthermore, the Rafale has demonstrated high availability rates, with the French Navy reporting up to 94% readiness during certain deployments aboard the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.
By contrast, the F-35’s Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS), now replaced by the ODIN (Operational Data Integrated Network), though sophisticated, has suffered from reliability and transparency issues, with host countries dependent on U.S. maintenance frameworks and delayed spare part supply chains, which have negatively affected its mission-capable rates. This makes the Rafale more attractive to countries with tighter budgets or those requiring higher operational tempo, although direct comparisons vary depending on national accounting practices and specific configurations.
Both the Rafale and the F-35 offer high payload capacities, with notable differences in configuration and structural design. The Rafale features 14 hardpoints (13 for the Rafale M) and a maximum external payload of 9,500 kg. With an empty weight of approximately 9,850 kg (Rafale C) to 10,450 kg (Rafale B), and a maximum takeoff weight of 24,500 kg, this means that the Rafale can carry loads that exceed its own empty mass. An example of structural overcapacity, this high payload-to-weight ratio allows the French aircraft to operate in heavily armed configurations for air interdiction, deep strike, or ferry missions. The F-35, depending on the variant, includes 10 hardpoints for the F-35A and F-35C (4 internal, 6 external) and 8 for the F-35B (2 internal, 6 external).
The F-35 is configured to operate in two loadout modes: a low-observable configuration with internal weapons carriage only, and a high-capacity external load configuration informally referred to as “beast mode,” which increases firepower at the cost of radar signature. In this latter configuration, the F-35 employs both internal bays and external pylons, allowing for a maximum weapons load of approximately 8,160 kg. The F-35A has an empty weight of about 13,290 kg and a maximum takeoff weight of 31,800 kg. The F-35C shares the same maximum takeoff weight but has a higher empty weight of 15,785 kg. The F-35B, due to its vertical lift fan, has a lower takeoff weight limit of 27,200 kg and an empty weight of 14,650 kg. The Rafale uses only external hardpoints, while the F-35 prioritizes internal carriage to preserve low observability, trading payload flexibility for stealth in standard configurations.
The F-35 must be noted for its low observability for stealth operations, advanced sensor fusion with centralized data processing, and standardized interoperability across allied networks. (Picture source: Royal Netherland Air Force)
The Rafale is compatible with a range of international air-to-air, air-to-ground, and strategic weapons to allow users to integrate national or non-French weapons with limited external approval processes, such as the Meteor and MICA air-to-air missiles, SCALP/Storm Shadow cruise missile, AM39 Exocet anti-ship missile, AASM precision-guided bombs, and the ASMP-A nuclear cruise missile as well as the future ASN4G for nuclear deterrence. In contrast, the F-35 supports a different but equally lethal arsenal of U.S. and NATO-standard munitions, including the AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-9X Sidewinder, GBU-31/32 JDAM, GBU-53/B StormBreaker, and the B61-12 tactical nuclear bomb for U.S. aircraft. The F-35’s software-defined architecture enables centralized management and updates, and ensures interoperability within U.S.-aligned coalitions, but also requires approval through the US Joint Program Office for integration of additional or non-U.S. munitions.
The F-35, despite facing criticism over costs and delays, has been adopted by the United States and 19 allied nations, with over 1,130 aircraft delivered, accumulating more than 1 million flight hours. In total, 4,141 F-35s are planned worldwide, with the United States accounting for 2,456 aircraft (59.3%) and international operators acquiring 1,685 (40.7%). The F-35A is the most widely used variant, with 3,186 planned and delivered aircraft, of which the U.S. Air Force accounts for 1,763 (55.3%), while other operators, including Australia, Israel, Japan, and several European nations such as Belgium, account for 1,423 (44.7%).
The F-35B has a total of 542 planned units, with the U.S. Marine Corps acquiring 280 (51.7%) and international operators, such as the UK, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea, accounting for 262 (48.3%). The F-35C, designed for carrier operations, has 413 planned units, with 273 (66.1%) designated for the U.S. Navy and 140 (33.9%) for the U.S. Marine Corps; no other country currently operates this variant. Confirmed orders include 105 F-35As and 42 F-35Bs for Japan, 75 F-35As and 40 F-35Bs for Italy, 60 F-35As for South Korea, 34 F-35A for Belgium, and 72 F-35As for Australia.
In contrast, as of March 2025, the Rafale has accumulated a total of 507 orders from nine countries. Dassault Aviation has secured orders from several countries, including Egypt (54 units), India (36), Qatar (36), Greece (18), Croatia (12), Indonesia (42), the United Arab Emirates (80), and Serbia (12). France ordered 234 aircraft for the French Air and Space Force and the French Navy, including a recent order for 42 Rafale known as “tranche 5,” to strenghten the French Air and Space Force. These orders have contributed to France’s defense exports, which reached over €18 billion (US$18.6 billion) in 2024, marking the second-best year on record, driven largely by Rafale sales.
The Rafale has also accumulated extensive combat experience across multiple regions, including Afghanistan (2002–2014), Libya (2011), Mali (Operation Serval), Iraq and Syria (Operation Chammal), and maritime deployments, showing consistent multirole effectiveness in high-tempo environments. Finally, operational feedback from both platforms continues to shape future upgrades: Rafale with F4 (2023–2025), F5 (post-2030) and associated drones, and the F-35 with Block 4 upgrades and integration into Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) architecture.
Finishing with the performances on paper, the Dassault Rafale is powered by two Snecma M88-2 turbofan engines, each providing 75 kN of thrust with afterburner, enabling a maximum speed of approximately Mach 1.8 (1,912 km/h at altitude). The aircraft can sustain supersonic flight without afterburner (supercruise) at around Mach 1.4 and achieves a maximum altitude of 15,240 meters. Its airframe, with a delta wing and active canards, offers high agility and a maximum load factor of +9g. The Rafale’s instantaneous turn rate and high angle-of-attack capabilities are enhanced by its digital fly-by-wire system and relaxed static stability. It has a thrust-to-weight ratio of approximately 1.10 at 50% fuel and air-to-air load.
In contrast, the F-35A is powered by a single Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engine producing 191.3 kN of thrust with afterburner. Its top speed is approximately Mach 1.6 (1,975 km/h), with no published supercruise capability. The aircraft’s maximum altitude is around 15,240 meters, and its rated maximum g-load is +9g, identical to the Rafale. The F-35 uses a blended wing-body design with internal weapons bays to reduce drag and radar signature, resulting in lower wave drag but more constrained airflow control at high angles of attack.
In dogfight conditions, the Rafale benefits from lower wing loading, a higher thrust-to-weight ratio under certain loads, and greater energy retention in horizontal maneuvers, while the F-35 emphasizes situational awareness and sensor fusion rather than close-range turning performance. Independent assessments suggest the Rafale may hold an advantage in sustained turn performance and nose-pointing authority, while the F-35’s advantage lies in first-look, first-shot capability through its sensor suite.
Finally, it is very important to not forget that each platform addresses different operational requirements, which are better suited to a particular country’s needs at the time, both in the short, medium and long term: the Rafale offers flexibility, upgrade autonomy, and compatibility with national defense strategies, while the F-35 provides low observability, sensor integration, and alignment with centralized multinational frameworks.
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In an interview with the Journal du Dimanche published on 23 March 2025, Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, expressed its intention to propose the Rafale fighter aircraft to Portugal. Éric Trappier, the company’s CEO, confirmed that while no discussions have taken place yet, Dassault sees Portugal—a NATO and European Union member—as a logical future partner. The Rafale would offer Portugal the same level of interoperability enjoyed by other Alliance members. This prospect reflects Dassault’s broader strategy to expand Rafale exports within Europe, especially at a time when several countries are reconsidering their defense procurement, especially of US-made F-35 fighter jets.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
The Rafale is structured around versatility within a single airframe, enabling multiple mission types across different military branches without variant specialization, while the F-35 is built around stealth, sensor fusion, and integration into network-centric operations, with distinct variants optimized for specific basing and operational needs. (Picture source: French Air Force)
Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, confirmed that the company is preparing to raise Rafale production to meet future demand. Having increased from less than one aircraft per month in 2020 to more than two per month today, Dassault is on track to deliver three aircraft per month in 2025 and aims for four by 2028–2029. The firm is also studying the possibility of reaching a five-per-month production rate, depending on available space, workforce capacity, subcontractor readiness, and engine manufacturer responsiveness. Trappier emphasized that this is not just a Dassault challenge but one shared across the 400 companies in the Rafale supply chain, which must coordinate to deliver on time.
Trappier linked the expansion plans directly to French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement at Luxeuil Air Base, where the president declared the deployment of two additional squadrons to reinforce France’s airborne nuclear deterrence. This component of the French doctrine is currently carried by the Rafale, underlining the need for additional aircraft. The announcement also sent two clear messages, according to Trappier: one to the United States—acknowledging calls for greater European defense autonomy—and another to European partners—reaffirming France’s commitment to strengthening its defense base.
The interview also addressed the international market and geopolitical uncertainty surrounding the F-35. Trappier noted that some countries, such as Canada, are pausing their F-35 programs amid doubts about long-term commitments and political predictability. While he remained cautious about drawing conclusions, he made it clear that Dassault stands ready to respond if countries decide to reconsider their fighter jet choices. He also expressed optimism about the longstanding negotiations with India and the potential for expanding production with a dedicated line there to meet both Indian and broader global demands.
Portugal is reassessing its plan to replace its aging F-16 fleet with the F-35 due to concerns about long-term reliability and political predictability of the United States as a defense partner. According to statements by Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo, recent geopolitical developments have prompted a reevaluation of available options, with emphasis on the operational implications of relying on U.S.-made systems, including risks related to maintenance, component availability, and alliance commitments. These considerations reflect broader concerns in Europe that political shifts in Washington could impact defense cooperation. As a result, Portugal is now considering European alternatives such as the Dassault Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, and the Saab Gripen. This process also aligns with European Commission recommendations encouraging member states to prioritize intra-European defense procurement in order to support regional industrial capabilities and reduce external dependence.
Regarding Portugal, Trappier confirmed Dassault’s intention to offer the Rafale, although he said it was still early in the process. As a member of both the European Union and NATO, Portugal would benefit from full interoperability with other Rafale operators within the alliance. This interest also comes at a time when the F-35’s political and logistical implications are under increasing scrutiny in several capitals. Yet with both jets being proposed across overlapping markets, the question remains: are the Rafale and the F-35 really comparable?
The Dassault Rafale offers a unified multirole airframe, allows independent upgrades and weapons integration, and provides high adaptability across a wide range of missions. (Picture source: NATO Allied Air Command/Marvin Hofmann)
France’s decision to withdraw from the European Fighter Aircraft program in 1985 led to the creation of the Rafale, a fighter jet tailored specifically for the full spectrum of French military missions—air superiority, deep strike, close air support, nuclear deterrence, reconnaissance, and carrier-based operations—all within a single airframe. The Dassault Rafale exists in three variants: the single-seat Rafale C, the two-seat Rafale B, and the carrier-based Rafale M, all capable of switching roles mid-mission. In contrast, the F-35 program pursued role specialization through three variants: the F-35A (conventional takeoff), F-35B (short takeoff/vertical landing), and F-35C (carrier-based). While the F-35 benefits from unified systems and software, this tripartite configuration complicates logistics, increases procurement costs, and causes delays. In short, the Rafale’s unified design simplifies logistics and cross-branch interoperability in a way the split F-35 variants cannot match.
In terms of avionics, the Rafale benefits from a continuously upgraded electronic suite, notably the SPECTRA system, which integrates electronic warfare, threat detection, jamming, and decoy capabilities, allowing the Rafale to tailor its electromagnetic emissions. This avionics suite, centered on a modular architecture integrating the RBE2 AESA radar, the SPECTRA electronic warfare system, the OSF (Optronique Secteur Frontal), is highly regarded for its real-time threat analysis and survivability enhancements.
While the F-35’s sensor suite, among the most advanced globally and built around the AN/APG-81 AESA radar, the Distributed Aperture System (DAS), the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS), and the fusion of all inputs into a single helmet-mounted display (HMDS), provides unmatched situational awareness in a passive configuration, the Rafale’s active and passive countermeasures offer more flexibility in contested electromagnetic environments, particularly in missions involving SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses), where it has a clearer doctrine integration path, especially when combined with upcoming enhancements in the F5 standard. The Rafale also retains the advantage of modularity, easier upgrades, and operational independence from foreign software ecosystems, as its architecture allows independent upgrade cycles, while F-35 upgrades are centrally coordinated by the Joint Program Office and are dependent on the U.S. export framework.
However, the F-35 has a clear lead in stealth, which is a key advantage in certain missions. Designed with low observability as a core feature, it uses shape optimization and radar-absorbent coatings to minimize radar cross-section (RCS), enabling deep penetration missions in heavily defended airspace with a reduced risk of early detection. Additionally, the F-35 carries weapons internally to preserve its radar signature while its advanced sensor fusion allows pilots to receive a unified tactical picture, reducing cognitive load and improving decision speed, making it highly suitable for first-day strike missions.
In contrast, the Rafale, considered “discrete” rather than stealthy, does not feature the same degree of low observability, as it relies on a mix of shaping, passive RCS reduction, and active electronic warfare to stay survivable. Its supercruise capability (Mach 1.4 without afterburner at altitude) is also a noteworthy asset in maintaining energy and evading threats, while the F-35, despite powerful thrust, does not possess a sustained supercruise capability due to airframe design and cooling constraints. However, both aircraft are capable of operating in contested environments, though they apply different methods: the F-35 emphasizes passive stealth, while Rafale relies on a combination of passive and active measures to remain effective.
The Rafale is generally considered more affordable to acquire and maintain than the F-35, aided by streamlined logistics and the absence of proprietary U.S. software systems. The unit acquisition cost is also favorable: €68–78 million depending on the variant, versus approximately $80–100 million for the F-35A, with maintenance and flight hour costs notably lower than those of the F-35. Furthermore, the Rafale has demonstrated high availability rates, with the French Navy reporting up to 94% readiness during certain deployments aboard the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.
By contrast, the F-35’s Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS), now replaced by the ODIN (Operational Data Integrated Network), though sophisticated, has suffered from reliability and transparency issues, with host countries dependent on U.S. maintenance frameworks and delayed spare part supply chains, which have negatively affected its mission-capable rates. This makes the Rafale more attractive to countries with tighter budgets or those requiring higher operational tempo, although direct comparisons vary depending on national accounting practices and specific configurations.
Both the Rafale and the F-35 offer high payload capacities, with notable differences in configuration and structural design. The Rafale features 14 hardpoints (13 for the Rafale M) and a maximum external payload of 9,500 kg. With an empty weight of approximately 9,850 kg (Rafale C) to 10,450 kg (Rafale B), and a maximum takeoff weight of 24,500 kg, this means that the Rafale can carry loads that exceed its own empty mass. An example of structural overcapacity, this high payload-to-weight ratio allows the French aircraft to operate in heavily armed configurations for air interdiction, deep strike, or ferry missions. The F-35, depending on the variant, includes 10 hardpoints for the F-35A and F-35C (4 internal, 6 external) and 8 for the F-35B (2 internal, 6 external).
The F-35 is configured to operate in two loadout modes: a low-observable configuration with internal weapons carriage only, and a high-capacity external load configuration informally referred to as “beast mode,” which increases firepower at the cost of radar signature. In this latter configuration, the F-35 employs both internal bays and external pylons, allowing for a maximum weapons load of approximately 8,160 kg. The F-35A has an empty weight of about 13,290 kg and a maximum takeoff weight of 31,800 kg. The F-35C shares the same maximum takeoff weight but has a higher empty weight of 15,785 kg. The F-35B, due to its vertical lift fan, has a lower takeoff weight limit of 27,200 kg and an empty weight of 14,650 kg. The Rafale uses only external hardpoints, while the F-35 prioritizes internal carriage to preserve low observability, trading payload flexibility for stealth in standard configurations.
The F-35 must be noted for its low observability for stealth operations, advanced sensor fusion with centralized data processing, and standardized interoperability across allied networks. (Picture source: Royal Netherland Air Force)
The Rafale is compatible with a range of international air-to-air, air-to-ground, and strategic weapons to allow users to integrate national or non-French weapons with limited external approval processes, such as the Meteor and MICA air-to-air missiles, SCALP/Storm Shadow cruise missile, AM39 Exocet anti-ship missile, AASM precision-guided bombs, and the ASMP-A nuclear cruise missile as well as the future ASN4G for nuclear deterrence. In contrast, the F-35 supports a different but equally lethal arsenal of U.S. and NATO-standard munitions, including the AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-9X Sidewinder, GBU-31/32 JDAM, GBU-53/B StormBreaker, and the B61-12 tactical nuclear bomb for U.S. aircraft. The F-35’s software-defined architecture enables centralized management and updates, and ensures interoperability within U.S.-aligned coalitions, but also requires approval through the US Joint Program Office for integration of additional or non-U.S. munitions.
The F-35, despite facing criticism over costs and delays, has been adopted by the United States and 19 allied nations, with over 1,130 aircraft delivered, accumulating more than 1 million flight hours. In total, 4,141 F-35s are planned worldwide, with the United States accounting for 2,456 aircraft (59.3%) and international operators acquiring 1,685 (40.7%). The F-35A is the most widely used variant, with 3,186 planned and delivered aircraft, of which the U.S. Air Force accounts for 1,763 (55.3%), while other operators, including Australia, Israel, Japan, and several European nations such as Belgium, account for 1,423 (44.7%).
The F-35B has a total of 542 planned units, with the U.S. Marine Corps acquiring 280 (51.7%) and international operators, such as the UK, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea, accounting for 262 (48.3%). The F-35C, designed for carrier operations, has 413 planned units, with 273 (66.1%) designated for the U.S. Navy and 140 (33.9%) for the U.S. Marine Corps; no other country currently operates this variant. Confirmed orders include 105 F-35As and 42 F-35Bs for Japan, 75 F-35As and 40 F-35Bs for Italy, 60 F-35As for South Korea, 34 F-35A for Belgium, and 72 F-35As for Australia.
In contrast, as of March 2025, the Rafale has accumulated a total of 507 orders from nine countries. Dassault Aviation has secured orders from several countries, including Egypt (54 units), India (36), Qatar (36), Greece (18), Croatia (12), Indonesia (42), the United Arab Emirates (80), and Serbia (12). France ordered 234 aircraft for the French Air and Space Force and the French Navy, including a recent order for 42 Rafale known as “tranche 5,” to strenghten the French Air and Space Force. These orders have contributed to France’s defense exports, which reached over €18 billion (US$18.6 billion) in 2024, marking the second-best year on record, driven largely by Rafale sales.
The Rafale has also accumulated extensive combat experience across multiple regions, including Afghanistan (2002–2014), Libya (2011), Mali (Operation Serval), Iraq and Syria (Operation Chammal), and maritime deployments, showing consistent multirole effectiveness in high-tempo environments. Finally, operational feedback from both platforms continues to shape future upgrades: Rafale with F4 (2023–2025), F5 (post-2030) and associated drones, and the F-35 with Block 4 upgrades and integration into Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) architecture.
Finishing with the performances on paper, the Dassault Rafale is powered by two Snecma M88-2 turbofan engines, each providing 75 kN of thrust with afterburner, enabling a maximum speed of approximately Mach 1.8 (1,912 km/h at altitude). The aircraft can sustain supersonic flight without afterburner (supercruise) at around Mach 1.4 and achieves a maximum altitude of 15,240 meters. Its airframe, with a delta wing and active canards, offers high agility and a maximum load factor of +9g. The Rafale’s instantaneous turn rate and high angle-of-attack capabilities are enhanced by its digital fly-by-wire system and relaxed static stability. It has a thrust-to-weight ratio of approximately 1.10 at 50% fuel and air-to-air load.
In contrast, the F-35A is powered by a single Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engine producing 191.3 kN of thrust with afterburner. Its top speed is approximately Mach 1.6 (1,975 km/h), with no published supercruise capability. The aircraft’s maximum altitude is around 15,240 meters, and its rated maximum g-load is +9g, identical to the Rafale. The F-35 uses a blended wing-body design with internal weapons bays to reduce drag and radar signature, resulting in lower wave drag but more constrained airflow control at high angles of attack.
In dogfight conditions, the Rafale benefits from lower wing loading, a higher thrust-to-weight ratio under certain loads, and greater energy retention in horizontal maneuvers, while the F-35 emphasizes situational awareness and sensor fusion rather than close-range turning performance. Independent assessments suggest the Rafale may hold an advantage in sustained turn performance and nose-pointing authority, while the F-35’s advantage lies in first-look, first-shot capability through its sensor suite.
Finally, it is very important to not forget that each platform addresses different operational requirements, which are better suited to a particular country’s needs at the time, both in the short, medium and long term: the Rafale offers flexibility, upgrade autonomy, and compatibility with national defense strategies, while the F-35 provides low observability, sensor integration, and alignment with centralized multinational frameworks.
