China Accused of Covert Campaign to Discredit French Rafale Fighter Jet
French intelligence and military officials have revealed a clandestine operation orchestrated by China aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Rafale fighter jet, France’s premier military export. This campaign reportedly intensified after the jet’s inaugural combat deployment during the India-Pakistan clashes in May 2023, specifically Operation Sindoor.
The intelligence report, accessed by the Associated Press, alleges that Chinese defense attachés stationed in embassies across Asia and beyond engaged in systematic lobbying efforts to dissuade potential buyers from acquiring the Rafale. In private meetings with military officials from countries considering or having already purchased the jet, particularly Indonesia, the attachés allegedly cast doubt on the Rafale’s performance, highlighting the purported downing of one aircraft during the India-Pakistan clashes while simultaneously promoting Chinese-made alternatives.
The French intelligence report claims that the Chinese campaign strategically targeted countries like Indonesia, a nation expressing interest in bolstering its air defense capabilities. Indonesia signed a deal with France for the acquisition of 42 Rafale jets. By undermining the Rafale’s credibility, China aimed to gain a competitive edge for its own fighter aircraft in the lucrative international arms market.
France acknowledges the loss of one Rafale during the India-Pakistan conflict, but disputes Pakistan’s claim of downing three. India’s official account of the number of aircraft lost remains undisclosed. However, the loss of the Rafale provided an opportunity for China to exploit the situation and propagate doubts about its performance.
France maintains that the Rafale’s combat capabilities remain unsurpassed, pointing to its proven track record in various military operations. They contend that the Chinese campaign constitutes a deliberate attempt to sabotage French arms sales and gain market share for their own military hardware. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the full extent of China’s covert activities and protect French strategic interests.
The French government is deeply concerned about these allegations and has initiated a thorough investigation into the matter. This incident has added another layer of complexity to the already strained relationship between France and China. The implications extend beyond the immediate economic impact on French arms sales, potentially affecting broader geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. France views this as a direct challenge to its strategic interests and is likely to pursue diplomatic channels to address the issue. The French government plans to raise the issue with Chinese authorities and demand clarification on the reported actions of their defense attachés. They may also consider retaliatory measures if the allegations are substantiated. The French government views maintaining the Rafale’s reputation essential for its strategic and economic interests and is thus taking a firm stance against what it perceives as unfair competition and disinformation.