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World Aviation Defense & Security News - France & Qatar
 
 
Rafale Contract in Qatar Came Into Force Today
 
The contract for the purchase of 24 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft by Qatar came into force today. Signed in Doha on 4 May 2015, in the company of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, and Mr. François Hollande, President of the French Republic, this contract represents a new milestone in the strategic partnership between Qatar and France. It also confirms the historical ties that have been forged with Dassault Aviation for almost forty years.
 
 
“In a demanding geopolitical context, Qatar wants to benefit from the Rafale’s qualities in the same way as it was able to do previously with those of the Mirage F1, Alpha Jet and Mirage 2000. Dassault Aviation and the 500 French companies associated with the Rafale program are honored by this demonstration of trust”, said Eric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation.
     
The multibillion-dollar contract between the State of Qatar and Dassault Aviation for 24 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft has been signed on Monday, May 4 in Doha in the presence of Mr. François Hollande, President of the French Republic. Following on from the Mirage F1, the Alpha Jet and the Mirage 2000, the Rafale is set to extend the historic partnership between Qatar, France and Dassault Aviation.
Dassault Rafale multirole fighter aircraft
(Dassault Aviation)
     
The Rafale is a twin-jet fighter aircraft able to operate from both an aircraft carrier and a shore base. The fully versatile Rafale is able to carry out all combat aviation missions: air defense, interception, ground support, in-depth strikes, reconnaissance, anti-ship strikes and nuclear deterrence. The Rafale entered service with the French Navy in 2004 and with the French Air Force in 2006. The Egyptian Air Force received its first aircraft in 2015. The Rafale has proven its worth in combat in Afghanistan, Libya, Mali, Iraq and Syria. On 30 June 2015, 138 Rafale aircraft had been delivered.