India prepares to welcome Rafale jets
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The Indian Air Force is preparing to integrate the French-built Rafale jet into its ranks as part of efforts to upgrade its ageing fighter fleet
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DASSAULT RAFALE: Multi-role strike, air superiority and reconnaissance jet

Engines: Twin SNECMA M88 turbofans. Total thrust 15 tonnes

Radar system: RBE2-AA AESA* able to detect, track and engage multiple targets at extended ranges

30mm cannon

*Active electronically scanned array
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Payload: 9.5 tonnes of external fuel and ordnance on 14 hardpoints. Weapons include Meteor beyond- visual-range air-to-air missile and SCALP ground-attack cruise missile with range in excess of 300km

Configuration Delta / canard layout maximises manoeuvrability while maintaining flight stability
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All-moving canard wing

Length 15.3m

Delta wing

Wingspan: 10.9m
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Specifications and performance

Max. speed  Mach     1.8
Service ceiling      15,240m
Max. take-off weight 24.5tonnes 
Internal fuel        4.7 tonnes
Max. external fuel   6.7 tonnes
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INDIA  
Ambala 
New Delhi
PAKISTAN
CHINA
Planned Rafale squadron
Hasimara

500km 310 miles


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Sources: Dassault Aviation, Economic Times, Popular Mechanics   © GRAPHIC NEWS


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