French Rafale Jets Deployed in UAE to Counter Drone Threats

France has deployed Rafale fighter jets over the UAE to protect its naval and air bases against Iranian attacks, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Wednesday.

In an interview, Barrot explained that the Rafales have already neutralised drones targeting Emirati airspace and French military facilities, and are stationed to continue protecting both UAE and French bases. France has hundreds of navy, air force, and army personnel based in the country, with Rafale aircraft operating from Dhafra Air Base near Abu Dhabi.

Barrot added that the aircraft and pilots are mobilised to ensure the security of French facilities. He also confirmed that on Sunday, a hangar at a French base in the UAE was hit by a drone, prompting operations to secure the airspace above the bases.