Cabinet Approves ₹63,000 Crore Purchase of 26 Rafale Jets from France for Indian Navy
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Synopsis
The Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has authorized a ₹63,000 crore agreement to procure 26 Rafale fighter jets from France for the Indian Navy, enhancing India's defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key Takeaways
- Cabinet approves ₹63,000 crore Rafale deal.
- 26 jets include 22 single-seaters and 4 twin-seaters.
- Procurement supports India's maritime defense against China.
- Delivery expected between 37 to 65 months.
- Logistics support for existing IAF Rafale jets included.
New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) The Cabinet Committee on Security, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹63,000 crore deal between governments to acquire 26 Rafale fighter jets from France for the Indian Navy, as confirmed by senior officials.
This procurement encompasses 22 single-seat jets and four twin-seat variants, specially tailored for the maritime needs of the Indian Navy amidst China's growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.
The acquisition of the Rafale jets will include weapons, simulators, parts, essential ancillary equipment, crew training, and logistical support from the French government.
The delivery of the 26 Rafale-M jets, produced by Dassault Aviation, is anticipated within 37 to 65 months following the finalization of the contract in the upcoming weeks. All aircraft deliveries are expected to be completed by 2030-31, according to a senior official.
This agreement will also provide logistics support and spare parts for the 36 Rafale fighter jets that were previously inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2016 under an earlier ₹59,000 crore contract with France. These Rafale jets constitute two squadrons within the IAF.
The initial Rafale squadron is stationed at Ambala Air Force Station, while the second is located at Hasimara Air Force Station in West Bengal, near the China border. The deployment of Rafale squadrons aims to strengthen India's air capabilities in the eastern sector against China and on the western front against Pakistan.
The French maritime fighter is a robust aircraft designed to endure the challenging conditions involved in aircraft carrier operations within a highly corrosive environment. It is currently in service with the French Navy’s aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.
The naval variant Rafale-M will ensure compatibility with the IAF's fighters, providing benefits in training, maintenance, and logistics support, according to the official.
India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, previously endorsed the Navy’s proposal for the acquisition of the 26 Rafale M fighters in line with the official protocol.
