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Dec 24, 2022

Colombia will replace Kfirs fleet with Rafales


The IAI Kfir of the Colombian Air Force (FAC) would be replaced by 16 Dassault Rafale, for a value of USD 3.15 billion, as confirmed 
Colombian Minister of Defense, over the proposals of the F-16 Block 70/72 and the Gripen E.

The Kfir of the FAC will begin to be decommissioned next year. The aircrafts have more than 40 years on service and Colombia is the only active operator of the model, with a very high maintenance cost and spare parts are difficult to obtain.



Minister affirmed that the Rafale has a flight hour cost 30% cheaper than that of the current Kfir, and the is a cheaper acquisition than the F-16 Block 70.

Colombia is currently negotiating with Francethe terms of the purchase. The acquisition of a first batch of between three and five Rafale, is expected to arrive during 2023 and the complete fleet of 16 aircraft will be implemented over the next 10 years.

That the Rafale could start arriving in 2023 may be indicative that these units could come from the French Air and Space Force stocks, similar to what was offered to Greece and Croatia.

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