In a major boost to India's maritime defence capabilities, the government on Monday finalized a ₹63,000 crore deal to procure 26 Rafale M fighter jets from France, marking a record-breaking government-to-government defence agreement.
Key Details of the Deal:
Aircraft Ordered: 22 single-seater Rafale M fighters and 4 twin-seater trainer variants
Delivery Timeline: Expected to be completed by 2031
Inclusions: Fleet maintenance, logistical support, training, and indigenous component manufacturing under offset commitments aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative
The Rafale M, currently operated only by the French Navy, is considered one of the most advanced naval fighters in the world. It features:
Reinforced landing gear from the Safran Group
Folding wings for carrier compatibility
Tailhooks and a reinforced undercarriage for deck landings
These jets will be deployed on INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, replacing the ageing MiG-29K fleet and significantly enhancing India's naval air strike capabilities in the Indian Ocean and beyond.
Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi had previously stated India is ready to tackle any threats in its area of operations, and this strategic acquisition aligns with that assertion.
The Indian Air Force, which already operates 36 Rafale jets, will also benefit from the technology, especially with potential integration of the ‘buddy-buddy’ aerial refuelling system—enhancing mission endurance and operational reach.
Additionally, the Navy is also eyeing the future with plans to induct indigenous fifth-generation fighter jets being developed by the DRDO, further bolstering self-reliance in defence technology.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)