The Dassault Rafale is a French multi-role combat aircraft produced by Dassault Aviation. Developed in the 1980s, the Rafale A technology demonstrator first flew on July 4, 1986. The aircraft was created to replace and consolidate multiple specialized platforms for the French Air Force and French Navy, becoming a capable warplane for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions in all weather conditions. It entered service with the French Navy in 2001 and the French Air Force in 2006. With over 300 units built as of October 2025, the Rafale is recognized internationally and has been used in combat operations across multiple theaters.
Dassault Aviation’s history is foundational to French aerospace. The company’s roots trace back to Marcel Bloch’s initial industrial career in 1916. Following the first series model rollout on November 11, 1918, the company established itself as a producer of aircraft. Dassault Aviation continues its legacy today as a manufacturer of leading military and business aircraft.
A range of platforms and access solutions support detailed maintenance around the Rafale. These products enable access to critical sections, including the Nose Section (Radome, Antenna, Nose Avionics, Windshield & Cockpit, Bulkhead), Landing Gear (Nose Landing Gear and Main Landing Gear), and the Wing & Engine Pylon area for comprehensive engine servicing. Specialized access solutions facilitate methodical inspection across the Forward Fuselage, Middle Fuselage, AFT Fuselage, and Tail Section (Empennage).
