France

France’s Rafale adds laser-guided rockets to counter Shahed-type drones

France’s Rafale adds laser-guided rockets to counter Shahed-type drones

France has developed a new, lower-cost anti-drone option for its Rafale fighter jets after operational experience in the Middle East highlighted the challenge of dealing with Shahed-type drones. The French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) has successfully integrated 68-mm laser-guided rockets onto the Rafale under a new anti-drone capability called LADAC. The system combines the Rafale’s radar, the Talios laser-designation pod and guided rockets to detect, track, designate and engage drones. The capability was developed at speed. According to the French Defence Ministry, the contract was awarded in December 2025 under an “operational urgency” procedure, with the first successful live-fire trials…
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India and France Sign Agreement for 26 Rafale-M Naval Fighter Jets for Rs 63,000 Crores

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,…
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India Approves ₹63,000 Crore Rafale M Purchase from France to Strengthen Naval Aviation

India Approves ₹63,000 Crore Rafale M Purchase from France to Strengthen Naval Aviation

In a major development for India’s defense capabilities, the government has approved the acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets from France, in a deal estimated at over ₹63,000 crore (approximately $7.3 billion). The agreement was finalized under a government-to-government framework. It is set to be signed soon. This follows the green light from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The Indian Navy will receive 22 single-seat and 4 twin-seat variants of the carrier-based Rafale M aircraft. Deliveries are expected to begin by late 2029 and will continue until 2031. The jets will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s aerial combat…
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India Nears Rafale-M Fighter Jet Deal with France to Strengthen Naval Air Fleet

India Nears Rafale-M Fighter Jet Deal with France to Strengthen Naval Air Fleet

After a historic year of defence procurements, India is poised to initiate another significant military acquisition in FY 2025–26. Among the major deals in the pipeline is the much-anticipated agreement with France for 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets. This agreement is a critical addition to bolster the Indian Navy’s air power. Sources confirm that the deal is in its final stages. It is awaiting clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Final Approval Expected Soon The proposed government-to-government deal includes 22 single-seat Rafale-M fighters and 4 twin-seat trainer variants. Once the agreement is…
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