SOURCE: AFI
In a bold move underscoring its commitment to strengthening India’s defense capabilities, the Modi government has secured Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) clearance for the acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine (M) fighter jets from France’s Dassault Aviation, a deal valued at over ?63,000 crore. Announced on April 9, 2025, this government-to-government (G2G) agreement for the Indian Navy’s carrier-borne fighter requirement demonstrates the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led administration’s resilience in the face of past political controversies.
In 2019, the Congress Party had accused the Modi government of corruption in the IAF’s purchase of 36 Rafale jets, allegations that failed to gain traction in the Supreme Court of India. Far from being deterred, the government’s latest decision not only bolsters naval aviation but also lays the groundwork for a potential acquisition of 110 additional Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF) in the near future.
The 2016 Rafale deal for 36 IAF jets, worth €7.87 billion (approximately ?59,000 crore), became a flashpoint during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, with the Congress Party alleging massive corruption, favoritism toward Reliance Defence, and inflated pricing. Led by Rahul Gandhi, the opposition claimed the Modi government bypassed standard procedures, waived anti-corruption clauses, and caused a loss of ?21,075 crore to the exchequer. These accusations, amplified by media reports citing French investigations, aimed to tarnish the BJP’s image, with slogans like “Chowkidar Chor Hai” targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly.
However, the Supreme Court delivered a decisive blow to the Congress narrative. On December 14, 2018, and again on November 14, 2019, the apex court dismissed petitions seeking a probe, finding no evidence of irregularities in the decision-making process, pricing, or selection of offset partners. The court emphasized that judicial review could not override defense procurement decisions critical to national security, noting the IAF’s urgent need for advanced fighters. The Modi government emerged vindicated, though critics argued the controversy had placed it on the defensive.
The CCS clearance for 26 Rafale M jets signals a government unbowed by past accusations. By opting for another G2G deal with France, the BJP is doubling down on a transparent procurement model that minimizes intermediaries and leverages diplomatic trust. The decision reflects confidence that the Rafale platform, proven in IAF operations since 2020, is worth the investment, regardless of political noise.
The Rafale M deal addresses a critical gap in the Indian Navy’s capabilities. Intended for the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and the INS Vikramaditya, the 26 jets—22 single-seater and four twin-seater variants—will replace the aging MiG-29K fleet, which has faced maintenance challenges and operational constraints. Selected over Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet after rigorous trials in Goa, the Rafale M offers superior maneuverability, advanced sensors, and compatibility with Indian weapons like the BrahMos-NG and Naval Anti-Ship Missiles (NASMs). France’s commitment to integrate these systems enhances the deal’s value, ensuring the Navy can project power effectively in the Indo-Pacific.
The agreement includes maintenance facilities, training, and simulators, leveraging infrastructure already established for the IAF’s Rafale fleet at Ambala and Hasimara. This commonality reduces lifecycle costs and accelerates induction, with deliveries expected within 37-65 months from contract signing. The deal also aligns with India’s broader naval expansion, including plans for a third carrier, reinforcing its role as a counterweight to China’s growing maritime presence.
The Rafale M deal could serve as a precursor to a larger acquisition for the IAF, which faces a critical shortage of fighter squadrons. Currently operating 31 squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42, the IAF requires modern multirole jets to replace retiring MiG-21s, MiG-27s, and Jaguars. The Modi government’s experience with the Rafale platform—now battle-tested in high-altitude operations along the LAC—makes it a strong contender for the IAF’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender, which seeks 114 jets (effectively 110 after accounting for initial flyaway units).
Sources indicate that the success of the Rafale M negotiations could streamline a follow-on order for the IAF, potentially bypassing a lengthy tender process. The IAF’s familiarity with the Rafale’s Meteor missile, SCALP cruise missile, and AESA radar, combined with existing logistics at Ambala, makes scaling up to 110 additional jets logistically feasible. Such a move would standardize training and maintenance, while France’s willingness to deepen industrial ties—through offset obligations and possible co-production—could sweeten the deal.
The CCS clearance sends a clear message: the Modi government prioritizes national security over political optics. By moving forward with the Rafale M, it dismisses the Congress Party’s 2019 campaign as a failed attempt to politicize defense procurement. The Supreme Court’s rulings have bolstered this stance, affirming that allegations of corruption lacked substance. The government’s transparency in detailing the Navy deal’s scope—publicly announcing the number of jets, cost, and timeline—further undermines opposition critiques.
Strategically, the Rafale acquisitions align with India’s need to counter regional threats. China’s J-20 stealth fighters and Pakistan’s potential upgrades to its air force demand a robust IAF and Navy capable of deterrence and precision strikes. The Rafale’s proven performance, including its role in Ladakh during the 2020 standoff, gives India confidence in its ability to dominate contested airspace.
The Rafale M deal is not without hurdles. At ?63,000 crore for 26 jets, the cost per unit—roughly ?2,423 crore—has drawn scrutiny, though it includes weapons, spares, and infrastructure, unlike the IAF’s 2016 deal. Critics may revive pricing debates, especially as the Congress Party seeks to regain political ground ahead of future elections. Ensuring timely deliveries and integration of Indian missiles will also test the Modi government’s project management.
Yet, the opportunities are immense. A follow-on order for 110 IAF jets could create economies of scale, reducing per-unit costs and boosting India’s aerospace industry through offsets. The Vadodara C-295 facility, set to become an MRO hub, offers a model for Rafale-related manufacturing, potentially attracting French investment. Exports to countries like Indonesia or Vietnam, which admire the Rafale’s capabilities, could further enhance India’s global standing.
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