In a significant stride towards bolstering its maritime security and projecting power across the Indian Ocean, India is set to formalize a ₹63,000 crore (approximately $7 billion) agreement with France today for the acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets. This landmark government-to-government deal will equip the Indian Navy with a formidable edge, particularly for its aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and the indigenously built INS Vikrant.
The signing ceremony, though conducted remotely by the Defence Ministers of both nations, will be presided over in New Delhi by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and French Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou. This follows the crucial approval granted by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, earlier this month, underscoring the strategic importance of this acquisition.
The Rafale-M, the naval variant of the battle-proven Rafale aircraft already operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF), is considered one of the most capable fighters in its class globally. The ₹63,000 crore package includes 22 single-seater Rafale-M jets, designed for carrier operations, and four twin-seater trainer aircraft. The comprehensive deal also encompasses associated ancillary equipment, cutting-edge weaponry, simulators for pilot training, essential spares, detailed documentation, crew training programs, and robust logistic support to ensure high operational availability.
Deliveries of the Rafale-M are slated to commence in 2028-29, with the entire fleet of 26 aircraft expected to be inducted into the Indian Navy by 2031-32. This acquisition is strategically timed as the Navy plans to phase out its aging fleet of MiG-29K fighters in the coming years. The Rafale-M will serve as a crucial interim solution, enhancing the combat readiness of India’s aircraft carriers until the indigenous Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF), currently under development, becomes operational.
The selection of the Rafale-M followed a rigorous evaluation process that also considered Boeing’s F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet. The Rafale-M ultimately emerged as the preferred choice, partly due to the significant logistical advantages of having common spares, maintenance infrastructure, and support systems with the IAF’s existing Rafale fleet. This synergy is expected to streamline maintenance, reduce costs, and enhance the overall efficiency of India’s fighter jet operations.
This deal represents a significant deepening of the defence cooperation between India and France, a strategic partnership that has been steadily growing over the years. Both nations have prioritized co-production and co-development of military hardware, aligning with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative. The Rafale-M deal is expected to include provisions for the integration of Indian-made missiles, such as the Astra, further supporting India’s indigenous defence capabilities.
The acquisition of these advanced fighter jets will significantly boost the Indian Navy’s firepower and its ability to safeguard India’s maritime interests in the strategically crucial Indian Ocean region. The Rafale-M’s capabilities, including long-range precision strikes and advanced technology, will provide a potent deterrent and enhance the Navy’s operational reach.
Notably, this significant defence agreement comes shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his condolences to Prime Minister Modi following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the strong and multifaceted relationship between the two nations that extends beyond defence cooperation to mutual support in challenging times.
With this landmark deal, India and France reaffirm their commitment to a robust strategic partnership, contributing to regional stability and enhancing India’s position as a major maritime power. The induction of the Rafale-M into the Indian Navy marks a new chapter in India’s naval aviation capabilities, ensuring its dominance in the seas for decades to come.
