Sarkozy promotes Rafale jet in Brazil

Nicolas Sarkozy is on a mission to promote French-made fighter jets.

The French President is in Brazil for a two-day visit to discuss a host of issues.

But high on the agenda is Paris’ hopes to convince Brazil to opt for a jet made by Dassault Aviation.

Brazil has called for tenders for 36 fighter planes for its air force, sparking hot competition between French, US and Swedish rivals.

Dassault’s Rafale jet has so far never been exported outside of France.

Also hoping to win the Brazilian contract is Boeing with its Super Hornet F18 aircraft and Saab’s Gripen NG.

On Thursday the Brazilian Senate approved a multi-billion euro deal in which France will help Brazil build more than 50 helicopters and nuclear-propelled submarines.

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tags: Brazil, France, Military