IAF Rafale Jets Perform Spectacular Maneuvers with Meteor Missiles, Silencing Critics

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has released a striking video on Republic Day showcasing its fighter jets armed with advanced missiles, firmly countering claims from Pakistan and some Western media regarding India’s aerial capabilities. The footage features Rafale, Su-30MKI, and Tejas aircraft equipped with Meteor and BrahMos missiles, similar to those used in the 2019 Balakot airstrikes and last year’s Operation Sindoor.

Dispelling Doubts
Critics had previously questioned whether India possessed beyond-visual-range (BVR) Meteor missiles. The IAF’s newly released video, shared on X, clearly shows Rafale, Su-30MKI, and indigenous Tejas fighters loaded with these high-end missiles, performing complex maneuvers at high altitudes. The video decisively dispels all doubts and serves as a strong rebuttal to the hollow claims of Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir.

Meteor: Next-Generation Air-to-Air Missile
The Meteor is a state-of-the-art BVR air-to-air missile designed for precise engagement in 21st-century aerial combat. It can simultaneously target multiple enemy aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles at distances exceeding 200 km. Powered by a solid-fuel ramjet motor, the Meteor can achieve speeds greater than Mach 4, creating the largest “no-escape zone” of any air-to-air missile system. Its fragmentation warhead ensures maximum lethality, far surpassing conventional medium-range missiles.

Rafale Deal and Advanced Arsenal
India signed a deal with France in September 2016 for 36 Rafale jets worth €7.87 billion. These aircraft were delivered with cutting-edge missile and weapon systems, including Meteor and SCALP missiles. While there was initial speculation about whether the Rafales came fully equipped with Meteor missiles, the IAF’s video confirms the jets’ full operational capability.

Another clip shows a Tejas fighter launching a Meteor missile, while a Mirage 2000 fully loaded with missiles—similar to those used in the 2019 Balakot strike—is also featured. The IAF also showcased the Rampage air-to-surface missile, renowned for its precision strike capabilities. During Operation Sindoor, Su-30MKI jets successfully deployed Rampage missiles, further highlighting India’s growing aerial strike proficiency.

The videos reinforce the IAF’s readiness and technological edge, sending a clear message to adversaries and critics alike: India’s air power is fully modernized, lethal, and battle-ready.