India-France Sign ₹63,000 Crore Deal for 26 Rafale Marine Jets
India and France have signed a ₹63,000 crore deal for 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, enhancing India's naval capabilities
The agreement was finalized in Delhi, with Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral K. Swaminathan representing India
The Rafale Marine jets will operate from India's indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, bolstering maritime security
The deal includes 22 single-seat and 4 twin-seat Rafale-M jets, along with weapons, simulators, crew training, and five-year performance-based logistics support
Deliveries are expected to commence by the end of 2029 and complete by 2031, enhancing India's naval fleet over time
Deliveries are expected to commence by the end of 2029 and complete by 2031, enhancing India's naval fleet over time
The agreement includes provisions for the indigenous manufacturing of components, supporting India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative
This deal deepens the strategic defence relationship between India and France, reinforcing bilateral ties
The Rafale-M jets will replace the aging MiG-29K fleet, enhancing operational efficiency and combat readiness
The acquisition aims to bolster India's maritime security, addressing growing concerns in the Indian Ocean region