SOURCE: AFI
Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi has confirmed that the long-awaited deal for 26 Rafale M fighter jets is nearing completion and could be finalized within the next two months. This acquisition marks a significant step forward for enhancing the Navy’s air combat capabilities, particularly for its aircraft carrier operations.
The deal is set to include 22 single-seater Rafale M F4 variants specifically tailored for carrier-based operations and four twin-seater Rafale B F4 variants for training purposes. While the Rafale M variants will operate from the Navy’s aircraft carriers, the Rafale B units will be limited to shore-based training missions at the Indian Naval Air Station INS Hansa in Goa, as they are not designed for carrier operations.
The single-seater Rafale M variants are designed for naval aviation, featuring Reinforced landing gear for arrested landings on carriers, Folding wings for optimized storage and Advanced radar and electronic warfare systems.
The Rafale M was selected after rigorous trials, where it outperformed its competitor, the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, in meeting the Indian Navy’s operational requirements. The induction of Rafale M jets is expected to commence soon after the deal’s finalization, with deliveries likely mid of 2028. The advanced capabilities of these aircraft will not only elevate the Indian Navy’s maritime superiority but also enhance joint operational capabilities with the Indian Air Force, which already operates Rafale jets.