China Rejects French Claims of Undermining Rafale Jet Sales

Chinese military experts have dismissed recent claims from French intelligence alleging that China used its embassies to undermine sales of French-made Rafale jets, particularly following the India-Pakistan conflict earlier this year. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that she was unaware of the situation when questioned about the matter.

The Associated Press reported that findings from a French intelligence service indicated that defense attachés in Chinese foreign embassies actively worked to dissuade countries that had already ordered the Rafale, such as Indonesia, from purchasing more. They also allegedly encouraged potential buyers to choose Chinese-made aircraft instead. This information was shared with the AP by a French military official who requested anonymity.

In response to the allegations, the Ministry of National Defense labeled the claims as "pure groundless rumors and slander." They emphasized China's consistent approach to military exports, highlighting its role in promoting regional and global peace and stability.

An international affairs expert from Beijing Foreign Studies University suggested that the claims are part of a smear campaign against China's diplomacy. The expert argued that the disinformation deliberately links social media activity to Chinese state behavior and falsely connects China's normal defense exchanges with other countries to the challenges faced by Rafale sales.

The expert further stated that these claims disregard China's long-standing self-discipline in arms exports and its consistent support for Europe's strategic autonomy. The real objective, according to the expert, is to interfere with or even sabotage the stable development of China-Europe relations.

During the India-Pakistan clashes in May, reports emerged suggesting the use of Chinese-made J-10 aircraft by Pakistan to launch air-to-air missiles against Indian fighter jets. One report indicated that a French-made Rafale fighter aircraft was among those shot down.

At the recent Paris Air Show, the Chinese J-10CE fighter jet garnered significant international attention. Its presence alongside the Rafale sparked discussions about which aircraft was superior. A spokesperson from the Aviation Industry Corporation of China stated that both aircraft are advanced fighters and expressed hope that all cutting-edge fighter jets could contribute to global peace.

Chinese military affairs experts have stated that China's Foreign Ministry and Ministry of National Defense have never made any official comments on the performance of fighter jets during the India-Pakistan conflict. They also stated that the French accusations against Chinese diplomatic institutions are not in line with the facts.