Context:
India and France have officially concluded an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) valued at nearly ₹64,000 crore for the procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets for the Indian Navy. The signing ceremony was conducted remotely by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu.
Key Details
- Agreement Type: Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA)
- Aircraft Ordered: 26 Rafale-M fighter jets
- Total Value: Approx. ₹64,000 crore
- Delivery Schedule: Commences mid-2028, completes by 2030
- Training: Crew training to be conducted both in France and India
Scope of the Deal
- Simulator Systems and Equipment: Comprehensive simulation and support equipment included
- Weapon Systems: Package includes weapons for operational deployment
- Performance-Based Logistics: Maintenance and availability support for the Rafale-M fleet
- Technology Transfer: Integration of indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles onto Rafale platforms
- Support for Indian Air Force: Additional equipment for existing IAF Rafale jets
Industrial and Economic Benefits
- Manufacturing Boost:
- Establishment of a Rafale fuselage production facility in India
- Setting up of MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) hubs for engines, sensors, and weapons
- Employment Opportunities:
- Thousands of new jobs expected across the defence ecosystem
- Significant revenue generation opportunities for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
Strategic Significance
- Strengthens Indian Navy’s maritime strike capabilities
- Deepens Indo-French strategic defence cooperation
- Supports ‘Make in India’ and indigenous defence modernization goals
