Procurement: December 31, 2000

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A report by the French parliament notes that the new Rafale fighter is years behind schedule and 30% over budget due to government efforts to save money by delaying the program. The Naval Rafale was due to enter service in 1996 but will reach the fleet in 2001. The Air Force version was due in 1998 but won't enter service until 2005.--Stephen V Cole