France is becoming the second-largest arms exporter globally

France has become the second-largest arms exporter in the world, surpassing Russia, primarily due to increased sales of the Dassault Rafale fighter jet. The report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute highlights that 42% of France's arms exports went to Asia and Oceania. The Rafale jet is in high demand, with significant orders from countries like India, Egypt, and Qatar. The UAE placed the largest order for 80 Rafale jets in 2021, while Saudi Arabia is considering purchasing 54 jets after the U.S. declined to sell its F-35 fighter. European nations are increasingly wary of U.S. foreign policy, leading them to seek alternatives like the Rafale. This shift has resulted in a surge in demand for the aircraft, with Dassault Aviation expecting to generate $6.5 billion in revenue from deliveries in 2025.