French intelligence officials alleged that China launched a coordinated campaign to discredit the Rafale fighter jet following its deployment by India during air clashes with Pakistan in May.
According to a report shared with the Associated Press by a French military official, Chinese defense attachés used diplomatic channels, particularly through embassies, to pressure countries that have purchased or are considering the Rafale, such as Indonesia, to cancel or reconsider their deals.
While French military sources said they could not conclusively tie the operations to the Chinese government, they noted that Chinese embassy officials echoed similar claims in direct meetings with foreign defense officials.
French officials said the incident also triggered a broader disinformation campaign coordinated by Pakistan and China. The campaign reportedly involved doctored images, AI-generated content, and fabricated combat footage, much of it disseminated through more than 1,000 newly created social media accounts.
The effort aimed to “promote the superiority of alternative equipment, notably of Chinese design,” according to France’s Defense Ministry.
The May confrontation between India and Pakistan, the most serious in years, involved dozens of aircraft. Pakistan claimed it downed five Indian jets, including three Rafales. India acknowledged losses but did not specify numbers.
French Air Force Chief Gen. Jérôme Bellanger confirmed the loss of three aircraft: a Rafale, a Sukhoi, and a Mirage 2000.
Meanwhile, China’s Ministry of National Defence dismissed France’s allegations as “groundless rumours and slander,” asserting that Beijing maintains a “prudent and responsible approach” to military exports.
