Dassault Aviation Reports 2016 Results, Highlights Rafale Exports

Dassault Aviation Reports 2016 Results

Dassault Aviation released its 2016 financial results on March 8, 2017, highlighting key achievements in a year marked by geopolitical and economic uncertainty. The company's performance was significantly boosted by export contracts for its Rafale fighter jet and the operational launch of its new Falcon 8X business jet.

The most substantial export success for 2016 was the contract for 36 Rafale fighter jets to India, which included a significant offset agreement. This deal underscored the long-standing strategic cooperation between France and India in defense, dating back to 1953. Deliveries also continued to Egypt, with three Rafale jets handed over, and Qatar, where the contract for 24 aircraft remained in progress.

Domestically, Dassault Aviation supplied six Rafale aircraft to the French Air Force, bringing the total delivered to 148 out of 180 ordered. The company continued development of the Rafale's F3-R standard and supported its operational deployment in various missions. The French defense procurement agency also notified future orders extending into 2017, 2018, and beyond 2021.

In addition to its operational and commercial activities, Dassault Aviation celebrated its centenary in 2016. The company also received recognition as an employer, being named France's most attractive company by Randstad Award in 2016 and the best employer in France by Capital magazine and Statista in early 2017.

The company also advanced future-oriented projects, including the nEUROn drone demonstrator and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS). Development work on maritime surveillance and patrol aircraft, such as the Falcon 2000, also continued with an order from Japanese Coastguards.