India Approves ₹63,000 Crore Deal for 26 Rafale Marine Jets from France

The Indian government has officially cleared a high-value defense agreement with France, approving the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets in a government-to-government deal estimated at ₹63,000 crore. This marks a significant enhancement in India’s naval aviation capabilities and its strategic defense ties with France.

Navy to get 26 Rafale jets — 22 single-seat, 4 twin-seat.

 Key Highlights of the Deal

Under the agreement, the Indian Navy will acquire:

• 22 single-seat Rafale M fighter aircraft

• 4 twin-seat trainer variants

These jets are specially designed for aircraft carrier operations and will significantly upgrade the Navy’s maritime strike capabilities.

Deployment and Induction Timeline

The Rafale Marine jets are expected to be deployed on India’s two key aircraft carriers:

• INS Vikramaditya

• INS Vikrant (India’s indigenous aircraft carrier)

Deliveries are projected to begin around the end of 2029, with full induction expected by 2031. These new jets will gradually replace the aging MiG-29K fleet currently in use.

Strategic Impact on the Air Force

Although intended for naval use, the Rafale Marine jets will also contribute to enhancing the Indian Air Force’s aerial operations. They are expected to support mid-air refueling through the "buddy-buddy" system, extending the operational range of the Rafale fleet and increasing mission flexibility.

Air Force Chief Raises Concerns

Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh has consistently highlighted the urgent need to modernize the Indian Air Force’s aging fleet. At a recent defense conclave, he stressed that the IAF requires the induction of 35 to 40 fighter jets annually to maintain operational effectiveness and replace retiring aircraft over the next decade.

Currently operating with only 31 squadrons—well below the sanctioned strength of 42—the Air Force faces challenges in sustaining its combat readiness. The Air Chief has also criticized delays in the domestic production of Tejas Mk1A jets and called for increased involvement of private industry in defense manufacturing.

Rafale's Role in India’s Defense Modernization

India’s acquisition of Rafale jets began with the 2016 agreement for 36 fighters, which significantly enhanced the IAF’s strike power. The induction of Rafale Marine jets marks the next phase of modernization, extending these capabilities to the Navy and reinforcing India’s strategic preparedness in a complex regional security environment.