India approves Rs 63,000 crore deal to buy 26 Rafale marine jets from France
These jets - 22 single-seater and four twin-seater variants - will be used on board Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya
India is all set to purchase 26 Rafale M fighter jets from France for the Indian navy, said news reports quoting defence sources.
This government-to-government deal, valued at Rs 63,000 crore, will significantly enhance the country’s naval capabilities.
The Rafale Marine, a carrier-based version of the combat-proven Rafale fighter, is famous for its state-of-the-art avionics, weapons systems, and operational versatility.
First major upgrade
Touted to be the first major fighter jet upgrade for the country's naval forces, the Indian Navy's new Rafales will complement the existing fleet of MiG-29Ks. The Air Force already operates 36 Rafale jets out of two bases in northern India.
The deal will also involve a comprehensive package for fleet maintenance, logistical support, personnel training, and indigenous manufacturing components under offset obligations. It includes training for Navy personnel as well.
The jets, which are the marine variants, are expected to be delivered in four to five years after the papers are signed, sources said.
These jets - 22 single-seater and four twin-seater variants - will be used on board Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. India is keen to enhance maritime strike capabilities, given the need to keep a watch on Chinese activities in the Indian Ocean region.
The deal is most likely to be signed during French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s visit to India later this month.