EUROPE F3-R-STANDARD VARIANT OF THE RAFALE

France’s Defence Procurement Agency, DGA, has accepted the F3-R-standard variant of the Rafale combat aircraft. The F-3R standard was launched in 2013 and features a range of software enhancements that allow for the integration of the Meteor BVRAAM and SBU-64 smart bombs. The enhancements also improve the jet’s Spectra self-defence system provided by Thales and give it a new Friendor-Foe interrogator/transponder with full Mode-5/Mode-S-compatibility. Diagnostic improvements will make maintenance easier and more cost-effective. Dassault will shortly begin development of the F4standard Rafale, having completed initial feasibility studies for the programme