New Delhi: India and France have finalized an Inter-Governmental Agreement for the procurement of 26 Rafale Aircraft specifically tailored for the Indian Navy. The agreement, signed on Monday, marks a significant step in bolstering India’s naval aviation capabilities.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Indian Defence Ministry released a statement detailing the specifics of the acquisition, which includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater Rafale Aircraft. The comprehensive deal encompasses training, simulators, associated equipment, weapons, and performance-based logistics, further enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Navy.
In addition to the new aircraft, the agreement also covers additional equipment for the existing Rafale fleet of the Indian Air Force. This deal was formalized by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of Armed Forces of France Sebastien Lecornu.
The agreement emphasizes the transfer of technology, enabling the integration of indigenous weapons in India, aligning with New Delhi’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative for self-reliance. It also includes the establishment of a production facility for Rafale fuselage and maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities for aircraft engines, sensors, and weapons within India.
The initiative is expected to generate thousands of jobs and revenue for numerous Small and Medium Enterprises involved in the setup, production, and operation of these facilities. The Rafale-Marine, a carrier-borne combat-ready aircraft from France’s Dassault Aviation, is recognized for its operational capabilities in maritime environments.
By 2030, all aircraft are scheduled to be delivered, with crew training planned in both France and India. New Delhi anticipates that the acquisition of Rafale-Marine will significantly enhance joint operational capabilities, optimizing training and logistics for both the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force, which already operates 36 Rafale aircraft.