Beyond Stealth: How the Rafale F5 is Redefining the 4.5-Generation Fighter

Complementing the radar is the Front Sector Optronics (FSO) system, a passive sensor that does not emit any signals of its own. Because it operates in the visible and infrared spectrums, the FSO is completely immune to radar jamming. It allows the pilot to identify and track enemy aircraft at significant distances without ever turning on their own radar, maintaining what is known as "silent" or "passive" tracking. This is a critical component of the Rafale's combat philosophy: seeing the enemy first while remaining electronically invisible, thereby dictated the terms of the engagement before the opponent even realizes a threat is present.