Oman Shows Interest in Dassault Rafale Jets

Oman has reportedly expressed a keen interest in procuring Dassault Rafale jets, marking a potential departure from its existing fleet dominated by American aircraft and Eurofighter Typhoons.

Sources close to the matter revealed to French publication LA Tribune that Oman, nestled along the Arabian Sea with Yemen as its neighbor, has initiated discussions regarding the acquisition of Rafale combat aircraft.

Dassault Aviation is reportedly cautiously optimistic about the prospects, acknowledging ongoing dialogues with Omani authorities. With a focus on securing orders of modest size, ranging between 12 and 18 aircraft, Dassault aims to supplement its existing delivery commitments, including substantial contracts with the United Arab Emirates (80), France (42), Indonesia (42), and potentially Saudi Arabia.

While both Dassault Aviation and Omani authorities have refrained from providing detailed comments, the potential transition to Rafale jets reflects Oman's strategic calculus amidst evolving regional dynamics and emerging security challenges.

Oman's military fleet currently includes American aircraft alongside the Typhoon. Back in 2001, the United States facilitated the sale of 12 F-16 C/FD aircraft and other military assets totaling $1.12 billion to the Royal Air Force of Oman. Subsequently, in 2011, Lockheed Martin secured a follow-up contract for an additional 12 F-16s.

In December 2012, BAE Systems inked a deal valued at around £2.5 billion (€3 billion) with Oman for 12 Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets along with eight Hawk training aircraft.