New Delhi: New Delhi, April 28, 2025 — In a significant boost to its maritime capabilities, India is all set to sign a monumental Rs 63,000 crore deal with France for the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets. The deal, expected to be finalized today, will strengthen the Indian Navy’s fleet and enhance its defense capabilities in the Indian Ocean.
The Rafale-M, regarded as one of the most advanced and capable fighter jets in its class, is currently operated exclusively by the French Navy. The new acquisition will be deployed aboard India’s aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, replacing the aging MiG-29K fleet.
The agreement includes 22 single-seater Rafale-M jets and four twin-seater trainer variants. Deliveries are expected to begin in a few years, with the entire fleet slated for completion by 2031. This deal marks a critical milestone in India’s efforts to modernize its naval air power.
The signing ceremony will take place today, with Defence Secretary officials and representatives from Dassault Aviation, the French aerospace company, in attendance. While the French Defence Minister had been expected to be present, he will not be in India for the event.
In addition to strengthening India’s maritime forces, the deal includes provisions for the integration of Indian-made missiles, such as the Astra air-to-air missile, into the Rafale-M jets. This aligns with India’s goals of enhancing self-reliance in defense technology.
This agreement further cements the growing strategic ties between India and France, opening doors for potential co-production agreements and technology transfer in the future. With the Indian Air Force already operating 36 Rafale fighter jets, the addition of these 26 Rafale-M aircraft will significantly boost India’s fleet of 4.5-generation fighters, bringing the total Rafale jets in India to 62.
The deal was approved by India’s Cabinet Committee on Security on April 9, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking it as one of the largest defense procurements in Indian history.
