Dassault CEO sets 2-3 week deadline for Belgian Rafale deal
Source: reuters.com
- Dassault Aviation's CEO says the company has two to three weeks to finalize a deal for Franco-Belgian Rafale jets.
- Belgium must decide between 34 Rafales or F-35s amid U.S. pressure and French diplomatic efforts.
- A deal would boost Dassault sales but risks tensions if Belgium picks U.S. jets instead.
Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier stated the firm is giving itself two to three weeks to seal a contract for Rafale fighter jets with Belgium. Belgium faces a choice between buying 34 French Rafales or U.S. F-35s, complicated by American lobbying and French government intervention. This matters because it pits European defense unity against transatlantic ties, potentially affecting jobs, sales, and military alliances.