Rafale M (PC: X/@CcibChris)
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi-chaired Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) gave approval for the procurement of 26 Rafale (Marine), the naval variant of France’s Rafale for the Indian Navy.
Sources in the defence ministry said that the deal worth ₹63,000 crore would be signed soon under the government-to-government agreement.
The deal include 22 single-seater and four twin-seater fighter aircraft, along with a comprehensive package for fleet maintenance, logistical support, personnel training, and indigenous manufacturing components under offset obligations.
The deal also includes training for Navy personnel.
According to the report, France’s Dassault Aviation would begin delivering the fighter in four years after the deal signed. The Navy is likely to receive the first batch by the end of 2029, with the entire order set to be completed by 2031.
These advanced fighter jets will operate from India’s aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant, replacing the ageing MiG-29K fleet.
The Rafale (M), specifically designed for carrier-based operations, is equipped with reinforced landing gear, arrester hooks, and a strengthened frame to perform short take-off but arrested recovery (STOBAR) operations – the method used for launching and recovering aircraft from carriers.
Optimized for India’s maritime requirements, these jets are capable of carrying advanced missiles such as the Meteor, Exocet, and Systme de Croisire Autonome Longue Porte (SCALP), enabling versatile combat capabilities.
With its active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and the Spectra electronic warfare suite, the Rafale (M) offers superior target detection, stealth, survivability, and electronic countermeasures. It can reach speeds of up to Mach 1.8, has a combat range exceeding 1,850 kilometres, and features mid-air refuelling capability for extended operational endurance.
In addition to the Rafale (M) acquisition, India also plans to construct three Scorpene-class submarines under Project-75, in collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and France’s Naval Group.
These submarines will bolster India’s underwater combat strength and supplement the Navy’s long-term procurement plans, further enhancing the country’s defence capabilities.
