Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 9: In a landmark decision, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved a Rs 63,000 crore government-to-government deal with France for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets for the Indian Navy, marking India’s largest-ever naval fighter jet acquisition.
According to government sources, the contract includes 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater Rafale-M jets. The agreement also covers a comprehensive package comprising fleet maintenance support, personnel training, logistical backing, and offset clauses that will encourage indigenous manufacturing and technology transfer.
The advanced Rafale-M jets, specially designed for aircraft carrier operations, are expected to be deployed on the INS Vikrant—India’s first indigenously-built aircraft carrier. The delivery of the aircraft is projected to begin around five years after the contract is officially signed. These new fighters will augment the Navy’s current MiG-29K fleet, which continues to operate from INS Vikramaditya.
This deal is expected to enhance interoperability and combat readiness, as the Indian Air Force (IAF) already operates 36 Rafale jets from bases in Ambala and Hashimara. The acquisition will also facilitate upgrades to the IAF’s aerial refueling capability through the “buddy-buddy” system, allowing about 10 Rafale jets to refuel other aircraft mid-air, thus extending their operational range.
Defence officials also indicated that the Rafale-M purchase would be accompanied by software enhancements and additional ground infrastructure for both Navy and IAF fleets. Specialized equipment will be installed on aircraft carriers to ensure seamless operations of the 4.5-generation Rafale-M fighters.
Looking ahead, the Indian Navy plans to bolster its fleet further with indigenous fifth-generation twin-engine deck-based fighter jets, being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These will be naval variants of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project underway for the IAF.
The Rafale-M induction marks a significant leap in India’s maritime combat capabilities, strengthening its position in the Indo-Pacific region and enhancing its preparedness for future challenges.