In a recent development that could bring French fighter jets back into the spotlight after the Rafale’s reputation suffered a decline following the India-Pakistan clashes, the French daily La Tribune revealed that Egypt had submitted an official request to Dassault Aviation to purchase 24 additional Rafale fighter jets.
The potential deal would be the third of its kind between Cairo and the French company, bringing the total number of Rafale fighter jets in service in Egypt to 78.
The order would cover 24 aircraft, although Dassault Aviation has declined to comment on the information at this stage.
After becoming the first foreign customer to purchase Rafales in 2015, with an order for 24 aircraft, Egypt subsequently placed a new order for 30 Rafales in 2021. The latter purchase, worth nearly 4 billion euros ($4.6 billion), was spread over 10 years through a loan 85% guaranteed by France.
France-Egypt 'strategic partnership' strengthened
