Amid Pakistan tensions, India, France sign Rs 63,000-crore Rafale-M jets deal for Indian Navy

Rafale

Amid tension with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attacks, India inked the critical Rs 63,000 crore defence pact with France to acquire 26 Rafale M combat jets on Monday. These are the naval variant of the aircraft. This deal between India and France is one of the largest government-to-government defence deals on record in the world.

As per the agreement details, the contract covers the purchase of 22 single-seat fighters and four twin-seat trainer aircraft. The deliveries of these jets is likely to be completed by 2031. Apart from the aircraft, the comprehensive deal includes fleet maintenance, logistics support, and training for personnel. Notably, the deal also emphasises the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision by incorporating indigenous manufacturing of components through offset commitments.

The Rafale M is regarded as one of the most advanced naval fighters currently in service, with the French Navy being its only current operator.

Designed for carrier operations, the Rafale M features Safran Group’s reinforced landing gear, acclaimed for its performance on aircraft carriers. The jet is also equipped with folding wings and a strengthened undercarriage to endure the demanding conditions of deck landings and carrier-based operations, including the use of tailhooks. The Indian Navy will be deploying the fighters on aircraft carriers INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. This will bolster New Delhi's maritime power in strategically important Indian Ocean.