India to sign largest-ever Rafale-Marine fighter jet deal with France on April 28

India and France are set to sign their largest-ever defence deal for the procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy on April 28. Senior officials from both countries will be present at the signing ceremony, which is expected to take place outside the Defence Ministry headquarters in South Block, New Delhi.

The agreement, finalised under a government-to-government framework, will see the acquisition of 22 single-seater and four twin-seater Rafale-Marine jets. Along with the aircraft, the deal includes a full support package covering fleet maintenance, logistical backing, personnel training, and indigenous manufacturing of select components.

Sources confirmed that the French Defence Minister will arrive in India ahead of the signing event, marking a significant milestone in bilateral defence cooperation. This new contract comes just weeks after the Cabinet Committee on Security, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared the purchase on April 9.

The Rafale-Marine jets are set to operate from India’s indigenously built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, and will complement the Navy’s current Mig-29K fighter fleet. With the induction of these advanced jets, the Navy’s combat strength will receive a substantial boost, especially in maritime strike capabilities.

The Indian Air Force already operates 36 Rafale jets bought under an earlier agreement signed in 2016. Those aircraft are based at Ambala and Hashimara airbases. With the addition of these new Rafale-Marine fighters, India’s total Rafale fleet will rise to 62, significantly enhancing the country's 4.5-plus-generation combat aircraft inventory.

The deal also emphasizes India’s push for greater self-reliance in defence, as it includes provisions for local manufacturing and supply chain strengthening, furthering the 'Make in India' initiative.