Dassault Aviation Signs Major Rafale Export Deals in 2015
Dassault Aviation announced its 2015 results, a year marked by geopolitical and economic instability. The aircraft manufacturer secured significant export orders for its Rafale fighter jet from Egypt and Qatar.
Saint-Cloud, France – Dassault Aviation reported significant success in 2015 with the signing of major export contracts for its Rafale fighter jet. The company secured orders for 24 Rafale aircraft, including support, from both Egypt and Qatar. Egypt received three of its ordered aircraft in July 2015.
The company also continued deliveries to the French Air Force, with five Rafale jets handed over during the year. Development of the F3-R standard for the Rafale continued, alongside support for existing Mirage 2000 fleets in various countries, including India. Upgrade work on the Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft also progressed.
In the business jet sector, Dassault Aviation launched the new long-range Falcon 8X, with first deliveries expected in the latter half of 2016. Two Falcon 2000 Surmar maritime surveillance aircraft were delivered to the Japanese Coast Guard. However, the company faced delays with the Falcon 5X program due to issues with the Silvercrest engine, pushing initial deliveries to 2020.
Dassault Aviation highlighted its commitment to research and development, investing an average of 10.6% of its revenue over the past five years. The company is also investing to increase production rates for the Rafale and enhance completion processes for its Falcon business jets.