India and France Sign Agreement for 26 Rafale-M Naval Fighter Jets for Rs 63,000 Crores

New Delhi, April 28, 2025 — New Delhi and Paris have signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA). This agreement provides a significant boost to India’s naval aviation strength. It covers the acquisition of 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy. The agreement includes 22 single-seater variants. It also includes four twin-seater variants. Additionally, it provides training modules, simulators, and associated equipment. Weapons systems and performance-based logistics support are also covered. It also includes provisions to upgrade the existing Rafale fleet operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and France’s Minister for the Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, formalized the deal. This occurred at a ceremony held at Nausena Bhawan in New Delhi. Senior defence officials attended the event. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh was among them. They witnessed the exchange of the signed documents related to the aircraft and weapons supply protocols.

Aligned with India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative, the agreement encompasses significant technology transfer components. This includes the integration of indigenous weaponry. It also involves establishing domestic production lines for Rafale fuselages. Additionally, creating maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities for engines, sensors, and weapons within India is part of the plan. The move is expected to generate thousands of jobs. It will spur growth among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) involved in the setup and operations of these facilities.

Built by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale-Marine is a carrier-based fighter renowned for its combat performance in maritime environments. Deliveries are scheduled to be completed by 2030, with Indian crews receiving training both in France and domestically.

The Rafale-M shares considerable commonality with the IAF’s Rafale jets. This procurement will enhance interoperability between India’s air and naval forces. This induction is set to significantly strengthen India’s naval air capabilities. It will enhance the operational potency of its aircraft carriers. This will bolster the country’s overall maritime security posture.