SOURCE: AFI
In a significant boost to India’s naval aviation capabilities, India and France have concluded negotiations for the purchase of 26 Rafale M fighter aircraft in a deal valued at USD 7.6 billion. The formal agreement is slated to be signed in April 2025 during a visit by the French Defence Minister to India, marking another milestone in the deepening defense ties between the two nations.
The Rafale M jets will Supplement the Indian Navy’s aging fleet of MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB aircraft, enhancing the operational readiness of its aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, and reinforcing India’s maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region.
While the exact breakdown of the order has not been officially confirmed by either India or France, defense sources suggest that the deal includes 22 Rafale M single-seat carrier-based fighters and four Rafale B dual-seat trainers. The Rafale M will form the backbone of the Indian Navy’s carrier air wings, providing a significant leap in capability over the MiG-29K. The Rafale B trainers, which are not designed for carrier operations, will likely be stationed at shore-based facilities for pilot training and operational conversion, ensuring that naval aviators are well-prepared to handle the complexities of the Rafale platform.
The $7.6 billion price tag reflects not only the cost of the aircraft but also a comprehensive package that includes training, spares, maintenance support, and infrastructure upgrades to support operations from INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. Additionally, India has reportedly negotiated for the integration of indigenous systems, such as the Uttam AESA radar and Astra missile, into the Rafale M in the future, aligning with the country’s push for self-reliance in defense technology.
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