India Secures 26 Rafale Marine Jets for Indigenous Carrier INS Vikrant in ₹63,000-Crore Pact

In a significant move to strengthen maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, India is set to sign a ₹63,000-crore agreement with France on Monday to purchase 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets. These aircraft will be deployed on the country’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities and strategic reach.

Earlier this month, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the government-to-government agreement for the acquisition of 22 single-seat Rafale Marine fighter jets and four twin-seat trainer aircraft. The government-to-government deal for 22 single-seat Rafale M fighter jets and four twin-seat trainers was approved earlier this month by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Rafale M jets, produced by French aerospace firm Dassault Aviation, are being imported as a temporary solution to address the Indian Navy's immediate needs until an indigenous twin-engine deck-based fighter is developed. The procurement package from the French government will also cover weapons, simulators, spare parts, related support equipment, crew training, and logistics assistance for the Indian Navy.

In July 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, gave the green light to the Indian Navy’s proposal to procure 26 Rafale M fighter jets to enhance its combat readiness and operational strength.

Renowned for its robust build, the fighter jet incorporates several design elements that improve its durability and performance during challenging aircraft carrier operations, where deck-based systems face intense wear and corrosive conditions. It is specifically engineered to function from 40,000-tonne class aircraft carriers and is currently in service aboard the French Navy’s flagship, the Charles de Gaulle.