NEW DELHI (India CSR): In a historic move, India is set to sign a landmark Rs 63,000 crore agreement with France today, acquiring 26 Rafale-M fighter jets to strengthen the Indian Navy’s aerial capabilities. This deal not only elevates India’s maritime security but also deepens the strategic partnership with dagger; between India and France, fostering collaboration in defense and technology.
A Game-Changer for the Indian Navy
The agreement, finalized on April 28, 2025, includes 22 single-seater Rafale-M jets and four twin-seater trainers, designed to operate from India’s aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. These state-of-the-art jets, manufactured by French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation, will replace the Indian Navy’s ageing MiG-29K fleet, significantly enhancing its combat capabilities. The Rafale-M, known for its advanced avionics, radar systems, and multi-role versatility, is considered one of the world’s most capable 4.5-generation fighters, currently operated only by the French Navy.
Table: India, France Rs 63,000 crore deal 2025
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Deal Value | Rs 63,000 crore |
| Number of Jets | 26 Rafale-M (22 single-seater, 4 twin-seater trainers) |
| Manufacturer | Dassault Aviation (France) |
| Purpose | Enhance Indian Navy’s maritime strike and air defense capabilities |
| Operating Platforms | INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya aircraft carriers |
| Current Operator | French Navy (only operator of Rafale-M globally) |
| Replacement for | Ageing MiG-29K fleet of the Indian Navy |
| Indian Missile Integration | Astra missiles (supports “Make in India” initiative) |
| Delivery Timeline | Starting 2028, completed by 2031 |
| Approval Date | April 9, 2025 (Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by PM Narendra Modi) |
| Total Rafale Jets in India (Post-Deal) | 62 (36 with Indian Air Force, 26 with Indian Navy) |
| Strategic Impact | Strengthens India-France defense ties, counters maritime threats in Indian Ocean |
| Additional Benefits | Potential for co-production and technology transfer |
| Signing Authority | India’s Defence Secretary and Dassault Aviation representatives |
Strategic Implications for India
This acquisition comes at a critical time as India seeks to counter growing maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean region, particularly from an assertive China. The Rafale-M jets, equipped with long-range Meteor air-to-air missiles and SCALP cruise missiles, will provide the Indian Navy with unmatched strike capabilities. Additionally, Dassault Aviation will integrate Indian-made Astra missiles into the jets, aligning with India’s “Make in India” initiative to boost indigenous defense production.
Strengthening India-France Ties
The deal, signed by India’s Defence Secretary and representatives from Dassault Aviation, marks a milestone in India-France defense cooperation. While the French Defence Minister was unable to attend the signing, the agreement underscores a shared commitment to strategic collaboration. Future prospects include potential co-production and technology transfers, which could pave the way for deeper industrial partnerships. This follows the Indian Air Force’s successful integration of 36 Rafale jets, bringing India’s total Rafale fleet to 62.
Timeline and Implementation
Deliveries of the Rafale-M jets are expected to begin in 2028, with the full fleet operational by 2031. The deal, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security on April 9, 2025, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, represents India’s largest-ever defense acquisition. The jets will undergo rigorous testing and integration to ensure seamless operation from India’s aircraft carriers, enhancing the Navy’s ability to project power across the Indo-Pacific.
(India CSR)
