Although 26 Rafale-Ms are already on order, New Delhi has now formally sought France for 31 more, potentially increasing the fleet to 57 aircraft, as India’s naval aviation enters a crucial transitional decade.In April 2025, India paid €7.4 billion to equip INS Vikrant with 22 single-seat Rafale-Ms and 4 two-seat Rafale-B aircraft.
The planned delivery period is 2029–2031. The INS Vikrant, whose deck and lift proportions are suitable with the French fighter, will be the primary operating base for these aircraftDespite its well-known flaws, the MiG-29K remains necessary aboard INS Vikramaditya because of its Russian-origin design.Gathering Aviation Equipment
Despite its well-known flaws, the MiG-29K remains necessary aboard INS Vikramaditya because of its Russian-origin design.
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India paid $2.29 billion for 37 MiG-29Ks and 8 MiG-29KUBs between 2004 and 2010. After multiple losses, including at least five accidents in four years, about forty are still in operation.
Poor availability rates were caused by persistent problems with engines, airframes, and flight controls, as noted by the Comptroller and Auditor General. The Rafale-M induction is essential since every lost aircraft lowers the Navy’s margin for maintaining carrier air wingsThe retirement of the MiG-29K, which was originally scheduled for 2035, has been pushed out to 2040. The Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF), India’s domestic carrier-borne fighter, has fallen behind schedule, necessitating this extension. It is presently anticipated that it will make its first flight in 2032, and serial production is unlikely to begin before 2038. Even yet, years of testing, naval qualification, and ramp-up will be necessary before the TEDBF completely replaces the Russian aircraft.
If India’s request for 31 more Rafale-Ms is granted, the fleet will number 57. This is consistent with the Navy’s initial need for Multi-Role Carrier-Borne Fighters in order to maintain operations on several carriers.
In order to guaranty constant availability, the increased fleet would offer operational deployment, training, attrition reserves, and maintenance cycles. If finished, India would become the world’s largest operator of the naval variant, surpassing France, which now has roughly 41 Rafale-Ms.Compared to the MiG-29K, the Rafale-M has more sophisticated capabilities. Superior detection, strike, and survivability are provided by its SCALP cruise missiles, Meteor beyond-visual-range missiles, and RBE2 AESA radar.
It is highly suited for carrier operations thanks to structural modifications such strengthened airframes, arrestor hooks, and reinforced landing gear. India’s air defense and maritime attack capabilities in the Indian Ocean region will be greatly improved by these features.Examining Travel Maps
Long-term planning for INS Vishal, India’s second indigenous carrier, is also linked to the expansion. The availability of operating squadrons upon commissioning is ensured by coordinating aircraft procurement with carrier construction timetables.
With dedicated squadrons for every ship while maintaining training and maintenance capability, this strategy demonstrates India’s intention to retain a “force-in-being” posture.
With dedicated squadrons for every ship while maintaining training and maintenance capability, this strategy demonstrates India’s intention to retain a “force-in-being” posture.
Opportunities for India are also reshaped by France’s own naval aviation advancements, such as the SCAF program. India’s potential to become the biggest Rafale-M operator highlights its increasing significance in Indo-Pacific maritime security, while cooperation with Dassault Aviation strengthens strategic ties.Trends in the Arms Industry
