NEW DELHI: The Governments of India and France have signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for the procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine aircraft for the Indian Navy.
The deal, signed today at Nausena Bhawan, New Delhi, covers 22 single-seater and four twin-seater jets, along with training, simulators, associated equipment, weapons, and performance-based logistics support.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and French Minister of Armed Forces Mr. Sebastien Lecornu formalized the agreement, with the signed documents exchanged in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh.
Aligned with the Governmentโs Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the agreement includes a Transfer of Technology provision for integrating indigenous weapons.
It also plans for the establishment of a Rafale fuselage production facility and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities for aircraft engines, sensors, and weapons in India โ an initiative expected to generate thousands of jobs and boost revenue for numerous MSMEs.
Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale-Marine is a carrier-borne, combat-ready aircraft with proven maritime operational capabilities.
Deliveries are scheduled to be completed by 2030, with crew training to be conducted both in France and India.
With significant commonality to the Rafale aircraft already operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF), the Rafale-Marine will enhance joint operational capabilities and optimize training and logistics. Its induction will serve as a potent force multiplier, significantly strengthening the Indian Navyโs aircraft carriers and enhancing Indiaโs air power at sea.
