A senior French naval commander has confirmed that Pakistan downed Indian Rafale fighter jets during the May 2025 conflict. He says the losses were caused by Indian pilot error, not Rafale faults. He adds that Pakistan’s air defence worked with strong precision and planning.
Captain Jacques Launay made the remarks at an Indo-Pacific conference in Brussels. He commands the French Naval Air Base at Landivisiau, which hosts Rafales armed with nuclear-capable missiles. He has over 25 years of experience flying Rafales in missions across the Middle East, Africa and Europe.
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Launay said the Indian jets failed due to poor operational use. He stressed that Rafales can defeat Chinese aircraft if used correctly. He explained that the battle involved over 140 fighter jets and noted that Pakistan managed the situation more effectively than India.
He praised Pakistan’s air defence and credited the PAF for strong strategy and coordination. He rejected claims that Chinese aircraft caused the Rafale losses. Instead, he said Pakistan’s planning, radar use and defensive tactics shaped the outcome of the clash.
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Launay also revealed India’s interest in purchasing naval Rafales that can land on carriers and carry nuclear missiles. Experts say the conflict’s detailed analysis is drawing global attention. They believe it offers important lessons on pilots, aircraft performance and missile effectiveness in real combat conditions.