Findings from a French intelligence service seen by The Associated Press say defense attaches in China’s foreign embassies led a charge to undermine Rafale sales, seeking to persuade countries that have already ordered the French-made fighter — notably Indonesia — not to buy more and to encourage other potential buyers to choose Chinese-made planes. The findings were shared with AP by a French military official on condition that the official and the intelligence service not be named.
Add: I don’t think the ploy worked, as in 2025 Indonesia ordered more Rafales and subs from France.
Well, I get your gist. Funny how this action in this 2025 world seems more " sane", probably true.
Though we don’t know yet what kind of diplomatic pressure was used ( eg. ask The Philippines about greyzone pressure).
I also find it noteworthy that this info was only to be disclosed without mentioning which intelligence service was the source, and the headlines read " French intelligence "… But, I’m not expert.