France tests how Rafale fighters can keep flying from civilian airports

Three Rafale fighter jets and two CASA CN235 transport aircraft were deployed by the French Air and Space Force for a dispersal exercise conducted at two civilian airports in France. This operational test evaluated the capabilities of the Rafale aircraft to maintain flight operations from non-military airfields. The exercise took place at Orly Airport and Toussus-le-Noble airfield, both located within the Île-de-France region. Military personnel assessed the logistical challenges associated with utilizing civil infrastructure for rapid deployment and sustained aerial missions. The primary objective was to validate procedures and equipment readiness for potential future scenarios involving dispersed basing.