Context:
India has formally concluded a ₹64,000 crore deal with France for 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets, enhancing the Indian Navy’s combat capabilities and preparing both INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant for full fighter jet deployment by 2030. Minor modifications to aircraft and carriers will be required to ensure seamless operations.
Key Highlights:
Deal Finalisation and Delivery Timeline
- Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) signed on April 28, 2025 between India and France.
- Procurement includes:
- 22 single-seater Rafale-Ms
- 4 twin-seater trainer versions
- Delivery schedule:
- Begins: Q2 2028
- Completed: End of 2030
- Package includes training, simulators, weapons, associated equipment, and 5-year performance-based logistics (PBL).
- Deal value: ~₹64,000 crore (includes support equipment for existing IAF Rafales).
Significance for Indian Navy
- Once inducted, Rafale-M will complete the fighter complement for both Indian aircraft carriers.
- Will significantly enhance India’s maritime power projection, especially in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Offers improved interoperability with Western naval forces, bolstering India’s naval diplomacy and multilateral operations.
The Rafale-M acquisition marks a strategic leap for Indian naval aviation, ensuring full fighter capacity on both carriers by 2030. Backed by intelligent budgeting and intergovernmental collaboration, this deal underscores India’s focus on blue water capabilities, indigenous carrier readiness, and modern air power integration.
