NEW DELHI: French military and intelligence officials claim that China deployed its defense attachés in embassies worldwide to spread doubts about the reliability and combat performance of France’s Rafale fighter jet, notably after its deployment during India‑Pakistan clashes in May.
According to a French intelligence assessment, Chinese embassy staff lobbied prospective and existing Rafale customer nations—including Indonesia—to reconsider or limit their purchases in favor of Chinese-made aircraft.
French authorities also denounced a broader disinformation campaign, citing social media posts, AI-generated imagery, and fabricated “Rafale debris” as part of a coordinated effort to tarnish the jet’s reputation.
More than 1,000 newly created accounts allegedly pushed narratives praising Chinese technological superiority.
While Beijing dismisses these allegations as baseless rumors, France alleges this campaign was designed not only to harm the Rafale’s sales, but also to weaken France’s image as a reliable defense partner and strategic ally in the Indo‑Pacific.
With over 533 Rafales sold globally, including 42 to Indonesia—which may expand its order—France views this challenge as central to the geopolitical competition in defense markets.
