India-France Relations / Mega deal of 26 Rafale marine fighter jets for Navy approved

India-France Relations: India has achieved another major achievement in the defense sector by giving the green signal to a mega deal for the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine (Rafale-M) fighter aircraft from France. According to government sources, the deal is worth more than Rs 63,000 crore and will be formally signed in the near future. This deal is going to give new dimensions to the strength of the Indian Navy.

Indian Navy will get state-of-the-art combat skills

Under this deal, the Indian Navy will get 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater Rafale Marine aircraft. These aircraft will be operated from India's two major aircraft carriers—INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. Currently, these carriers depend on old aircraft like MiG-29K, which are now becoming inadequate for modern warfare requirements. The deployment of Rafale Marine will provide state-of-the-art combat capabilities to the Navy.

A big step towards strategic advantage

This deal is not only a part of defense modernization, but it will also strengthen India's strategic position. This acquisition will give India a decisive edge amid the increasing military activities of neighboring countries like China and Pakistan. The arrival of Rafale Marine will give India the capability of more effective surveillance and quick response on maritime borders.

Delivery timeline of Rafale M

The delivery of Rafale Marine jets is expected to begin from the end of 2029, i.e. about 5 years after the deal is signed. India will receive all 26 aircraft by 2031. These aircraft are specially designed to protect the Indian maritime area and are suitable for operations in various war situations.

Strengthening synergy between IAF and IN

It is worth noting that the Indian Air Force is already successfully operating 36 Rafale jets at its Ambala and Hashimara airbases. Now that the Navy is also getting the Rafale Marine version, the technical synergy and coordination between the three forces will improve. This will give a significant boost to India's combined military strength.