Safran, the leading French aerospace engine manufacturer, has officially launched an upgraded M88 T-REX engine variant, specifically designed to power the future iterations of the Dassault Rafale fighter jet. This significant development promises a substantial increase in thrust, ensuring the Rafale remains a cutting-edge combat aircraft well into the next decade.
The new M88 T-REX engine is engineered to deliver a remarkable 20 percent increase in thrust compared to the current M88 power plant. This critical boost in power addresses the growing demands of future Rafale variants, collectively known as Rafale 5, allowing for the integration of more advanced systems without compromising the aircraft’s fundamental performance or requiring a redesign of its airframe.
The enhanced thrust is vital for accommodating a new generation of sensors, sophisticated communication systems, and advanced digital processing equipment that will define the Rafale 5. The M88 T-REX incorporates a series of internal upgrades, including greater airflow intake, the use of innovative new materials, refined cooling circuits, and an optimized nozzle design, all contributing to its improved performance.
Crucially, Safran emphasizes that the new engine will retain the core advantages that have made the current M88 a success. These include its compact size, modularity for ease of maintenance, exceptional fuel efficiency, and a competitive cost of ownership—factors that are highly valued by military operators worldwide.
The qualification process for the M88 T-REX engine is strategically aligned with the planned induction of the Rafale F5 variant in the early 2030s. This synchronized development ensures that the next generation of the Rafale will enter service with a propulsion system perfectly matched to its enhanced capabilities, reinforcing its position as a leading multirole fighter on the global stage. This engine upgrade signifies France’s commitment to continuous innovation in military aviation.