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

In terms of lethality, the Rafale boasts a massive payload capacity across 14 external hardpoints. Its primary air-to-air weapon is the Meteor missile, a ramjet-powered beyond-visual-range (BVR) missile that is widely considered the best in its class. With a "no-escape zone" significantly larger than that of the American AMRAAM, the Meteor allows Rafale pilots to engage threats from distances where the enemy cannot effectively retaliate. Additionally, the Rafale carries the SCALP cruise missile for deep-strike missions, the Exocet for anti-ship operations, and the Hammer precision-guided munition for ground support, ensuring it can handle any modern battlefield scenario.