France Deploys Rafale Jets to Counter Iranian Drone Threats in UAE

French Rafale fighter jets have been deployed to intercept Iranian drones over the UAE, with around 60 drones shot down according to reports from La Tribune. The rapid depletion of MICA air-to-air missiles highlights a familiar air defense problem, with cheaper alternatives under study by the DGA. France is not alone in looking for cost-effective solutions, with Belgium testing Thales’ FZ275 LGR on F-16s for counter-drone missions.