India inks Rs 63,000 crore deal with France for 26 advanced Rafale-M fighter jets

NEW DELHI: India has signed a Rs 63,000 crore deal with France for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets. The deal includes the purchase of 22 single-seater jets and four twin-seater jets. The delivery is expected to be completed by 2031. The agreement also covers maintenance, logistical support and training. The contract has been signed under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The Rafale-M jets are being procured to replace the ageing MiG-29s.

The Rafale-M is considered one of the most advanced naval fighter aircraft in the world. Currently, it is only operated by the French Navy. It features Safran Group’s landing gears, known for being among the best suited for carrier-based aircraft. The Rafale-M also comes equipped with foldable wings, a reinforced undercarriage to handle harsh conditions, deck landing capabilities, and tailhooks. The new jets will be deployed on INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. It is assessed that this will enhance India's naval strength and help counter threats in the Indian Ocean.

The Navy Chief, Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, had stated last December that the Navy is testing new strategies and is fully prepared to face threats from any neighbouring country.

At present, India has 36 Rafale jets in its possession. The new Rafale jets will also help improve the 'buddy-buddy' aerial refuelling system, where one jet equipped with a refuelling pod can serve as a flying fuel tank for another, allowing jets to stay airborne longer. Additionally, the indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will soon be inducted into the Navy.