Did India Really Lose Rafale Jets to Pakistan? Dassault’s Reply Says It All

Paris (Île-de-France) [France] June 15:  In a recent interview with French magazine Challenges, Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier responded to Pakistan’s statement that Indian Rafale jets were shot down in early May. He firmly called the claims “inaccurate”. Dassault, the French company behind the Rafale fighter jet, has been closely involved with India’s air defence since 2016. Trappier pointed out that no official Indian statement confirmed any Rafale losses, and the truth remains unknown.

India’s Mission and Air Losses

India carried out Operation Sindoor in early May, targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir after a deadly attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people. This led to aerial clashes, during which Pakistan claimed it shot down six Indian aircraft, including Rafales. India has not revealed exact numbers of losses. Air Marshal AK Bharti later said, “We are in a combat scenario; losses are part of combat,” but added that the mission was successful.

Chief of Defence Calls Claim False

General Anil Chauhan, India’s Chief of Defence Staff, called Pakistan’s statement “absolutely incorrect” during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. He agreed that Indian jets were lost early in the operation but didn’t confirm if Rafales were among them. The lack of details from the Indian side left room for speculation. But Chauhan insisted that the main goal—to destroy terror bases—was achieved. This gave confidence to the forces and calmed public concern.

Why Rafale Still Matters to India

The Rafale jet is considered one of the strongest multi-role fighters in the world. India chose it because of its air-to-air, ground attack, and nuclear capabilities. Eric Trappier stood by the aircraft’s strength, saying, “Rafale is better than Chinese jets and even the American F-35 in some areas.” He explained that it’s not just about dogfights but how well a plane completes its mission. This makes the Rafale a key part of India’s defence.

A Look Back at Past Combat Confusion

Air fights often come with confusion and mixed stories. During the Kargil War in 1999, both sides gave different accounts of losses. That history continues today. The Dassault CEO reminded readers that even in World War II, losses didn’t mean failure. It’s about achieving the mission’s purpose. Whether India lost a Rafale or not, officials and experts say Operation Sindoor reached its target—shutting down terror activity. And for now, the Rafale still rules India’s skies.