India Inks ₹63,000 Crore Deal with France for 26 Rafale Marine Fighter Jets for INS Vikrant
In a major step to strengthen naval aviation, India and France on Monday signed a government-to-government deal worth approximately ₹63,000 crore for the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets. The jets, designed for aircraft carrier operations, will be deployed on India’s first indigenous carrier, INS Vikrant.
The agreement, finalised with French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation, includes 22 single-seat Rafale M fighters and four twin-seat trainer aircraft. This acquisition aims to meet the Indian Navy’s immediate requirements while the country works on developing its twin-engine deck-based fighter.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the deal earlier this month. In addition to the aircraft, the comprehensive package includes advanced weaponry, simulators, spare parts, crew training, logistics support, and other ancillary equipment.
Originally cleared in July 2023 by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) under Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the procurement is considered a strategic interim solution. The Rafale M is specifically engineered for carrier-based operations, with features that ensure survivability in the harsh maritime environment. It is currently in service aboard France’s aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle.
The decision marks a significant boost to India’s naval capabilities, enabling INS Vikrant to operate a proven, reliable, and combat-tested fighter jet while enhancing India’s maritime strength in the Indo-Pacific region.