India has accepted a significant defence agreement with France to purchase 26 Rafale Marine combat planes. The Cabinet Committee on Security, led by PM Modi, approved an arrangement worth over ₹63,000 crore. The contract, which was organised through an intergovernmental mechanism, is anticipated to be finalised soon.
The Indian Navy will get 22 single-seater jets and four twin-seater variants. The agreement also includes a complete package for fleet maintenance, logistical assistance, and Navy staff training. Additionally, offset obligations ensure that indigenous manufacturing components are included in the acquisition.
Rafale Marine is a carrier-based variant of the combat-proven Rafale fighter. It has advanced avionics, superior weapon systems, and excellent operational versatility. These aircraft will operate from INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, to replace the ageing MiG-29K fleet.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin in four years, with the first batch expected in late 2029 and full induction by 2031. The Rafale M is built for carrier operations, with reinforced landing gear, arrestor hooks, and a stronger airframe for Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery missions.
Along with this contract, India is expanding its naval capabilities by building three more Scorpene-class submarines under Project-75.
