The Rafale is a stealth fighter. The Rafale was built for the French Air Force. They are our customer. Their approach is different from the one use in the F-35. The French Air Force has focused on a concept it calls "low observability". They define low observability as being a mix of stealth, passive weapon-system management and optimization of mission paths.
Let me explain. The Rafale's stealth features lie in its design, engineering, radar-absorbing coating and so-called hot-spot treatment. In addition, the Rafale is equipped with an optimized sensor system, which can be operated in passive mode during a mission to avoid detection. The Rafale's sophisticated, optimized low-level terrain following feature ensures a high mission success rate.