India Clears ₹63,000 Crore Deal for 26 Rafale-M Fighter Jets from France
In a significant enhancement of India’s naval aviation capabilities, the Indian government has given the green light to a ₹63,000 crore deal for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine (Rafale-M) fighter aircraft from France. This government-to-government agreement, mirroring the earlier Rafale acquisition for the Indian Air Force, is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, as reported by ANI.
Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale-M jets are specifically tailored for aircraft carrier operations and will be deployed on India’s aircraft carriers, thereby bolstering the Indian Navy’s aerial power. Sources indicate that the delivery timeline for the jets will range from 37 to 65 months post-contract finalization, with full operational induction anticipated by 2030-31.
This acquisition will not only enhance the Navy’s capabilities but also benefit the Indian Air Force (IAF) through upgraded features such as the “buddy-buddy” aerial refueling system. This system enables Rafale jets to refuel one another mid-flight, significantly extending their operational range and flexibility. Furthermore, the deal may include ground support equipment and software enhancements for the IAF’s existing Rafale fleet, promoting seamless integration between the Air Force and Navy variants.
The Rafale-Ms will complement the MiG-29K fighters currently stationed on the INS Vikramaditya, improving operational readiness. In parallel, the Indian Navy is also pursuing ambitious plans to induct indigenous twin-engine deck-based fighter jets, which are under development by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These fifth-generation naval fighters will work in tandem with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) being developed for the IAF.
This strategic acquisition not only deepens the defence partnership between India and France but also represents a crucial stride in modernizing India’s naval and aerial warfare capabilities.
Source: Economic Times
