Dassault’s Rafale Legacy: CEO Trappier Dismisses Pakistani Claims as India's Air Power Rises
Dassault CEO Éric Trappier refutes Pakistani claims of Rafale losses. Explore Rafale's journey in India—from deal to deployment and future naval expansion. Introduction: Rafale Under Fire, But Flying High In June 2025, a strong statement from Dassault Aviation CEO Éric Trappier hit international headlines. Responding to reports from Pakistan alleging that three Indian Air Force Rafale jets were shot down during a recent military operation, Trappier firmly rejected the claim, calling it "absolutely incorrect" and "factually wrong." His comments came amid rising tension following India’s precise aerial operations over the border earlier that month. Far from damaging Rafale’s reputation, this episode reignited public interest in the combat jet’s capabilities, its acquisition journey, and its impact on India’s strategic defense structure. This blog delves into Dassault’s business journey in India, from the origins of the deal to local manufacturing plans and the f...