Dassault Signs Rafale Cooperation Pact in Portugal

Dassault Aviation, representing Rafale partners Thales and Safran, signed a memorandum of understanding with AED Cluster Portugal to explore industrial cooperation as Portugal considers replacing its Air Force’s F-16 fighters. The agreement builds on the partners’ official Rafale bid submitted to Portugal in July 2026 and their existing presence in the country. It seeks to expand collaboration with Portuguese companies, universities and research institutions, potentially strengthening the local aerospace and defense supply chain, supporting economic growth and reinforcing Portugal’s industrial and defense sovereignty. AED Cluster Portugal represents more than 180 organizations across the country’s aeronautics, space and defense sectors, but the agreement does not indicate that Portugal has selected the Rafale.