The purchase of 26 Rafale-M fighter aircraft, valued at about USD 7.6 billion, has been finalised by India and France. When the French Defence Minister visits India in April 2025, it is anticipated that the formal agreement will be inked.
By replacing the outdated MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB aircraft now flown by the Navy’s INAS 300 “White Tigers” and INAS 303 “Black Panthers” squadrons, the Rafale-M agreement significantly expands the capabilities of the Indian Navy. The Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, will carry the new aircraft.
Four Rafale B dual-seat trainers and 22 Rafale-M carrier-based aircraft are anticipated to be part of the deal. The Rafale B trainers will be utilised for land-based training; they are not intended for carrier operations.
India’s larger efforts to improve its maritime attack capabilities, especially in reaction to China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean Region, include this procurement. The agreement also covers performance-based logistical support, crew training programs, and the acquisition of cutting-edge missiles like Meteor and Exocet.
Rafale producer Dassault Aviation is thinking of setting up a final assembly line in India to accommodate upcoming orders and boost the country’s “Make in India” campaign.
This action is a reflection of the expanding strategic partnership between France and India, which has been strengthened by prior defence cooperation, such as the 2016 contract to supply the Indian Air Force with 36 Rafale fighters.
It is anticipated that the first Rafale-M aircraft will be delivered within 37 months of the contract being signed, with deliveries starting by May 2028.