Dassault’s upcoming Rafale F5 variant may gain the ability to carry six Meteor air-to-air missiles instead of the current four, greatly strengthening long-range combat capability. The change is linked to the more powerful M88 T-REX engine, designed to compensate for aerodynamic penalties from extra missiles. With more available shots and Meteor’s large no-escape zone, the aircraft would become a stronger air superiority platform. India could benefit if future MRFA acquisitions include F5-standard jets.
