DGA Approves F4.1 Standard for Rafale: Ushering in a New Age of Joint Air Warfare
The Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) declared on March 13, 2023, the certification of the F4.1 version for the Rafale strike aircraft, positioning it to embrace the new age of collaborative air warfare.
The F4.1 version marks the initial phase in the progressive enhancement of the Rafale, comprising multiple essential capabilities advancements within the air combat domain. These enhancements encompass the incorporation of the Scorpion helmet display, refinements in fire control for the external deployment of the Meteor missile, advancement of passive threat detection systems, and enhanced data-sharing abilities among Rafale units.
Moreover, the F4.1 version introduces additional enhancements, including the integration of the 1,000 kg AASM munition featuring GPS/laser guidance, improved defenses against cyber challenges, and upgraded functionalities for the Talios, OSF, and RBE2 sensors. The certification of this version necessitated the collaboration of various DGA specialized centers and testing facilities, in conjunction with the French Navy, the Air and Space Force, and Dassault Aviation.
Operational trials conducted by the Air and Space Force and the French Navy commenced on March 3, 2023, with the retrofit of all Rafales to this modern standard to be executed gradually. The initial deployment aboard the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is anticipated in spring as part of this initiative.
