(Image source from: Businesstoday.in)
India is set to procure 26 Rafale M fighter jets, specifically the naval versions, for its Navy in a landmark government-to-government arrangement valued at over Rs 63,000 crore, according to sources reported on Tuesday. This acquisition will mark the first significant enhancement of the country's maritime air capabilities. The initiative was initially contemplated in July 2023 when the Defence Ministry reached out to its French counterpart. This agreement will also encompass an extensive support package that includes fleet maintenance, logistical assistance, training for personnel, and the local manufacturing of parts as part of offset agreements. The formal signing of the contracts is anticipated later this month during the visit of French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu to India. Sources indicated that the delivery of these jets is expected five years following the agreement's finalization, suggesting a complete induction is unlikely before 2031.
The Rafale M is recognized globally as one of the most sophisticated naval fighter jets available. It is fitted with reinforced landing gear from Safran Group, known to be one of the finest for aircraft that operate from carriers. Additional features include retractable wings and a strengthened undercarriage designed to endure difficult conditions, deck landings, and tailhook operations. The order consists of 22 single-seat jets and four twin-seat variants, which will primarily be stationed aboard the domestically produced aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, as India seeks to enhance its maritime strike capabilities and monitor Chinese activities within the Indian Ocean region.
"We are adjusting our strategy to counteract any encroachments within our operational area and are fully prepared to address threats from all neighboring states," stated Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi in December. The new Rafales for the Navy are also expected to boost the Air Force's operational capabilities, particularly by advancing the 'buddy-buddy' aerial refueling system, allowing one aircraft, fitted with a refueling pod, to serve as a tanker for another jet, thereby extending their time in the air. These new Rafales will supplement the current fleet of MiG-29Ks, which are expected to remain operational from INS Vikramaditya, India's second and older aircraft carrier.
Additionally, the Navy is looking to introduce domestically developed fifth-generation fighter jets, which are being created by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These aircraft, designed as twin-engine, deck-based fighters, will serve as the naval equivalent of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is under development for the Air Force. The Air Force currently utilizes 36 Rafale jets of the 'C' variant across two bases located in the northern region.
