By Boyko Nikolov On Aug 31, 2023
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Expectations of witnessing the Rafale F5, adorned with a tricolor cockade, swiftly cutting through the skies may be met with a tinge of disappointment. Dassault Aviation’s preliminary schedule, meticulously crafted,
does not anticipate the commencement of deliveries to DGA before 2035, in the context of export contracts. This is primarily because the Rafale F5 is set to encapsulate the collective intellectual prowess of the design offices based in Saint-Cloud and the rigorous precision of the assembly lines in Mérignac.
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Initiating the discourse with the advent of the groundbreaking
RBE2-XG radar system, alternatively termed the
Disruption Radar. This innovative system harnesses the power of advanced technology, amalgamating the utilization of
gallium nitride with the computational prowess of
artificial intelligence.
In the realm of theoretical discourse, the RBE2-XG radar system holds a significant position. Theoretically, it possesses the capability to
identify all aircraft within its operational range. This includes even the most advanced 5th generation fighters, operating in nondegraded stealth mode.
The capability of discerning even the minutest targets,
inclusive of micro-drones, is a significant feature of the Rafale F5. These entities, being nearly undetectable by contemporary fighter jets, pose a considerable challenge. It is, therefore, crucial to underscore that this feature is not a mere addition but indeed lies at the core of the Rafale F5’s functionalities.
It is projected that
within the forthcoming five years, a DGA Flight Test aircraft, furnished with this advanced-generation radar, will embark on its inaugural flight. Commencement of mass production is anticipated to occur at the dawn of the subsequent decade. The integration of the RBE2-XG is poised to significantly enhance the longevity and effectiveness of currently utilized ‘simple’ AESA radars, notably the Captor-E ECRS Mk.2, a staple in the Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 4.
It is imperative to note that the
renowned Optronics of the forward sector [OSF] is in a phase of rejuvenation. This revitalization aims to sustain its role as the vigilant eye of the tricolor fighter. The enhancements are projected to significantly bolster its capabilities, particularly in the realm of image resolution.
ONERA, the legendary National Aeronautics and Space Administration, in conjunction with weapons manufacturer MBDA, is diligently pursuing the development of the
successor to the ASMP-A.
By the year 2035, the present improved medium-range air-to-surface missile is slated to be superseded by a device presently identified as the
ASN4G. This advanced armament is characterized by its
exceptional stealth capabilities and unparalleled speed. The introduction of the ASN4G will maintain, if not enhance, the nuclear strike vector of the ISS. A
conventional version of this weapon is under consideration, which could potentially replace the existing SCALP-EG cruise missiles.
The renowned French aircraft manufacturer, Dassault Aviation, is reportedly developing an
advanced interconnect for the Rafale F5. This innovative technology would enable the aircraft to command a swarm of drones. The creation of such a device is a significant shift in military aviation technology, marking a
critical transition point for the Rafale and the European SCAF in the 2045-2050 horizon. This development stems from the experiences and learnings acquired from the famous experimental nEUROn project.
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