India has finalized a monumental deal worth Rs 63,000 crore on Monday, April 28, to purchase 26 Rafale M fighter jets (marine variants) from France, marking a significant government-to-government agreement.
The contract covers 22 single-seat jets and four twin-seat trainers, with deliveries slated to be completed by 2031. The agreement also includes fleet maintenance, logistical support, personnel training, and, in alignment with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, the local production of components under offset obligations.
The Rafale M is recognized as one of the most advanced naval fighter jets globally. Currently, only the French Navy operates this aircraft.
The jets are equipped with reinforced landing gear from Safran Group, renowned for their durability on carrier-compatible aircraft. Other features include folding wings and a reinforced undercarriage, enabling the jets to endure the harsh conditions of deck landings and tailhook operations.
These advanced fighter jets will be deployed on India’s aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, enhancing the Navy’s maritime capabilities and strengthening its ability to counter threats in the Indian Ocean.
