A covert disinformation campaign orchestrated by Chinese embassies sought to undermine France’s top-tier Rafale fighter jet in the wake of India-Pakistan clashes, according to French military and intelligence sources. The operation aimed to sabotage French arms deals while promoting Beijing’s own military hardware across the Indo-Pacific.
French intelligence reports say Chinese defense attachés stationed in foreign embassies actively spread false claims about Rafale jets’ performance, especially to countries like Indonesia—currently considering additional Rafale purchases. “The Rafale was not randomly targeted,” France’s Defense Ministry warned. “It represents a strategic French offering… and a national image of strategic autonomy, industrial reliability, and solid partnerships.”
Pakistan, a close Chinese ally, claimed its Chinese-made jets shot down three Rafales during the May skirmishes. While India confirmed aircraft losses, it did not specify how many. French Air Force Chief Gen. Jérôme Bellanger countered these claims, saying, “I’ve seen evidence pointing to just 3 Indian losses – a Rafale, a Russian-made Sukhoi and a Mirage 2000.”
The disinformation campaign reportedly used manipulated images, AI-generated content, and fake social media accounts to flood platforms with propaganda. “They certainly saw an opportunity to damage French sales prospects in the region,” said defense analyst Justin Bronk.
Beijing dismissed the allegations, calling them “pure groundless rumours and slander.” Yet, France views the attack not just as economic sabotage, but as an assault on national credibility and Western strategic influence in Asia.
