Rafale Jet Is Powerful If Used Smartly: AVM Aurangzeb

In a recent and widely-discussed statement, Air Vice Marshal Aurangzeb Ahmed of the Pakistan Air Force cleared the air around the capabilities of the Rafale fighter jet, often seen as a game-changer in the Indian Air Force’s arsenal.

Rather than criticizing the aircraft, AVM Aurangzeb provided a balanced, professional viewpoint—acknowledging Rafale's strength but emphasizing that even the best aircraft needs the right strategy, training, and leadership to be effective in battle.

• AVM Aurangzeb called Rafale a “potent aircraft if employed well.”

• He said Rafale is not a weak jet, but its performance depends on how it's used.

• The effectiveness of any aircraft lies in training and tactical use, not just technology.

• He praised the PAF’s strategy and hinted at superior planning during air engagements.

• His statement went viral and sparked debates across the media and social platforms.

Before diving deeper into his statement, it’s important to know the man behind it.

• Commissioned in 1992, AVM Aurangzeb is a senior officer in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).

• He has commanded a fighter squadron and a fighter base.

• He served in key roles at Air Headquarters, including in operational planning and development.

• Academically, he holds master’s degrees from China and Pakistan in military and strategic studies.

• He was honored with the Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Military) for his service.

Speaking at a press briefing, AVM Aurangzeb addressed questions about the Rafale aircraft’s role and performance in recent India-Pakistan air encounters.

Here are his key comments:

“Rafale is not a bad plane. It is an equally potent aircraft—if employed well. The outcome depends not on the aircraft alone but on the planning, direction, and training of those using it.”

This statement came in response to questions comparing the Rafale jets with Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunders, particularly in light of recent air skirmishes and regional tensions.

He didn’t dismiss the Rafale’s strength—in fact, he acknowledged its high capabilities—but strongly emphasized the importance of strategic planning and execution.

• International Interest: As India purchased Rafales from France as a major defense upgrade, any comment from Pakistan’s military about it draws international attention.

• Context of Regional Tensions: With ongoing India-Pakistan military and political tensions, every detail about air force capabilities becomes crucial.

• Shift From Technology to Tactics: AVM Aurangzeb’s words highlight that air warfare is not just about owning advanced jets, but knowing how to use them smartly.

The Dassault Rafale is a 4.5-generation multirole fighter aircraft built by France. Here’s why it’s considered one of the top aircraft globally:

• Radar & Sensors: Equipped with RBE2-AA AESA radar, known for long-range targeting

• Weapons: Can carry air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground bombs, nuclear weapons

• Stealth Features: Low radar signature

• Advanced Avionics: Real-time tactical awareness, data fusion, and electronic warfare capabilities

India signed a deal in 2016 to purchase 36 Rafale jets from France for over $8 billion, with expectations of boosting the Indian Air Force’s strength significantly.

According to AVM Aurangzeb, the mere possession of advanced jets doesn’t guarantee success in air battles.

His viewpoint was:

• Rafale did not change outcomes in any major way during recent skirmishes.

• Pakistani planning and readiness played a bigger role in air superiority.

• A plane is only as good as the pilot flying it and the command directing it.

“Even a powerful aircraft like Rafale cannot succeed if the strategy behind it is flawed or poorly executed.”

Military experts agree with AVM Aurangzeb’s analysis. Here are some professional insights:

• “Buying advanced jets is one thing. Deploying them effectively is another.”

• “Without real-time intelligence, strategic guidance, and training, even the best jets will underperform.”

• “Air superiority is a mix of aircraft quality, pilot skill, and mission planning.”

This statement reflects a shift in modern military thinking: the focus is no longer just on having the best machines but also on operational excellence.

AVM Aurangzeb’s words carry wisdom. Instead of dismissing the Rafale, he recognized its potential—but only when backed by training, leadership, and tactical brilliance.

In air combat, aircraft performance is not just defined by hardware, but by how smartly it's used.

“Rafale is a good plane. But to make it truly dangerous, you need the right hands and the right mind behind it.”