Rafale jets lined up on the flight deck of French carrier Charles de Gaulle.
| Photo Credit: Dinakar Peri
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) gave final approval to the deal for 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets from France for the Indian Navy worth over $7bn. This includes 22 single seater carrier compliant jets and four twin seater trainers.
The deal, worth over ₹63,000 crore, will be executed under a government-to-government agreement with France, ANI has reported quoting government sources.
It also comprises a comprehensive package for fleet maintenance, logistical support, personnel training, and indigenous manufacturing components under offset obligations.
In July 2023, the defence ministry approved the purchase of 26 Rafale (marine) jets from France, primarily for deployment on board the indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.
In pictures | Might over the sea
The ministry had also cleared procurement of three Scorpene submarines from France. However, the CCS is yet to clear the project.
Under the Indian Navy’s Project 75, six Scorpene submarines have already been constructed in India by the Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) in cooperation with the Naval Group of France.
The procurement of the Rafale (M) jets along with associated ancillary equipment, including weapon systems and spares, would be based on an inter-governmental agreement (IGA).
The Indian Air Force (IAF) already operates 36 Rafale jets at its bases in Ambala and Hashimara. The new Rafale Marine deal will also help enhance the IAF’s capabilities, including upgrading its “buddy-buddy” aerial refuelling system.
(With inputs from ANI, PTI)
Published – April 09, 2025 02:14 pm IST
