French aviation giant Dassault Aviation is meticulously continuing the final flight tests and system evaluations of the two new Rafale fighter jets (DM18 and DM19) that it will deliver to the Egyptian Air Force. The images recorded by XL Aviation Spotting on April 6, 2025, reveal the critical phase before the transfer of these two advanced fighter jets to Egypt. The delivery comes as part of Egypt’s multi-year Rafale supply agreement with Dassault Aviation, significantly boosting the country’s air power.
Egypt's Rafale Fleet Grows: Shifting Regional Balance of Power
According to Army Recognition, the arrival of the DM18 and DM19 aircraft is considered a result of the second Rafale contract signed by Egypt in 2021. With these new deliveries, Egypt is further consolidating its position as the largest Rafale user after France. Egypt’s Rafale adventure began on February 16, 2015, with an order for 5,9 aircraft under a $24 billion package that included the FREMM frigate and various munitions. This first contract included 16 dual-pilot Rafale DMs and 8 single-pilot Rafale EM variants. The first delivery was made in July 3, consisting of 2015 Rafale DMs originally produced for the French Air Force. The Egyptian Air Force’s inventory includes modern fighter jets from various countries and manufacturers, such as the US-made F-16, the Russian-made MiG-29, and the French-made Rafale and Mirage. As a reflection of Egypt’s multi-faceted defense policies, the expansion of the Rafale fleet with these new deliveries will further strengthen the country’s strategic role in regional security.
Dassault Aviation Makes Move to Increase Production Capacity
On the other hand, according to L'Usine Nouvelle, French aerospace and defense giant Dassault Aviation is taking important steps to keep up with the increasing Rafale orders. Company CEO Éric Trappier announced that they are evaluating the possibility of establishing a final assembly line for Rafale fighter jets in India in line with the expected large orders. Trappier said, “India is preparing large orders and we can definitely open a final assembly line in this country to meet this new workload.” With the significant increase in demand for Rafale in recent years, Dassault has been making intensive efforts to increase its production capacity. At the same time, the company, which is trying to manage possible constraints in the supply chain, aims to increase the number of monthly Rafale deliveries. This strategic move is of critical importance in terms of strengthening Dassault's position in the global market and meeting the demands of major customers such as Egypt on time. This strong defense cooperation between France and Egypt is expected to deepen even further with new projects and partnerships in the future.
