French rafale jets collide mid‑air, search continues for crew
In France, two aircraft belonging to the French Air Force have collided. The accident occurred in Autreville, on the Vosges and Meurthe-et-Moselle border, in the Colombey-les-Belles region. According to French media, Rafale fighters from the military base in Saint-Dizier were involved in the accident. What is known about these aircraft?
AFP reports that the aircraft involved in the incident came from the military base in Saint-Dizier. One pilot was on board one of the fighters, and two people were on board the other. One pilot has been found, and the search for the crew of the second aircraft is ongoing. According to Le Monde, the aircraft collided in the air and then crashed. Initially, it was reported that they were Mirage fighters. Still, French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu clarified on platform X that it was "an accident involving two Rafale aircraft from the Rafale 3/4 Aquitaine squadron."
What is known about Rafale fighters?
The Dassault Rafale is a multi-role fighter recognised in many countries worldwide. These advanced aircraft are used by the French armed forces and many other nations, including India, Greece, and Egypt. The Rafale is distinguished by its versatile combat capabilities and ability to conduct various missions, from air combat and ground support to maritime operations.
The Rafale is equipped with the latest avionics and weaponry. Under the F4 standard, the aircraft features upgraded Snecma M88 engines, a helmet-mounted display, and an advanced diagnostic system utilising artificial intelligence (Système de Pronostic et d’Aide au Diagnostic).
The aircraft can carry long-range air-to-air Meteor missiles, MICA NG missiles, AM 39-Exocet anti-ship missiles, and Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG cruise missiles. Its onboard 30-mm calibre cannon excels at providing close support for ground forces.
Rafale - fighters that are highly sought after
Colombia urgently needs new fighters in light of the growing threat from Venezuela. The French Rafale has a good chance of securing the contract. India, on the other hand, is ordering 26 Rafale M aircraft to replace the ageing MiG-29K. Indonesia signed a contract in 2022 to deliver 42 Rafale fighters for USD 8.1 billion, which will join the existing F-16 and Su-30 aircraft fleet. All these transactions highlight the global attractiveness of the Rafale as a multirole fighter capable of meeting the challenges on the modern battlefield.
