Dassault tests sovereign AI on Rafale as new algorithms move closer to integration in future fighter upgrades

Dassault Aviation flight-tested two sovereign artificial-intelligence algorithms aboard a Rafale fighter, one developed internally and one produced with Thales through its cortAIx organization. The company said the software has reached sufficient maturity to be considered for future aircraft standards, while withholding mission-specific details that could reveal sensitive functions or performance. Dassault framed the technology as controlled decision support for flight crews rather than pilot replacement, emphasizing the challenges of embedded computing, certified integration and safe, reliable operation over time within the fighter's constrained onboard environment.