French KC-130J Refuels Rafale Fighter for First Time in UAE Exercise
French Air & Space Force Achieves Historic Refueling Milestone with KC-130J and Rafale
For the first time in operational history, a French Air & Space Force KC-130J Super Hercules has successfully refueled a Dassault Rafale fighter jet in flight. This landmark achievement occurred during the Gulf25 bilateral exercise between France and the United Arab Emirates, as announced by the Air & Space Force on December 4, 2025.
The demonstration, executed from Air Base 104 Al Dhafra, represents a significant expansion of the KC-130J’s operational capabilities. The aircraft, which arrived in French service in 2020 and 2021, has previously focused on supporting special operations units, helicopter refueling, and tactical transport missions. Integrating fast-jet refueling capabilities marks a transformative step in the tanker’s employment profile.
Operational Flexibility and Strategic Implications
French military officials characterized this achievement as a critical development for operational flexibility. While the Airbus A330 MRTT Phénix fleet manages the majority of conventional fast-jet refueling, the KC-130J’s new capability provides complementary options. The expanded role opens possibilities for supporting strike packages and forward-based detachments with greater tactical responsiveness.
The mission involved aircraft from the Brigade Aérienne d’Assaut et de Projection and personnel from fighter unit EC 1/7 ‘Provence.’ The successful operation validates the technical compatibility between the KC-130J’s refueling systems and the Rafale’s receiving equipment, paving the way for integration into standard operational procedures.
Fleet Overview and Operational History
France maintains four Super Hercules aircraft: two KC-130J tankers and two C-130J-30 transports. These aircraft are operated by the 62e Escadre de Transport at Orléans-Bricy. Prior to this milestone, the KC-130J fleet maintained certification for helicopter refueling, including operations with the H225M Caracal during extended-range missions. The successful Rafale refueling extends this proven capability to fixed-wing combat aircraft.
Gulf25 Exercise Context
The trial occurred within the framework of Gulf25, one of the largest recurring bilateral exercises between France and the UAE. This year’s iteration featured comprehensive air operations including air-to-air training, combined strike missions, and mixed formation operations involving Rafale fighters, UAE F-16E/F Block 60 aircraft, and supporting enablers.
French military leadership emphasized that Gulf25 exemplifies the “strategic and tactical intimacy” between the UAE Air Force and Air Defense and French forces. The exercise remains central to maintaining interoperability and advancing joint operational capabilities across the region.
French Presence in the Gulf
Since 2008, Air Base 104 has served as France’s permanent operational foothold in the United Arab Emirates. The installation has hosted rotating fighter squadrons over the years, including Mirage 2000-5 and Rafale units. EC 1/7 ‘Provence’ established permanent station at BA 104 in 2016, solidifying France’s long-term strategic presence and supporting regional operations alongside UAE partners.
Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764943246245-1189