Will India and France Finalize the Rafale Fighter Jets Deal Tomorrow?
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Synopsis
The upcoming deal between India and France for 26 Rafale fighter jets is set to enhance the Indian Navy's capabilities significantly. With a projected cost of Rs 63,000 crore, this agreement promises advanced training aircraft and logistics support, showcasing the growing defense collaboration between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- India and France to sign a deal for 26 Rafale fighter jets.
- Estimated contract value: Rs 63,000 crore.
- Delivery of jets expected to start in 2028-29.
- Comprehensive support package included in the deal.
- Rafale jets to operate from INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.
New Delhi, April 27 (NationPress) India and France are set to finalize the agreement for 26 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Navy on Monday, as confirmed by the Ministry of Defence.
An official source revealed that the estimated value of the contract is approximately Rs 63,000 crore, significantly boosting the combat capabilities of the Indian Navy.
Out of the 26 Rafale jets, 22 will be single-seater models, while four twin-seater training variants will also be included.
Initially, the French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu was scheduled to visit India on Sunday to formalize the deal; however, his visit was cancelled for personal reasons. He will still engage in discussions with his Indian counterpart Rajnath Singh via video conference.
The defence official mentioned that 'Government-to-business' agreements between India and France will be signed concurrently on Monday.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and the French Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou, will also attend the signing ceremony in New Delhi.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the procurement of the 26 Rafale-M fighter jets from France for the Navy.
“Once the Rafale deal is formalized, deliveries of the Rafale-M jets to the Indian Navy are anticipated to commence in 2028-29, with all aircraft expected to be delivered by 2031-32,” the official stated.
These advanced fighter jets will be deployed from Indian aircraft carriers, including INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant.
The deal will also encompass a comprehensive package for fleet maintenance, logistics support, personnel training, and domestic component manufacturing under offset obligations.
The Indian Air Force already operates a fleet of Rafale aircraft.
Additionally, the Navy successfully conducted an anti-ship missile firing drill on Sunday.
Following the Pahalgam incident, the Navy executed a missile test – a medium-range surface-to-air missile – from its indigenously developed guided missile destroyer, INS Surat, in the Arabian Sea.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the strategic importance of the Rafale deal for India's defense landscape. This agreement not only enhances military capabilities but also strengthens Indo-French relations, paving the way for future collaborations. The government's focus on indigenous manufacturing and logistics support underlines a commitment to national security, aligning well with India's defense modernization efforts.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Rafale fighter jets deal?
The estimated cost of the deal is around Rs 63,000 crore.
How many Rafale fighter jets will be delivered?
A total of 26 Rafale fighter jets will be delivered, including 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater variants.
When will the delivery of the Rafale jets begin?
The delivery of the Rafale-M fighter jets to the Indian Navy is expected to start in 2028-29.
Will the deal include training and support?
Yes, the deal will encompass a comprehensive package for fleet maintenance, logistics support, and personnel training.
What aircraft carriers will operate the Rafale jets?
The Rafale jets will be operated from the Indian aircraft carriers INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant.
