MILAN — India and France have signed a significant agreement for the acquisition of 26 Rafale fighter jets, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Navy. This move marks India as the first international operator of the naval variant of the Rafale, highlighting the strategic relationship between the two nations.
The agreement came about following India’s selection of the Rafale Marine in July 2023, after extensive consultations and evaluations of the aircraft. The new jets will introduce advanced capabilities to the Indian sea service, complementing the 36 Rafale jets currently operational with the Indian Air Force.
Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of the Rafale, expressed that “the Indian Navy will benefit from the experience of the French Navy, which already operates the Rafale Marine.” The company further stated that these aircraft will actively contribute to safeguarding national sovereignty and reinforcing India’s position as a key global player.
Although the governments did not disclose a specific price for the deal, it is estimated to potentially reach €3 billion (approximately $3.4 billion). This estimate is based on previous Rafale transactions that indicate a per-unit cost exceeding €100 million.
Additionally, a statement from the Indian Ministry of Defense noted that the agreement will involve technology transfer for the integration of indigenous weapons onto the Rafale Marine in India. This deal also includes plans for establishing a national production facility for Rafale fuselage, along with maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities for aircraft engines and sensors.
The intention is for the Indian Navy to deploy these new jets on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. Historically, the navy has primarily relied on Russian-made MiG-29K jets, some of which could be replaced by the incoming Rafale aircraft.
Elisabeth Gosselin-Malo serves as a Europe correspondent for Defense News, focusing on military procurement and international security topics, particularly within the aviation sector, and is based in Milan, Italy.
