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In a landmark defense acquisition, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the purchase of 26 Rafale-M fighter aircraft for the Indian Navy.
Following months of high-level deliberations and strategic planning, the ₹63,000 crore government-to-government agreement with France marks a significant step in modernizing India’s naval aviation capabilities.
Specially Designed For Maritime Operations
Under the deal, the Indian Navy will receive 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater Rafale-M jets- variants specially engineered for maritime warfare.
With this deployment, these aircraft, designed to operate from aircraft carriers, will be stationed aboard the Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
The decision is also aimed at countering China’s increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.
Comprehensive Package
Notably, the deal encompasses more than just fighter jets. It includes a complete support ecosystem with weaponry, simulators, spare parts, logistics assistance, and crew training.
All components of the support system will be provided by the French government, ensuring seamless integration into Indian naval operations.
Dassault Aviation will begin delivering the Rafale-M jets to India within 37 to 65 months of the final contract signing.
The Indian Navy expects to receive all 26 aircraft by 2030–31, significantly strengthening the nation’s maritime defense posture for the coming decade.
Though primarily meant for the Navy, the deal also benefits the Indian Air Force.
The new Rafale-M jets will share technological commonality with the 36 Rafales already in service at Ambala and Hasimara airbases.
This compatibility is expected to simplify training, streamline maintenance, and reduce operational costs.
Strengthening Maritime Capabilities
The Rafale-M has proven its mettle while serving aboard France’s aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle.
Its performance in high-pressure sea environments makes it a reliable asset for India’s expanding maritime interests.
The Defense Acquisition Council had previously cleared the deal, and the CCS nod makes the procurement official.
Defense analysts see this as a crucial move to elevate India’s air and naval power.
Strategically speaking, it signals India’s intent to assert itself more confidently in the Indo-Pacific and strengthen its defense partnerships.
More than a routine procurement, the Rafale-M deal is a powerful indicator of India’s rising profile in global defense and maritime strategy.
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