GUWAHATI: The central government on Wednesday, April 9, approved a government-to-government deal with France for the acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine fighter aircraft for the Indian Navy. The deal, valued at over ₹63,000 crore (approximately $7 billion), includes 22 single-seater carrier-capable jets and four twin-seater trainers.
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The approval marked the final step before the formal contract signing, which is expected during the visit of the French defence minister to India later this month. The deal has been considered as part of broader strategic defence cooperation between the two countries, with another proposal for three Scorpene-class submarines still awaiting the Cabinet Committee on Security’s (CCS) clearance.
The Rafale Marine jets are to be deployed on India’s two aircraft carriers—INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. Deliveries are expected to commence by late 2029, with the entire fleet likely to be inducted by 2031. The new jets are set to replace the ageing MiG-29K fleet, which currently forms the backbone of naval aviation.
The package also includes fleet maintenance, logistical support, training for naval personnel, and offset obligations that will contribute to indigenous manufacturing. The deal is undergoing deliberations under an inter-governmental agreement, ensuring assured delivery timelines and maintenance support from Dassault Aviation.
Notably, the Indian Air Force already operates 36 Rafale jets, acquired in a ₹60,000 crore deal signed in 2016.
