After a long wait, the Indian Navy is all set to get single-seater, twin-seater variants of Rafale Marine jets. These jets will replace MiG-29K and will enhance air power on the navy’s indigenous carriers. The Indian Air Force is already operating these fighters and are based out of two bases in northern India.
On Wednesday (April 9, 2025) the Cabinet Committee on Security, led by PM Narendra Modi, approved the Rs 63,000 cr deal. The deal for 26 Rafale fighter jets expected to be signed later this month with France is government -to- government, according to sources.
The French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu is set to travel to India later this month and the inter-governmental will be expected to be signed then. The deliveries of these jets are expected to be made over five years from the signing of the contract.
The first batch will be delivered by late 2029 by French manufacturer Dassault Aviation to the Indian Navy and the total fleet will be inducted by 2031.
About the deal
According to sources, the Indian Navy is expected to get 22 single-seater fighters and the balance four are twin seater variants. The expected deal will also include navy personnel training, comprehensive package for fleet maintenance, logistical support, and indigenous components which will be under offset obligations.
How will these fighters help the Navy?
These jets once deployed onboard the indigenous aircraft carriers – INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant will complement the MiG-29K. And will help in keeping a close watch on Chinese activities in the Indian Ocean region.
The marine variant is a carrier-based variant and is known for its operational versatility, weapons systems and most importantly advanced avionics.
About Rafale (M)
These fighters are meant for carrier-based missions. Equipped with arrestor hooks, reinforced landing gear, and airframe to execute Short Take-Off but Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) operations.
STOBAR: this is a technique which is used on aircraft carriers to launch and recover aircraft.
IAF & Navy
As reported previously the navy variant will also help in enhancing the IAF’s capabilities. These include the upgradation of the `buddy-buddy’s aerial refuelling system.
Team BharatShakti
