Colombia selects Rafale to replace Kfir fighters

French Air Force Rafale fighters.

The government of Colombia is looking to buy 16 Dassault Rafale multi-role fighters for a deal worth nearly 2.96 billion euros. This choice is the result of a selection process that also involved Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon and Saab Gripen aircraft. If the deal is finalised, the first aircraft will be delivered in 2023.

According to the Colombian government, it is a pre-negotiation. It is the continuation of a process that began 12 years ago through the Ministry of Defense and the Colombian Air Force. Dassault's proposal was found to be the best option in terms of price, efficiency and operability. Funding for the purchase of the French-made aircraft will come from a 20-year credit provided by the French government, which includes a five-year grace period before payments start.

Colombian officials have highlighted that a flight hour of the Rafale is about 30% cheaper than the current Kfir fighter. The Rafale has been selected to replace the 18 Kfirs currently in service with the Colombian Air Force.

Written by Matteo Sanzani