The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the purchase of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets from France for the Indian Navy.
Rafale Deal: India's maritime security is about to receive a significant boost. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently approved the procurement of 26 state-of-the-art Rafale-M fighter jets from France for the Indian Navy.
The official signing of this crucial defense deal between India and France will take place today. This historic agreement will dramatically enhance both the offensive and defensive capabilities of the Indian Navy.
Deal Signing via Video Conference
While the French Defence Minister's visit to India has been cancelled due to personal reasons, it has not affected the Rafale deal. As scheduled, representatives from France and India will sign the agreement via video conference. Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and the French Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou, will witness this historic moment.
Why are Rafale-Ms Special for the Navy?
The Rafale-M is specifically designed for naval operations. These fighter jets will be capable of taking off from and operating from the Indian Navy's aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant. Their biggest strength lies in their multi-role capabilities; they are adept at air strikes, maritime targeting, and electronic warfare.
Another key feature of the Rafale-M is its ability to maintain superior performance even in challenging maritime conditions, crucial for the Indian Navy. Deployment of these jets will significantly strengthen India's strategic advantage in the Indian Ocean region.
Deal Scope and Cost
The total cost of the deal is estimated to be approximately ₹63,000 crore. Under this agreement, India will receive 22 single-seater Rafale-Ms and 4 twin-seater trainer variants. This also includes provisions for maintenance, spare parts supply, logistical support, crew training, and the local manufacturing of some components under the "Make in India" initiative.
The delivery of Rafale-M aircraft will commence from 2028-29, with all 26 aircraft joining the Indian Navy's fleet by 2031-32. During this period, Indian Navy pilots and technical personnel will receive specialized training to maximize the utilization of these high-end fighter jets.
Recent Tests Showcase Preparedness
Just before the Rafale deal, the Indian Navy successfully test-fired a medium-range surface-to-air missile from its destroyer INS Surat in the Arabian Sea, demonstrating its combat readiness. Additionally, the Navy successfully conducted anti-ship firing exercises. These actions indicate the Indian Navy's complete preparedness to handle any contingency.
Following the recent terrorist attack in the Pahalgam area of Jammu and Kashmir, Indian security forces have further heightened their vigilance and offensive posture. The Navy's missile test and now the acquisition of the Rafale-M send a clear message to India's adversaries that no effort will be spared in defending the nation.
Synergy with Indian Air Force's Rafale Fleet
It is noteworthy that the Indian Air Force already possesses a fleet of 36 French-made Rafale fighter jets, which became fully operational in 2020. The Air Force's experience will significantly assist the Navy in the operation and maintenance of these aircraft, enhancing both coordination and efficiency. Experts believe that the purchase of Rafale-M is not only a technological upgrade but also reflects India's growing global influence and strategic importance. This will help the Indian Navy effectively counter emerging challenges in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean region.
