Delivered in the F4.1 configuration, B374 will initially receive removable test and measurement equipment. Around the second quarter of 2027, Dassault Aviation is scheduled to carry out a major conversion, adding the interfaces needed for DGA Essais en vol to install permanent flight-test instrumentation.
The work will support testing of further F4 upgrades while preparing the aircraft for F5 trials. Its measurement systems, data recorders and link to ground-based test teams will allow engineers to assess equipment under real flight conditions.
On its return in 2028, B374 will incorporate an “orange” version of the modular information-processing system, using onboard-computer software specifically configured for testing. This will allow it to accommodate future F5 sensors, including the RBE2 XG next-generation radar now under development.
B374 is the first dedicated Rafale testbed assigned to DGA Essais en vol and will eventually replace B348, which is on long-term loan from the French Air and Space Force. The delivery forms part of the gradual renewal of the centre’s test fleet.
Built by Dassault Aviation, B374 is the 73rd and final aircraft in the Rafale programme’s fourth production tranche. DGA said that tranche was notified in 2021 to Dassault Aviation, Thales, Safran and MBDA.
