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F-35 Lightning II vs Rafale

Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II combat aircraft side profile drawing
🇺🇸 F-35 Lightning II
Dassault Rafale combat aircraft side profile drawing
🇫🇷 Rafale
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Specifications
F-35 Lightning II Rafale
Origin country 🇺🇸 United States 🇫🇷 France
Category Combat Aircraft Combat Aircraft
Manufacturer Lockheed Martin Dassault
First flight 15 December 2006 4 July 1986
Year introduced 2013 2001
Number produced 965 units 316 units
Average unit price $85 million $115 million
Wing area 43.0 m² 45.7 m²
Wingspan 11.0 m 10.9 m
Height 4.4 m 5.3 m
Length 15.6 m 15.3 m
Maximum speed 1960 km/h 1912 km/h
Operational range 2,800 km 1,850 km
Service ceiling 15,000 m 15,835 m
Max. takeoff weight 27,216 kg 24,500 kg
Empty weight 14,651 kg 9,850 kg
Total thrust 1 x 19,500 kgf 2 x 7,650 kgf
Performance Radar Chart
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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is faster, the F-35 Lightning II or Rafale?
The F-35 Lightning II is faster with a maximum speed of 1,960 km/h compared to the Rafale's 1,912 km/h, a difference of 48 km/h.
Which has longer range, the F-35 Lightning II or Rafale?
The F-35 Lightning II has a longer range at 2,800 km compared to the Rafale's 1,850 km.
Which can fly higher, the F-35 Lightning II or Rafale?
The Rafale has a higher service ceiling at 15,835 meters (51,952 ft) compared to the F-35 Lightning II's 15,000 meters (49,212 ft).
Which is heavier, the F-35 Lightning II or Rafale?
The F-35 Lightning II has a higher maximum takeoff weight at 27,216 kg compared to the Rafale's 24,500 kg.
Which is larger, the F-35 Lightning II or Rafale?
The F-35 Lightning II is longer at 15.6 meters compared to the Rafale's 15.3 meters.
Which is more expensive, the F-35 Lightning II or Rafale?
The Rafale is more expensive at approximately $115 million per unit compared to the F-35 Lightning II at $85 million.
Which entered service first, the F-35 Lightning II or Rafale?
The Rafale entered service first in 2001, 12 years before the F-35 Lightning II which entered service in 2013.
Which has been built in greater numbers, the F-35 Lightning II or Rafale?
The F-35 Lightning II has been produced in greater numbers with 965 units compared to 316 units of the Rafale.