India and France have signed a historic defense agreement, under which India will receive 26 Rafale-M fighter jets from France. This deal significantly enhances India's naval capabilities and strengthens its maritime security. The total value of this deal is approximately ₹63,000 crore (approximately $7.6 billion USD).
New Delhi: Following the Pulwama attack, tensions between India and Pakistan have steadily increased, prompting India to bolster its defense capabilities. In this context, a significant defense deal between India and France has been finalized, referred to as the historic Rafale-M deal. Under this agreement, India will procure 26 Rafale-M marine fighter jets, comprising 22 single-seater and 4 two-seater aircraft.
This agreement was signed between the defense ministers of India and France. Media reports suggest this is the largest ever defense procurement deal between India and France, with a total cost of approximately ₹63,000 crore. This move is a crucial step towards India's self-reliance in the defense sector and will further strengthen the Indian armed forces amidst ongoing tensions with Pakistan.
Rafale-M Fighter Jets: A Powerful Addition
The Rafale-M jets will be customized by France to meet the specific requirements of the Indian Navy. These aircraft will be primarily deployed on the INS Vikrant, a key aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy. The aircraft boasts capabilities including anti-ship strikes, nuclear weapon deployment, and a flight endurance of up to 10 hours. It is designed to significantly enhance India's power projection in any conflict scenario.
Other key features of the Rafale-M include superior flight performance and advanced weaponry. The fleet includes a mix of double-seater and 22 single-seater aircraft, proving highly beneficial to the Indian Navy.
Significance of the Deal
This deal further strengthens the robust military and strategic relationship between the two nations. The agreement, signed by the defense ministers of India and France, involves Dassault Aviation, the French defense company, tailoring the aircraft to Indian specifications. This agreement provides the Indian Navy with a state-of-the-art fighter aircraft capable of successfully executing any military mission in maritime environments.
Delivery Timeline
According to the deal, the delivery of Rafale-M aircraft is expected to commence in 2028-29, with all aircraft anticipated to be delivered to India by 2031-32. This delivery will be a significant boost to the Indian Navy, augmenting its military strength and enhancing maritime security.
Rafale vs. Rafale-M
India and France previously concluded a deal for 36 Rafale jets in 2016, valued at ₹58,000 crore (approximately $7 billion USD). Deliveries were completed by 2022, and these aircraft are currently deployed at the Ambala and Hashimara airbases of the Indian Air Force.
However, the Rafale-M aircraft are significantly more advanced and powerful than the standard Rafale jets, specifically designed for naval operations.
