Defence

Rafale squadron inaugurated

The first French air force squadron to operate the Dassault Rafale multi-role fighter attained full operational capability at St Dizier air base on 27 June. No 1/7 “Provence” squadron previously operated Sepecat Jaguar fighter-bombers in the ground-attack role. It has received 10 Rafales and will receive another 10 by the end of the year. A second Rafale squadron, this time tasked with the nuclear strike role, will stand up in 2008 with another 20 aircraft. To date, 120 Rafales have been ordered for the air force and navy, and 34 have been delivered.

© Sirpa Air