βοΈ Rafale gets major power boost with F5 upgrade
France is fast-tracking the Rafale F5 upgrade, awarding key tech contracts to Dassault Aviation, Thales, Safran, and MBDA. The development phase for the F5 is slated to begin by the end of 2026. This upgrade will feature a new Thales RBE2-XG radar and a Safran M88 T-Rex engine, boosting capabilities significantly. The enhanced fighter aims to counter complex threats expected by 2035. This is timely as India plans to acquire 114 Rafale jets, potentially gaining F5 access. π