Context:
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the purchase of 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets from France. The deal, valued at nearly ₹63,000 crore, is aimed at bolstering the Indian Navy’s carrier-based fighter fleet. This is India’s largest-ever naval fighter acquisition.
Deal Composition and Timeline
- The contract includes 22 single-seater Rafale-M Rafale-M fighter Jetsjets for carrier operations and 4 twin-seater trainer jets, which are not carrier-compatible.
- Delivery will start 3.5 years after signing and is expected to be completed in 6.5 years.
- The agreement is expected to be formally signed later this month during the French Defence Minister’s visit to India.
Complementing Existing Capabilities
- The Rafale-M jets will be deployed on INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier.
- They will complement the MiG-29K fighters currently operating on INS Vikramaditya, which has faced serviceability issues.
- The Indian Air Force already operates 36 Rafale aircraft, purchased under a ₹60,000 crore deal in 2016.
Background and Strategic Significance
- The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) granted initial approval for the deal in July 2023.
- During the Varuna naval exercise, Indian Navy officials observed Rafale-M operations on France’s aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.
- The deal strengthens India’s carrier strike capabilities, vital for securing interests in the Indian Ocean Region.
Submarine Deal Still Pending
- A separate deal for three additional Scorpene-class submarines with France is still awaiting CCS clearance.
- These diesel-electric submarines are expected to be built in collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and Naval Group of France.
The Rafale-M deal represents a major leap in India’s maritime air power. Once finalized, it will significantly enhance the Navy’s ability to project force across strategic waters, aligning with India’s long-term defense and security objectives.
