Ukraine keeps buying Rafale

Ukraine has signed a historic deal with France for 100 Rafale fighter planes. This deal could give a new strategic turn to the Russia-Ukraine war, as Rafale’s capability has already proven its effectiveness in Operation Vermillion.

Rafale’s performance in Operation Sindoor is being directly linked to this deal. In this operation, the Indian Air Force used Rafale aircraft to launch a precise attack on the terrorist hideouts and Pakistan’s

During Operation Sindoor, India attacked many airbases of Pakistan. This operation was carried out in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack in May 2025.

Which airbases of Pakistan were attacked?

The major airbases which were attacked included…

• Nur Khan Air Base,
• Rawalpindi (formerly known as Chaklala Airbase).
• Jacobabad Air Base Rahim Yar Khan Air Base
• Shorkot
• Bholari Airbase
• Murid’s
• Mushaf / Sargodha
• Qadrim
• Sialkot

The attack was carried out as a calibrated, multi-domain strike to target terrorist infrastructure.

What did Rafale prove in Operation Sindoor?

Stand-off strike capability – Rafale demonstrated the ability to strike targets from long range, allowing Indian pilots to carry out operations without entering Pakistan’s territory. Use of Scalp Cruise and Hammer missiles – This missile penetrated underground targets and fortified bunkers with millimeter-level accuracy. Sensor Fusion and Electronic Warfare (SPECTRA): The Rafale system played a decisive role in dodging enemy radar and air defence.

Network-Centric Warfare- Due to real-time data linking and coordination, there was excellent coordination between different platforms in the operation.

Air Superiority- During the operation, Rafale’s radar range, thrust and avionics have given a better edge to Indian aircraft compared to Pakistan.

Due to these capabilities, India destroyed the hideouts of terrorists and Pakistan’s important airbase became inactive and was forced to suffer heavy losses. And the world saw the power of India’s Rafale and Sukhoi 30 MKI.

Why did Ukraine choose 100 Rafale?

The success story of Operation Sindoor strengthened Rafale’s global image. Ukraine’s decision to purchase 100 Rafales is based on this proven reliability and combat-proven performance.

With the induction of Rafale, Ukraine’s strike capability will increase manifold. The possibility of precise attacks deep inside Russia will increase. There will be a huge increase in electronic warfare and stand-off weapons. There will be a new change in the strategic balance of Europe.

new geopolitical signal

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, this deal is not just an arms deal, but a sign of further strengthening the France-Ukraine strategic partnership. The addition of Rafale can change the balance of war, just as this aircraft gave a strategic edge in Operation Sindoor.