China Uses Diplomatic Channels to Undermine Rafale Fighter Jet Deals

China is using its diplomatic network to undermine sales of French Rafale fighter jets by promoting its own military aircraft instead, according to French intelligence cited by the Associated Press.

Documents shared with journalists indicate that defense attachés at Chinese embassies have led a targeted campaign against the Rafale.

The effort aims to dissuade countries that have already purchased the aircraft—including Indonesia—from placing additional orders, and to steer potential buyers toward Chinese alternatives.

The campaign comes amid recent tensions between India and Pakistan, during which Pakistan claimed that Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets engaged Indian Rafale and Mirage 2000 jets.

India’s Ministry of Defense confirmed the loss of two French-made aircraft — a Rafale and a Mirage 2000 — while Pakistan claimed it shot down three Rafales.

France markets the Rafale as a potential alternative to the U.S.-made F-35, which some countries are reconsidering. Dassault Aviation, the aircraft’s manufacturer, has expressed interest in offering the Rafale to Portugal and Canada.