India signs deal with France of 26 Rafale marine jets for ₹63,000 crore amid cross-border tensions with Pakistan

India is set to sign a ₹63,000-crore government-to-government deal with France today for the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, a major step to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy. These aircraft will be deployed aboard INS Vikrant, India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, as part of efforts to strengthen maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the acquisition earlier this month, clearing the way for 22 single-seat Rafale M fighters and four twin-seat trainer aircraft. This deal is seen as an interim solution while India continues to develop its own twin-engine deck-based fighter for future needs.

Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale M is a combat-proven aircraft that has been specifically designed to handle the demanding conditions of aircraft carrier operations. It offers several enhancements such as corrosion-resistant features critical for deployment at sea, and its integration will significantly boost the Indian Navy’s strike capabilities.

The contract also covers a comprehensive package, including advanced weapon systems, flight simulators, spare parts, logistics support, and crew training modules. This full-spectrum support is expected to ensure the long-term operational readiness of the Rafale fleet on INS Vikrant.

India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, had given its initial approval for the procurement in July 2023. The formal signing of the agreement now marks a critical milestone in India's push for stronger naval aviation forces amid rising strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

The Rafale M jets are currently deployed aboard France’s flagship carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, and have proven their reliability in combat missions and carrier-based operations worldwide. Their induction into the Indian Navy is being hailed as a strategic leap forward in securing India's maritime interests.