India Signs ₹64,000 Crore Deal with France for 26 Rafale Marine Fighter Jets
Published: April 28, 2025
On April 28, 2025, India and France finalized a landmark defense agreement valued at approximately ₹64,000 crore (₹63,000 crore), marking one of India's largest-ever defense procurements. Under this deal, India will acquire 26 Rafale Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets from Dassault Aviation, comprising 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater aircraft. The first delivery is expected by 2028, with all jets operational by 2030. These advanced aircraft will be deployed on India's indigenous aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, replacing the aging MiG-29K fleet.
The agreement also includes provisions for local manufacturing of Rafale fuselages, engine maintenance, and other components in India, fostering domestic defense capabilities. Training for Indian Navy personnel will be conducted in both France and India.
Key Specifications of Rafale-M:
- Combat Range: 1,850 km
- Ferry Range: 3,700 km
- Maximum Altitude: 50,000 feet
- Weight: 15,000 kg
- Fuel Capacity: 11,202 kg
- Speed: Up to 2,205 km/h
- Armament: 14 hardpoints capable of carrying various air-to-air, air-to-ground, and nuclear weapons
- Capabilities: Advanced avionics, stealth features, and aerial refueling capability
The Rafale-M's impressive range and payload capacity make it superior to China's J-10 and J-15, and Pakistan's JF-17 and F-16, which are primarily fourth-generation aircraft. The Rafale-M is classified as a 4.5-generation fighter jet, offering enhanced combat effectiveness.
This acquisition is part of India's broader strategy to modernize its military, reduce dependence on Russian-origin equipment, and strengthen defense ties with France, its second-largest arms supplier. The deal is also expected to generate thousands of jobs and stimulate the domestic defense industry.