Defense Ministry: Purchase of 80 French Rafale combat aircraft to replace the Mirage fleet

The UAE Ministry of Defense announced in a statement today that the UAE has signed a contract with France, which includes in its terms the purchase of 80 Rafale combat aircraft to replace the Mirage fleet in the UAE Air Force squadron, in addition to training and maintenance.

Commenting on the deal, the Commander of the Air Force and Air Defense, Major General Staff Pilot Ibrahim Nasser Al-Alawi, said: "The UAE has been searching for some time in the global markets for an alternative to the Mirage aircraft that is currently in service...and we have been in talks with French companies for some time. We are pleased to announce the signing of this agreement.”

Major General Al Alawi added: "We will continue to develop the capabilities of our air force and air defense systems, and search for new products and technologies as part of our national security strategy. To develop the capabilities of the UAE Air Force in a way that serves our national interests.”

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