France to acquire 47 Rafale F5 fighter jets for nuclear deterrence

France plans to acquire 47 new Rafale F5 fighter jets by 2035 to support its nuclear deterrence mission, according to the updated 2024-2030 Military Programming Law. The F5 variant will feature significant upgrades, including advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and the capability to deploy ASN4G hypersonic nuclear missiles. France is also developing a combat UAV to operate alongside these jets in high-threat environments.

Financing for the F5 program has become a challenge after negotiations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) failed. France will now bear the full financial burden of the project, which has an estimated total cost of 5 billion euros, after the UAE declined to participate due to disagreements regarding technology access and local industrial involvement.

Globally, the Dassault Rafale continues to see strong demand. Egypt is considering the purchase of an additional 24 aircraft, which would bring its total fleet to 78. Meanwhile, India is moving forward with plans to acquire 114 more jets, with a significant portion intended for domestic production under license. Other nations currently operating or interested in the Rafale include Greece, Croatia, Indonesia, Qatar, and Serbia.