Rafale F3R HAF – The Complete Guide to Modeling the Greek Rafale

The Dassault Rafale F3R is the crown jewel of the Hellenic Air Force’s modern arsenal. For scale modelers, it represents not only a visually striking aircraft but also a rewarding challenge. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to recreate the Greek version of the Rafale in any scale—from kits and paint schemes to decals, weapon configurations, conversions, and detailing sets.

1. Key Differences Between Greek and French Rafale

Although the HAF Rafales are based on the French Air Force’s Rafale C (F3R standard), several visual and technical differences set them apart:

• Omission of naval details (no arrestor hook)

• Hellenic Air Force roundels and serials (e.g. 410, 412)

• Custom loadouts including SCALP EG, Meteor, and Exocet

• Antiskid panels on wing roots

• Slight differences in ECM and antenna fit

To create an accurate Greek Rafale, you’ll need to incorporate these elements during your build.

2. Available Kits by Scale

1/72 Scale

• Italeri Rafale C/M: Basic but workable. Needs conversion.

• HobbyBoss Rafale C: Crisper panel lines, easier assembly.

1/48 Scale

• Revell Rafale C: Great base kit with minor inaccuracies.

• Kinetic Rafale M: Detailed naval variant, requires conversion to C version.

• HobbyBoss Rafale B: Twin-seat version, suitable for “what-if” HAF training jet.

1/32 Scale

• No HAF-specific kits available yet. You can start from Revell or Trumpeter and apply custom conversions.

3. Paint Colors & FS Equivalents (with Visual Swatches)

Greek Rafales are painted in a two-tone grey camouflage:

• FS 26293 (medium grey) for upper surfaces

• FS 36375 (light ghost grey) for the underside

• Additional tones used for radomes and panels: FS 36320 and FS 37038

Here is a detailed conversion table with major hobby paint brands:

Color Guide for Greek Rafale Paints

4. Decals & Stencils

For a true Greek version, decals are essential:

• Syhart Decals: 1/72 and 1/48 with accurate Greek markings and stencils

• ModelMaker Decals: Clean design and high resolution

• DXM Decals: High-quality alternatives for generic Rafale insignia

• Custom masks or dry transfers may be used for specific serial numbers

5. Upgrade Sets & Aftermarket Accessories

• Cockpit Details: Eduard Zoom, Quinta Studios (3D), Aires resin

• Exhausts / Nozzles: ResKit, Eduard Brassin

• Canopy Masks: Eduard, New Ware

• Weapons & Pylons: SCALP EG, Meteor, Exocet, MICA from Kinetic, ResKit, Hasegawa sets

6. HAF Rafale Weapons & Loadouts

For a realistic build, match loadouts seen in HAF exercises (e.g. “Parmenion”HNIOHOS  ) or air shows.

7. Figures & Diorama Accessories

To add realism to your build:

• Reedoak: Modern HAF ground crew (resin)

• PJ Productions: Seated or standing Rafale pilots

• DEF Model / Black Dog: Diorama bases, ladders, power carts, fuel tanks

Consider displaying your model on a section of a Hellenic Air Base apron with maintenance crew figures.

8. Converting French Rafale Kits into HAF Configuration

Most kits are based on French variants. Here’s how to convert them:

1. Remove naval features (e.g., arrestor hook, catapult fittings)

2. Replace markings with HAF roundels and serials

3. Paint in FS 26293 / 36375 two-tone grey scheme

4. Adjust pylon and weapons layout to match Greek loadouts

5. Add scratch-built antiskid panels on wing roots

6. Upgrade cockpit with appropriate display or HUD decals (optional)

Dry-fitting and planning ahead are critical to avoid fit issues after modification.

9. Advanced Inspiration: Liakis’ F3.3 Concept Rafale

Greek modeler Panagiotis Liakis built a stunning 1/48 Rafale F3.3 “what-if” concept featuring:

• SCALP + MICA combo load

• Custom Greek stencils and serials

• Realistic weathering and panel fading

• Resin upgrades and scratch detailing

It’s a showcase build for those looking to push realism further.

10. Reference Sources & Reading Material

• “Rafale in Action” – Squadron Signal Publications

• “Dassault Rafale” – Daco Publications

• HAF Official Rafale Page

• RedStar.gr – Rafale F3R HAF Overview

• Liakis Build Gallery

11. Conclusion

The Greek Rafale F3R is more than just a fighter jet. It’s a symbol of air superiority—and in modeling, it offers the opportunity to create a show-stopping centerpiece. With the right kits, paints, decals, and details, you can build a replica that’s not only authentic but emotionally powerful.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned builder, the Rafale in HAF colors is a project worth taking on.

Need the right supplies to start your build?

👉 Visit eshop.gmodelart.com for curated kits, paints, decals, accessories, and figures, all selected by modelers for modelers.

F-1CG Mirage HAF By:Doxas Yiannis