Dassault Aviation
Rafale C
The Rafale C is the single‑seat, land‑based version of Dassault Aviation’s multirole fighter, conceived in the early 1980s to replace several aging French aircraft. Development began under the "Super‑Avion" programme, and the prototype first flew on 4 July 1986. Entering operational service with the French Air Force in 2004, the Rafale C has since become a cornerstone of France’s air power and a key export product.
Built around a delta wing with a close‑coupled canard layout, the jet achieves excellent agility and high‑angle‑of‑attack performance while maintaining supersonic cruise without afterburner. Its twin‑engine Snecma M88 powerplants deliver 50 kN thrust each, supporting a maximum speed of Mach 1.8. Advanced avionics integrate a glass cockpit, active electronically scanned array radar, and sensor‑fusion software that let a single pilot manage air‑to‑air, air‑to‑ground and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft can carry a diverse payload, from Meteor beyond‑visual‑range missiles to SCALP cruise weapons, and is compatible with nuclear deterrent duties.
The Rafale C’s versatility, low operational cost and seamless interoperability with NATO forces have secured its reputation as one of the most capable fourth‑generation fighters, influencing modern combat‑aircraft design worldwide.
Built around a delta wing with a close‑coupled canard layout, the jet achieves excellent agility and high‑angle‑of‑attack performance while maintaining supersonic cruise without afterburner. Its twin‑engine Snecma M88 powerplants deliver 50 kN thrust each, supporting a maximum speed of Mach 1.8. Advanced avionics integrate a glass cockpit, active electronically scanned array radar, and sensor‑fusion software that let a single pilot manage air‑to‑air, air‑to‑ground and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft can carry a diverse payload, from Meteor beyond‑visual‑range missiles to SCALP cruise weapons, and is compatible with nuclear deterrent duties.
The Rafale C’s versatility, low operational cost and seamless interoperability with NATO forces have secured its reputation as one of the most capable fourth‑generation fighters, influencing modern combat‑aircraft design worldwide.
Classification
Production & History
- First Flight
- 1991