As already reported several times, Egypt ordered Egypt first export customer in 2015, Egypt ordered a total of 24 Rafale fighter aircraft from Dassault Aviation. The delivery of this first tranche was fully completed by 2019.
This was followed in 2021 by a second order for a further 30 Rafale with a total value of around 4.5 billion euros. This made Cairo the largest export customer for the French multi-role combat aircraft to date. According to public information and Egyptian media reports, ten aircraft from this second batch have now been handed over – in 2024 and 2025. By the beginning of 2026, around 40 Rafale will be in service with the Egyptian Air Force. These already include aircraft in the F3R version, which are to be upgraded to the F4.2 standard in the future.
The F3R configuration combines the AESA RBE2 radar with the long-range BVR Meteor air-to-air missile from MBDA. For advanced reconnaissance, target tracking and laser target designation of stationary and moving ground targets in the visible and infrared spectrum, the Rafale also features the Talios electro-optical/IR targeting pod from Thaleswhich now works with AI support. The equipment is supplemented by the NARANG auxiliary tank, GBU-16 laser-guided bombs, an automatic ground collision avoidance and warning system (AGCAS) and an advanced electronic warfare system via the SPECTRA suite.
The French jet will also be given greater consideration in Austria from next year in connection with the expected successor to the Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 1. In this context, however, the more advanced F5 version, which is currently expected to be introduced from around 2030, is already likely to play a role.
Here for more news about Dassault Aviation and here to further news about the Egyptian armed forces
