Technical and objective analysis of the criteria that guide the choice between the Rafale, F-35, and Eurofighter fighter jets, based on performance, cost, and politics.
The importance of interoperability and alliances
The armed forces are primarily evaluating the F-35 fighter jet for its stealth capabilities and unique network of sensors (AESA radar, integrated weapons spectrum, DAS system, EOTS), offering unparalleled situational awareness. It enables real-time data sharing with allied forces, a major asset for joint missions.
This advantage explains why countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and Denmark, concerned with tactical consistency within NATO, have chosen the F-35.
European autonomy and industrial sovereignty
In contrast, the Rafale fighter jet and the Eurofighter offer an alternative focused on local industry, freeing states from the constraints of American supply chains. Spain recently opted to strengthen its Typhoon fleet and support the European FCAS program, preferring a model based on strategic dependence.
In addition to Spain, other countries such as Canada, Switzerland, and Portugal are reevaluating their position on the F-35 out of concern for sovereignty.
Acquisition cost and cost per flight hour
The price of the F-35 varies between $80 million and $110 million (≈ €74 million to €101 million) depending on the version.
The cost of the Rafale is similar at purchase (≈ $100 million), but its operating cost is much lower: approximately $15,000/hour compared to $40,000–50,000/hour for the F-35.
For the Eurofighter, some observers point to high acquisition costs, probably higher than those of the F-35, due to more expensive European labor.
Technical capabilities and performance
The 5th generation F-35 fighter jet stands out for its total stealth thanks to internal weaponry, advanced radar, and unparalleled systems integration.
The Rafale, although not stealthy, uses the RBE2 AESA radar (range 200 km), SPECTRA electronic warfare, supercruise at Mach 1.4, and an open architecture for upgrades.
The Eurofighter Typhoon is renowned for its aerial performance: Mach 1.8 maximum speed, excellent thrust-to-weight ratio, and agility. In a comparison, some believe that it surpassed the Eurofighter in maneuverability and operational performance.
Choice based on operational needs
For stealth or air-denial operations, the F-35 remains the expert, while the Rafale is better suited to rapid French or multi-role interventions, thanks to the modularity of its systems and its comprehensive armament (MICA, SCALP EG, AASM, 30 mm cannon).
The Eurofighter, meanwhile, is a robust solution dedicated to air superiority—fast and powerful, but less flexible in ground attack roles.
Examples of national decisions
- Belgium chose the F-35A, appreciating its performance, competitive price, and interoperability—the American offer dominated according to the seven evaluation criteria.
- Switzerland has committed to 36 F-35As to replace its F-5s, with delivery scheduled between 2027 and 2030.
- Greece has ordered 24 Rafale F3-Rs (six new and 18 lightly used), including weapons and support, for approximately €2.4 billion.
- Spain has rejected the F-35 and now favors the Typhoon and FCAS, in a move toward industrial sovereignty.
Detailed summary
| Criterion | F-35 | Rafale | Eurofighter Typhoon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stealth | High (internal weapons) | Reduced (composites, SPECTRA) | Non-stealth |
| Sensors/Systems | AESA, DAS, EOTS, advanced fusion | RBE2 AESA (200 km), SPECTRA | High-performance but non-integrated avionics |
| Agility / Max. speed | Optimized airframe, good agility | Agile, supercruise Mach 1.4 | Mach 1.8, very agile |
| Purchase cost / Hourly cost | $80-110 million; $40-50k/hour | ≈ $100 million; $15k/hour | High acquisition cost, expensive support |
| NATO interoperability | Optimal | Limited, requires adaptations | Average, depends on European program |
| Sovereignty / National industry | Limited (American) | Strong (centralized Dassault) | Good (European consortium) |
| Mission flexibility (multi-role) | Very good | Excellent omni-role | Mainly air superiority |
Fostering the strategic mindset of the modern military requires a subtle balance between technical performance, actual cost, political alignment, and industrial autonomy. The F-35 appeals for its stealth and joint network capabilities, the Rafale for its versatility, controlled operating costs, and independence, while the Eurofighter embodies air superiority power on a European scale.
The final choice will always be as much a political decision as a technical one: the balance between the Rafale’s air superiority, the F-35’s stealth capabilities, and the Eurofighter’s performance will shape the future of air fleets and strategic defense.
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