China Ran Campaign To Damage Rafale's Image After India-Pakistan Conflict: Report

Last Updated:July 06, 2025, 20:59 IST

India used Rafales during the May conflict with Pakistan, which was one of the most serious military exchanges between the two nuclear neighbours in years

This photograph shows mock ups of Rafale fighter jets during the 55th edition of the Paris Air Show. (AFP file photo)

China orchestrated a campaign, using its embassies, to damage the reputation and sales of the French-made Rafale fighter jet following its combat debut during India’s May clashes with Pakistan, according to French intelligence officials.

As per the findings from a French intelligence service seen by the Associated Press, defence attaches at various Chinese embassies actively cast doubt upon the Rafale’s combat performance. Their goal, officials say, was to convince existing buyers, such as Indonesia, not to buy more, and to persuade other potential customers to choose Chinese-made alternatives

The Rafale, built by Dassault Aviation, is a key part of France’s defence exports. It has been sold to eight countries and plays a major role in France’s military partnerships, especially in Asia, where China is growing in influence.

India used Rafales during the May conflict with Pakistan, which was one of the most serious military exchanges between the two nuclear neighbours in years. Pakistan later claimed it had downed five Indian aircraft, including three Rafales. India acknowledged losses but didn’t confirm the numbers.

French Air Force Chief Gen. Jérôme Bellanger said available evidence shows three Indian aircraft were lost: one Rafale, one Russian Sukhoi and one Mirage 2000, another French jet. It marked the first known combat loss of a Rafale.

Following the clash, countries that operate Rafales began raising questions about the jet’s combat performance. French officials say that a disinformation campaign—linked to both China and Pakistan—spread quickly online. This included fake videos, AI-generated content, and even video game footage made to look like real combat. Thousands of new social media accounts pushed the message that Chinese military technology was superior.

French officials have not directly linked the online efforts to the Chinese government. However, French intelligence says Chinese embassy staff echoed the same narrative during meetings with defence officials in other countries, including those considering Rafale purchases.

Beijing denied the allegations. China’s defence ministry said the claims were “groundless rumours and slander," insisting it maintains a responsible policy on arms exports.

France’s Defence Ministry responded by saying that Rafale was the target of a “vast campaign of disinformation." The ministry added that the attack was not just against an aircraft but aimed at undermining France’s defence credibility and industrial strength.

Dassault has sold 533 Rafales globally, with 323 of them going to countries such as Egypt, India, the UAE, Greece, and Indonesia. Indonesia, which has already ordered 42 jets, is reportedly considering more.

Experts say China’s goal may be to weaken France’s growing security ties in Asia. According to Justin Bronk, a military analyst at the Royal United Services Institute in London, the campaign was likely designed to limit Western influence in the Indo-Pacific and promote China’s defence industry instead.

“They certainly saw an opportunity to damage French sales prospects in the region," Bronk said.

(With inputs from AP)

France

News world China Ran Campaign To Damage Rafale's Image After India-Pakistan Conflict: Report