Rafale EQ

The Rafale EQ is the electric‑propulsion variant of Dassault Aviation’s celebrated Rafale family, conceived to demonstrate the French manufacturer’s commitment to sustainable aviation and to explore the integration of high‑performance electric systems in combat‑capable aircraft. Development began in 2021 under the “Rafale‑Zero‑Emission” program, leveraging the airframe’s proven delta‑wing and canard layout while replacing the conventional turbofan with a hybrid electric powerplant that combines a small turbo‑generator with high‑energy‑density lithium‑metal batteries. First ground‑tested in 2023, the prototype performed its maiden flight in June 2024, achieving a cruise speed of Mach 0.8 and a range of 800 km on pure electric thrust before the turbine re‑engaged for extended missions. Key features include a full‑fly‑by‑wire control system adapted for instantaneous torque response, regenerative braking during deceleration, and modular battery pods that can be swapped in under ten minutes. The Rafale EQ showcases how legacy fighter designs can be retrofitted for greener operations, providing a testbed for future electric or hybrid combat aircraft. Its significance lies not only in reducing carbon emissions but also in proving that high‑performance maneuverability and low‑observable characteristics can coexist with emerging energy‑efficient technologies, shaping the next generation of military aviation.