You need to buy the Rafale, it s better for France and Europe, not so good for the US,but excellent for the british tax payers - rduarte
If the new carriers were coming into service now, or a few years ago, then you would have a point, but since they won't be on the scene until sometime after 2012..........how long will the Rafale have been in service?
Compatibility with the French Navy is unlikely to be a major issue, nor is compatibility with the Americans. Compatibility with the RAF is the deciding factor, and they want a V/STOL aircraft after the Harrier, which means F35B.
By all means say you think we should get equipment from Thales, DCN, or even Dassault, but why are you so rude?