India, France Sign Rs 63,000-Crore Rafale-M Jets Deal Amid Tensions with Pakistan

Overview of the India-France Rafale-M Deal

In a significant move to strengthen India’s maritime capabilities, India has signed a Rs 63,000 crore defense deal with France for the purchase of 26 Rafale M combat jets. The deal, finalized amid heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, is one of the largest government-to-government defense agreements in the world. These jets, specifically the naval variant of the Rafale, will bolster the Indian Navy’s operational readiness and provide a significant strategic advantage.

Highlights:

• India signs Rs 63,000 crore deal with France for 26 Rafale M combat jets.

• Deal one of the largest defense agreements in the world.

• Strengthening of India’s maritime capabilities amid rising tensions with Pakistan.

Details of the Deal

The agreement encompasses the procurement of 22 single-seat fighters and four twin-seat trainer aircraft. These jets are set to be delivered by 2031, and the deal includes comprehensive support for fleet maintenance, logistics, and training for Indian Navy personnel. Notably, the deal also aligns with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, as it incorporates offset commitments to promote the indigenous manufacturing of components.

Highlights:

• The deal includes 22 single-seat and 4 twin-seat Rafale M jets.

• Comprehensive fleet maintenance, logistics, and training support included.

• Alignment with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision through offset commitments for indigenous manufacturing.

Capabilities of the Rafale M Jets

The Rafale M is considered one of the most advanced naval fighters currently in service, with the French Navy being its sole operator at present. Designed for carrier-based operations, the Rafale M is equipped with several unique features that enable it to perform effectively in the demanding conditions of naval combat. It is fitted with reinforced landing gear from Safran Group, foldable wings, and a strengthened undercarriage, which allows it to withstand the rigors of deck landings and carrier-based operations, including the use of tailhooks.

The Indian Navy will deploy these advanced fighters on its aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, significantly enhancing India’s maritime power, especially in the strategically vital Indian Ocean region.

Highlights:

• Rafale M is one of the most advanced naval fighters currently in service.

• Equipped with reinforced landing gear, folding wings, and tailhooks for carrier operations.

• To be deployed on INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, boosting India’s maritime power.

Strategic Impact and Regional Considerations

The acquisition of Rafale M jets represents a major step in enhancing India’s naval capabilities and securing its maritime interests, especially in the strategically important Indian Ocean. Amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, this deal adds a layer of security and power projection for India’s defense forces. The enhanced capabilities of the Rafale M jets will strengthen India’s defense posture, particularly in terms of carrier-based operations, and will serve as a deterrent in the region.

Highlights:

• Strengthening of India’s defense posture in the Indian Ocean region.

• Deal viewed as a strategic move amid rising tensions with Pakistan.

• Enhanced power projection with advanced carrier-based Rafale M jets.